Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5984

Introduced
1/12/26  
Refer
1/12/26  
Report Pass
1/30/26  
Engrossed
2/12/26  
Refer
2/14/26  
Report Pass
2/24/26  

Caption

AN ACT Relating to regulation of artificial intelligence companion chatbots;

Impact

If passed, SB5984 would introduce new guidelines and standards for developers and companies creating companion chatbots, compelling them to adhere to practices that ensure user safety and data privacy. This is significant as it would not only shape the landscape of AI technology development within the state but also influence the broader market by setting a precedent for how such technologies can be regulated. Proponents anticipate that the bill would foster public trust in AI applications by ensuring transparency and accountability from developers.

Summary

SB5984 is a legislative effort aimed at establishing a regulatory framework specifically for artificial intelligence companion chatbots. The bill seeks to address the growing prevalence and influence of AI technologies in everyday life, particularly focusing on aspects of safety, transparency, and ethical use. By creating a structured approach to the regulation of these chatbots, the bill aims to protect users from potential harm or misinformation that could arise from unregulated interactions with such technologies.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB5984 include debates about the balance between innovation and regulation. Critics argue that over-regulation may stifle technological advancement, potentially placing unnecessary burdens on developers that could inhibit creativity and market competitiveness. Meanwhile, supporters maintain that without proper regulation, the risks to users—including issues of data misuse and ethical dilemmas—could outweigh the benefits and enable abuses in the deployment of AI technologies.

Companion Bills

WA HB2225

Crossfiled AN ACT Relating to regulation of artificial intelligence companion chatbots;

Previously Filed As

WA HB2225

AN ACT Relating to regulation of artificial intelligence companion chatbots;

WA HB2503

AN ACT Relating to artificial intelligence training data;

WA HB2157

AN ACT Relating to regulating high-risk artificial intelligence system development, deployment, and use;

WA SB6120

Regulating high-risk artificial intelligence system development, deployment, and use.

WA HB1833

AN ACT Relating to creating an artificial intelligence grant program to promote the economic development of innovative uses of artificial intelligence;

WA S1344

Companion Artificial Intelligence Chatbots

WA HB1168

Increasing transparency in artificial intelligence.

WA SB6284

Providing consumer protections for artificial intelligence systems.

WA HB2667

Providing consumer protections for artificial intelligence systems.

WA LB642

Adopt the Artificial Intelligence Consumer Protection Act

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.