A coalition of youth advocates, researchers, and policy experts today released a comprehensive Model Policy Framework for Regulating Human-like AI Systems, providing state and federal policymakers with a blueprint for protecting young people from emotionally manipulative AI companion applications.
The framework, developed by the Young People's Alliance, Public Citizen, and a coalition of partners including researcher Jonathan Haidt, addresses the unique risks posed by AI systems designed to simulate human-like emotional connections with users.
"AI companion apps represent a fundamentally new category of risk to young people," said Sam Hiner, Executive Director of the Young People's Alliance. "These systems are specifically engineered to exploit human psychology and create dependency. Our framework provides policymakers with concrete tools to address these dangers."
The Human-like AI Policy Framework includes the following key provisions:
DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS - Clear and prominent disclosure that users are interacting with AI, not a human - Regular reminders of the AI nature of the interaction - Prohibition of AI systems claiming to have human emotions or experiences
MINOR PROTECTIONS - Age verification requirements before minors can access AI companion services - Parental consent and notification requirements - Prohibition of AI companions designed to form romantic or sexual relationships with known minors - Limits on manipulative engagement techniques targeting young users
SAFETY STANDARDS - Required protocols for detecting and responding to expressions of self-harm or suicidal ideation - Prohibition of AI systems encouraging dangerous, illegal, or unhealthy behaviors - Mandatory safety assessments before products can be marketed to minors - Reporting requirements for serious incidents
ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES - Civil liability for AI companion operators whose products cause harm through negligent design - Regulatory oversight and enforcement mechanisms - Data transparency requirements - User complaint and remedy procedures
The coalition is making the framework available to state legislators and members of Congress, and will provide technical assistance to jurisdictions seeking to implement these protections.
"We've seen states lead the way on social media safety, and we expect the same pattern with AI companion regulation," said Ava Smithing, Advocacy Director of the Young People's Alliance. "This framework gives policymakers a head start."
Read the full release here.
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About Young People's Alliance: Young People's Alliance is a bipartisan, Gen Z-led nonprofit with 3,000+ members across 78+ campuses in 15 states. The organization is focused on creating a new American Dream through advocacy on creating opportunity, affordability, and community for young people.
Contact: press@youngpeoplesalliance.org