Observed Signal · Sep 11, 2026 · Regulation · Source: PocketGamer.biz · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Negative
Privacy Market: California Enacts Social Media Curbs for Children Under 16
California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a package of 13 bills aimed at protecting children from addictive social media features and AI companion chatbots. The legislation includes Assembly Bill 1709, which prohibits children under 16 from being exposed to features designed to maximize engagement, such as infinite-scroll feeds and algorithmic autoplay. Another measure bans the manufacture and sale of toys containing companion chatbots for four years, while related legislation requires parental controls on chatbot programs. The package also strengthens online privacy protections for minors and expands criminal sanctions for for AI-generated child sexual abuse material. Critics have raised concerns about privacy, free speech, and young people's internet access. California joins several other states in adopting measures targeting children's social media use.
Major regulatory action in California affecting social media and AI chatbot features for minors, with significant implications for AdTech platforms and privacy.
Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- California Governor Gavin Newsman signed 13 bills focused on safeguarding young people online.
- Assembly Bill 1709 prohibits children under 16 from being exposed to engagement-maximizing features like infinite-scroll feeds and algorithmic autoplay.
- A separate measure bans the manufacture and sale of toys containing companion chatbots for four years.
- The package includes 'Adam's Law', named after a 16-year-old who died by suicide in April 2025.
- California joins states including Utah, Arkansas, Louisiana, Ohio, Texas, Florida and New York in adopting similar measures.
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