A US lawmaker has proposed the Addictive Design Act to prevent AI chatbot companies from offering features that could lead to emotional dependence and addiction in minors. The legislation, introduced by Democratic Representative Becca Balint of Vermont, aims to penalize companies that create chatbots with addictive design elements for young users. Many teenagers are turning to AI chatbots for mental health support, but most of these chatbots lack appropriate responses during mental health crises.
The bill would prohibit companies from providing minors access to chatbots with features that promote addiction, emotional attachment, or compulsive use. These features include typing bubbles, avatars, storing personal information, and requiring further engagement or payment to continue conversations. Violating companies could face fines of up to $5,000 per affected minor. Additionally, the legislation proposes establishing a task force to address mental health risks associated with chatbot use among young people and allocates funds for research and outreach programs.
The proposed legislation also mandates that companies using age-verification systems minimize data collection and delete it within 24 hours. Rachel Madley from the Center for Health and Democracy emphasized that AI chatbots should not foster emotional dependence in young users. Dr. Marketa M. Wills of the American Psychiatric Association highlighted the importance of evidence-based AI in mental health care and stressed that AI chatbots should not replace traditional patient-physician relationships.
Representatives Chris Deluzio, Tom Suozzi, and Bonnie Watson Coleman are co-sponsors of the bill, which has garnered support from various mental health and consumer advocacy organizations.
