SB243 – Companion Chatbots

CALawState

Date Passed

10/13/2025

Effective Date

1/1/2026

Summary

Requires operators of companion‑chatbot platforms to clearly disclose AI, implement protocols to prevent suicidal ideation/self‑harm content, and publish details of those protocols; establishes annual reporting to the Office of Suicide Prevention starting 2027.

Healthcare Implications

Behavioral‑health and wellness chatbots used by providers/plans must add conspicuous AI disclosures, suicide‑prevention safeguards, and reporting. Providers and plans should adjust oversight, auditing, and incident‑response workflows to align with the statute.

Impact Level

High

Keywords

Safety & Risk; Clinical Quality & Efficacy; Transparency & Governance; Equity & Bias

Stakeholders

Patients & Public; Providers & Health Systems; Regulators & Government