WA HB2225 – AI Companion Chatbots

WALawState

Date Passed

3/24/2026

Effective Date

1/1/2027

Summary

Regulates artificial intelligence companion chatbots by requiring user notice that the user is interacting with artificial output, protections for minors, and protocols for detecting and responding to suicidal ideation or self-harm.

Healthcare Implications

Applies to consumer-facing companion bots that may be used for emotional support or mental-health-adjacent interactions. Developers and health-facing platforms should add disclosure, escalation, and minor-protection workflows to reduce risk.

Impact Level

High

Keywords

Safety & Risk; Transparency & Governance

Stakeholders

Patients & Public; Developers & Vendors; Regulators & Government