Washington State Signs First-in-Nation AI Chatbot Safety Laws — Mandates Minor Protection and AI Disclosure

On March 24, 2026, Washington Governor Bob Ferguson signed two landmark AI bills into law — HB 2225 (AI Chatbot Safety Act) and HB 1170 (AI Disclosure Act), as reported by KNKX and KING5. These represent the first AI chatbot regulations in the United States.

HB 2225, the 'AI Chatbot Safety Act,' focuses particularly on protecting minors. It requires chatbot operators to clearly disclose that users are interacting with AI, and when users are known to be minors, operators must prevent the generation of explicit sexual content and prohibit the use of manipulative techniques. Additionally, the law mandates protocols for detecting and responding to signs of suicide or self-harm for all users regardless of age. The bill was sponsored by Representative Lisa Callan and Senator Lisa Wellman.

HB 1170, the 'AI Disclosure Act,' sponsored by Representative Clyde Shavers, requires AI operators to notify users when content has been generated or modified using AI. Governor Ferguson emphasized the law's importance, noting that even he finds it increasingly difficult to distinguish AI-generated content from authentic material.

The signing ceremony was attended by leaders from the Transparency Coalition (TCAI), who supported the push for AI transparency. These laws were enacted amid reports of young people taking their own lives following interactions with AI chatbots, providing concrete protective measures in response.

The legislation is expected to have significant ripple effects across other states and may serve as a precedent influencing federal-level AI regulation discussions. The balance between fostering innovation and protecting vulnerable populations, particularly children, will continue to be a central theme in AI governance nationwide.