New York Governor signs bills to curb risky AI chatbots and secure smart baby monitors

Governor Kathy Hochul signed two bills on Oct 28, 2026 that bar AI chatbots from harmful interactions with minors and demand security safeguards for internet‑connected baby monitors. The chatbot rules forbid any bot from simulating romantic relationships, fostering emotional dependence, or encouraging self‑harm among children. The baby‑monitor provision obliges manufacturers to add technical protections that stop unauthorised users from accessing audio or video feeds. Hochul posted on social media, “As a mother and grandmother, I believe kids deserve to be kids, without dangerous AI chatbots putting their safety and mental health at risk…Big Tech, you’re on notice.” The legislation was announced as part of New York’s broader effort to shield young users from emerging digital risks. State officials say the measures will be enforced by the Department of Consumer Protection, which will review compliance and may levy penalties for violations. The new rules apply to any AI service that can be accessed by minors in the state, regardless of where the provider is based. Manufacturers of smart baby monitors must certify that their devices meet the new security standards before they can be sold in New York. The governor’s office expects the laws to set a model for other states grappling with similar technology concerns. ## Context