Alabama 2026 Regular Session

Alabama House Bill HB324

Introduced
1/22/26  

Caption

Artificial intelligence; age verification systems required for chatbots, safeguard protocols required, therapy chatbot requirements established, private right of action and enforcement provided for

Impact

If enacted, HB324 would significantly alter the framework of state laws regarding artificial intelligence and the protections afforded to minors. The bill would establish clear responsibilities for AI chatbot providers to verify the age of users and impose restrictions on the functionalities accessible to minors. Additionally, it limits the type and volume of data that can be collected from users, aiming to create a safer online environment. The implications of implementing these regulations could lead to a reassessment of compliance strategies for technology companies, as they would be obligated to develop and maintain specific systems to adhere to these new laws.

Summary

House Bill 324 introduces regulations surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots, particularly focusing on safeguarding minors from potential misuse. The bill mandates that deployers of AI chatbots implement a reliable age verification process to ensure that individuals using these platforms are of an appropriate age. It includes provisions prohibiting access to AI chatbots with human-like features for minors and requires that alternative versions of these platforms be provided for young users. This legislative effort reflects growing concerns about the implications of AI technology on vulnerable populations, especially children.

Contention

There are likely to be points of contention surrounding the bill, particularly concerning the feasibility and reliability of the age verification processes it mandates. Opponents may argue that the requirements could infringe upon user privacy and raise concerns about the potential overreach of government regulation into the realm of technology. Additionally, discussions may arise regarding the balance between protective measures for minors and the need for accessibility to advanced technologies. Stakeholders, including technology companies and consumer advocates, may engage in debates about the efficacy of these provisions and their impact on innovation and user experience.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AL HB75

Wheelchairs; establishing requirements for repair

AL SB187

Consumer protection, app store providers and developers required to take certain actions related to age verification and parental consent, Attorney General authorized to bring action for violations as deceptive trade practice, parents authorized to bring civil action

AL HB317

Consumer protection, app store providers and developers required to take certain actions related to age verification and parental consent, Attorney General authorized to bring action for violations as deceptive trade practice, parents authorized to bring civil action

AL HB276

Consumer protection, requires social media platforms terminate certain accounts, display notifications, prohibit certain actions, use age verification, provide certain tools, remove certain content, penalties provided for violations

AL HB235

Social media, individuals under 16 years of age prohibited from creating accounts, age verification required, penalties for violations established

AL SB88

Expungement; hearing requirement further provided for

AL HB444

Vaccines; private schools and church schools required to accept religious exemptions to vaccine requirements, penalties provided

AL SB299

Stem cell therapy; permitted in certain circumstances, notice and consent requirements provided, exceptions provided, State Board of Medical Examiners required to adopt rules

AL SB121

Public works contracts; advertising requirements, further provided

AL HB252

Class IV municipalities, accounting requirements further provided for

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CA SB420

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CA AB1137

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CA SB524

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CA AB1651

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CA AB316

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CA SB579

Mental health and artificial intelligence working group.

AZ HB2592

Artificial intelligence; state agencies; rules