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With the increase of artificial intelligence (AI) around the country, it’s no surprise that states are taking action to protect kids and teens. In California, the uptick in the use and consumption of the technology has prompted a crackdown, especially after a student's death linked to its use.
CBN reports that the Law is called Adam's Law, named after 16-year-old Adam Raine, who died by suicide in 2025 following alleged encouragement from ChatGPT. While ChatGPT may not be the only cause to blame, Raine’s father, Matt, explained that the technology consumption was a slow fade with sickening results.
"What began as a homework helper gradually turned itself into a confidant, and then a suicide coach. Within a few months, ChatGPT became Adam's closest companion. Always available. Always validating. And insisting that it knew Adam better than anyone else," Raine told lawmakers.
According to IVPress Online, the law was permanently signed into legislation this past Thursday by Governor Gavin Newsom, “establishing the nation’s strictest digital protections for children interacting with artificial intelligence companion chatbots, positioning California as a regulatory trailblazer on generative tech risks.” Senate Bill 1119 imposes safety mandates on technology companies developing conversational AI in hopes of preventing cases like Raine’s from happening again.
Commenting on the loss of students like Raine and the passing of the law, Newsome added, “Our children’s safety deserves to be at the center of every conversation about technology. Today’s legislation makes clear that California will not stand by while unregulated technology puts our children at risk. Innovation comes with responsibility.”
To date, California is one of the few states known for taking a bold stance on social issues. Beyond emerging technology, social media addiction, strong privacy agreements and transparency measures, they were also the first state to produce and advocate for child online safety protections around AI companion chatbots.
While Adam was an early user and adopter of artificial intelligence, power is knowledge. “Us parents did not understand the dangers back then," Raine’s father said at a news conference. "Now, we are all becoming more aware of the dangers of AI companionship and the need for our government to act to protect our children."
Amber Ginter is a teacher-turned-author who loves Jesus, her husband Ben, and granola. Growing up Amber looked for faith and mental health resources and found none. Today, she offers hope for young Christians struggling with mental illness that goes beyond simply reading your Bible and praying more. Because you can love Jesus and still suffer from anxiety. You can download her top faith and mental health resources for free to help navigate books, podcasts, videos, and influencers from a faith lens perspective. Visit her website at amberginter.com.
Originally published September 17, 2026.
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