SB 796: AI Companion Chatbots & Minors Act
🟢 THREAT LEVEL: NONE
BILL SNAPSHOT
Bill Number: SB 796
Bill Patron: Sen. Tara A. Durant (R)
Bill Area: Child Protection / Technology Regulation
Who This Bill Affects: Technology companies, AI chatbot operators, minors, parents, & online users across Virginia
QUICK SUMMARY
SB 796 establishes the AI Companion Chatbots & Minors Act to protect children as artificial intelligence technologies rapidly evolve. The bill requires AI companion chatbot operators to (1) verify that users are at least 18 years old; (2) prioritize user well-being; and (3) make reasonable efforts to notify law enforcement if they become aware that a user faces an imminent risk of death or serious physical injury.
The Attorney General is authorized to seek injunctions and civil penalties for violations, and parents of harmed minors may bring civil actions if violations occur. Overall, SB 796 creates clear guardrails to protect minors and consumers from potential harm caused by AI companion chatbots.
RALLY ANALYSIS
SB 796 is a forward-looking, protective measure designed to address real risks emerging from AI technologies.
AI companion chatbots are increasingly sophisticated and widely used. Without safeguards, minors may be exposed to inappropriate content, manipulation, emotional dependency, or even dangerous interactions.
This bill:
- Places responsibility on technology companies to verify age
- Requires platforms to prioritize user safety
- Creates accountability mechanisms
- Empowers parents
- Ensures law enforcement notification when imminent danger is identified
SB 796 sets reasonable, common-sense guardrails to ensure AI development remains innovative, while aligning with public safety and child protection.
In a digital era where technology evolves faster than regulation, Virginia is taking proactive leadership.
WHY THIS MATTERS
- Protects minors from harmful AI interactions
- Establishes clear accountability standards for tech platforms
- Requires action when life-threatening risks are identified
- Strengthens parental rights and legal recourse
- Positions Virginia as a leader in responsible AI policy
- Balances innovation with public safety
RALLY VERDICT: ✓ STRONG SUPPORT
SB 796 prioritizes children and families amid rapidly advancing artificial intelligence.
Rally Virginia proudly supports legislation that protects minors, strengthens accountability for technology companies, and ensures innovation does not come at the expense of safety.
Virginia families deserve protection in both the physical and digital worlds — and SB 796 delivers.
RALLY RADAR — THREAT LEVEL LEGEND
⚫ CRITICAL THREAT — Immediate and severe harm; must be stopped
🔴 HIGH THREAT — Serious risk to safety, liberty, or governance
🟡 MODERATE THREAT — Concerning but limited scope
🟢 LOW THREAT — Minimal impact or symbolic
