OpenAI backs california legislation to safeguard teen AI use

OpenAI has endorsed California Senate Bill 1119, which aims to implement safeguards for young people using AI while ensuring they retain access to beneficial tools. The bill, supported by OpenAI, aligns with the company’s principles on teen safety, as outlined by CEO Sam Altman last year. With no federal action on youth AI safety, California is positioned to set a benchmark for this issue. OpenAI praised Governor Gavin Newsom and legislators for their leadership, urging him to sign the bill into law. SB 1119 mandates automatic protections for users aged 13 to 17, combining accountability with safety measures. The legislation recognizes AI’s distinct role from social media, focusing on educational and creative uses. OpenAI’s ChatGPT for Teens, launched recently, includes features like Quizzes and Study mode, developed with educators, to support learning while enforcing safeguards. The platform automatically assigns users under 18 to this version, ensuring built-in protections. OpenAI has also integrated parental controls, age prediction, and safety guidelines into its Model Spec, prohibiting harmful interactions with teens. The company emphasizes balancing safety with learning, advocating for continued collaboration to refine the framework as technology evolves.