119-HR-6489 Journalist Public Summary

Headline Summary

A House proposal would set basic safety and transparency rules for AI chatbots used by kids and teens, including clear “I’m a bot” notices, crisis‑hotline info for suicide‑related chats, and safeguards around long use and sensitive content.

What It Does

According to the draft text provided here, the SAFE BOTs Act would: require chatbots to tell minors they are AI and not people; prohibit chatbots from claiming to be licensed professionals; surface suicide and crisis resources when the topic comes up; prompt a break after three hours of continuous use; and require policies addressing sexual content harmful to minors, gambling, and illegal drugs/alcohol. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) would enforce the rules, and state attorneys general could also bring cases. It also directs a four‑year NIH study on how chatbots affect minors’ mental health. (Note: Congress.gov lists the bill as introduced; official GPO text posting was still pending as of December 8, 2025.) [1]Library of Congress — H.R. 6489 — Congress.gov overview[2]Library of Congress — H.R. 6489 — Text status note (text not yet received)

Who’s For It

• Rep. Erin Houchin (R‑IN), the sponsor. [1]Library of Congress — H.R. 6489 — Congress.gov overview
• As of December 9, 2025, no cosponsors are listed on Congress.gov. [3]Library of Congress — H.R. 6489 — All Information (Except Text)

Who’s Against It

• No formal opposition specific to H.R. 6489 is recorded on Congress.gov as of now. [3]Library of Congress — H.R. 6489 — All Information (Except Text)
• Debates around similar kids‑and‑AI proposals have raised concerns about over‑reach, free‑speech risks, and clashes with state laws; for example, recent state and federal efforts on chatbot rules prompted criticism and mixed reactions. [4]Associated Press — California governor vetoes bill to restrict kids' access to…[5]United States Senate — Sen. Ruben Gallego press release on GUARD Act (kids and…

What’s Next

Status: Introduced December 5, 2025, and referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. Next steps could include subcommittee hearings, amendments (“markups”), and House floor consideration before any Senate action. [1]Library of Congress — H.R. 6489 — Congress.gov overview