Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2195

Introduced
1/23/26  

Caption

Creates additional safety features for AI companion technology that include addressing suicidal ideation, potential physical harm or financial harm to others expressed by a user. It also requires notification the AI companion does not have human emotions.

Impact

If enacted, S2195 would notably alter the landscape of AI technology governance in the state by imposing mandatory safety protocols. This could set a precedent for how such technologies are regulated on a broader scale. The bill mandates that operators of AI companions must inform users regularly that these systems are not human and incapable of emotion, which highlights the need for clear communication around AI limitations. This regulation could lead to enhanced trust among users regarding the digital tools they interact with.

Summary

Senate Bill S2195 proposes new regulations concerning artificial intelligence (AI) companion technologies within Rhode Island, focusing on user safety and ethical standards. The bill requires that any AI companion utilized must include specific protocols to address cases of suicidal ideation, physical harm, or financial harm expressed by users. The intent is to ensure that such AI systems can effectively assist users in crisis situations by providing notifications and referrals to appropriate crisis services, such as helplines.

Contention

The introduction of S2195 has sparked discussions regarding the potential implications of oversight over AI technologies, with proponents arguing for increased safety measures, and critics cautioning against excessive regulation that could stifle innovation. Notable points of contention may arise from the enforcement mechanisms outlined, which empower individuals to file lawsuits if they experience harm due to noncompliance with the bill's stipulations. The balance between consumer protection and innovation in AI development remains a key focus as stakeholders assess the bill's provisions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S0470

Amends the current law in order that a health insurer would not require a physician, to participate in "capitation," or any other "alternative payment model" that creates a financial incentive for a physician to limit medically necessary care.

RI H5851

Amends the current law in order that a health insurer would not require a physician, to participate in "capitation," or any other "alternative payment model" that creates a financial incentive for a physician to limit medically necessary care.

RI S0791

Prohibits insurance companies from paying a rate that is less than the approved Medicaid rate set by the executive office of health and human services.

RI S0714

Creates the home-fit dwelling units act to apply to all new construction of covered dwelling units to incorporate design features that provide safe and convenient use of to the greatest extent feasible, regardless of age or physical ability.

RI H5621

Prohibits insurance companies from paying a rate that is less than the approved Medicaid rate set by the executive office of health and human services.

RI H5268

Creates the home-fit dwelling units act to apply to all new construction of covered dwelling units to incorporate design features that provide safe and convenient use of to the greatest extent feasible, regardless of age or physical ability.

RI H5862

Requires insurance companies to prove that a healthcare service or procedure is not medically necessary.

RI S0385

Impose requirements and actions that certain electric distribution and gas distribution companies must meet prior to implementing rate changes.

RI H5577

Impose requirements and actions that certain electric distribution and gas distribution companies must meet prior to implementing rate changes.

RI H5106

Provides that any rate increase with respect to electric distribution companies would be no greater than the increase in the Consumer Price Index or 5.5%, whichever is greater, unless there is approval of a higher rate by the general assembly.

Similar Bills

OR SB1546

Relating to artificial intelligence companions.

HI SB3001

Relating To Artificial Intelligence.

HI HB1782

Relating To Artificial Intelligence For The Protection Of Minors.

HI SB2788

Relating To Artificial Intelligence For The Protection Of Minors.

ME LD2162

An Act to Regulate and Prevent Children's Access to Artificial Intelligence Chatbots with Human-like Features and Social Artificial Intelligence Companions

LA HB734

Creates a consumer bill of rights regarding artificial intelligence

RI H7350

Creates additional safety features for AI companion technology that include addressing suicidal ideation, potential physical harm or financial harm to others expressed by a user. It also requires notification the AI companion does not have human emotions.

NJ A4732

Requires artificial intelligence companion operators to provide notifications that users are not communicating with human.