California Senator Steve Padilla (D) has proposed legislation aimed at placing a four-year moratorium on the production and sale of children’s toys equipped with AI chatbot functionalities for individuals under the age of 18. The intent behind this bill, designated as SB 867, is to grant safety regulators the necessary time to establish comprehensive guidelines ensuring the protection of children against potentially harmful interactions with AI technology.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Senator Padilla stated, “While AI tools may play a significant role in our future, the immediate risks they present necessitate decisive action to safeguard our children.” He emphasized that existing safety regulations related to this technology are still in their formative stages and must evolve in line with the rapid advancements in AI capabilities. A pause in the commercialization of chatbot-integrated toys is deemed essential for developing suitable safety frameworks.
This legislative move aligns with broader national discussions on AI regulation, particularly following President Trump’s recent executive order urging federal agencies to contest state AI laws, while allowing exceptions for those connected to child safety. The bill’s introduction comes on the heels of notable incidents where children experienced severe emotional distress after extensive interactions with chatbots, prompting legislative action.
In addition to SB 867, Senator Padilla previously collaborated on California’s SB 243, which mandates chatbot operators to adopt safety measures aimed at protecting children and other vulnerable users. Although the integration of chatbots in children’s toys is not yet widespread, instances of concerning interactions have already emerged. A report by consumer advocacy group PIRG Education Fund identified toys like Kumma, an AI-enabled bear, which could be manipulated to discuss inappropriate topics. Similarly, NBC News highlighted that Miiloo, an AI toy from Chinese manufacturer Miriat, occasionally reflected ideologies aligned with the Chinese Communist Party.
In 2025, OpenAI and Mattel had plans to launch an AI-enhanced product; however, the release has been postponed indefinitely without clarification on future availability. As Senator Padilla aptly stated, “Our children cannot be used as lab rats for Big Tech to experiment on,” underscoring the critical need for regulatory frameworks in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI technology.
