New York: protecting minors from unsafe AI companion features

This dossier follows New York’s restrictions on AI companions for minors, their implementation timetable and operators’ obligations.

Last updated : 30 October 20262 key moments

Kathy Hochul in February 2022. Archive photograph, unrelated to the timing announcement. — Adam Schultz / The White House, Wikimedia Commons — public domain; cropped portrait, 3 February 2022.

Where things stand

As of 30 October 2026, Senator Kristen Gonzalez’s office says the signed version moves implementation to 1 June 2027, instead of 1 January cited in initial reports. The restrictions cover certain features offered to minors.

30 October 2026Reported information

New York AI companion law sponsor says implementation moves to June 2027

Senator Kristen Gonzalez’s office said on 30 October 2026 that the signed version of New York’s AI companion law for minors moves its effective date to 1 June 2027. Initial reports had cited 1 January.

Archive portrait of Kathy Hochul — Kathy Hochul in February 2022. Archive photograph, unrelated to the timing announcement. — Adam Schultz / The White House, Wikimedia Commons — public domain; cropped portrait, 3 February 2022.

The statement says the additional time allows companies to comply with the legislation Kathy Hochul signed on 28 October. This clarification updates the timetable previously presented in this dossier.

The law targets features including responses simulating a human identity or personal relationship with a minor, encouragement of self-harm and sexual content. The 30 October announcement clarifies implementation timing; it does not mean those restrictions are already in force.

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28 October 2026Confirmed

New York bans certain AI companion features for minors

Governor Kathy Hochul signed a law on 28 October 2026 prohibiting certain AI companion features when interacting with minors in New York State. It takes effect on 1 January 2027.

Portrait of Kathy Hochul — Kathy Hochul on 3 February 2022. Archive photograph, not the signing ceremony. — Adam Schultz / The White House, Wikimedia Commons — public domain; cropped portrait, 3 February 2022.

The law targets responses suggesting the software is human, experiences emotions or has a personal relationship with a child. It also prohibits sexual content and encouragement of self-harm. Operators will have to use age assurance methods meeting the law’s conditions.

Exceptions cover tools strictly limited to customer service, research or technical assistance, as well as certain internal business uses. The attorney general may seek injunctions and civil penalties. Industry group Tech:NYC criticises language it considers vague and fears restrictions on educational tools, according to Le Temps and ATS.

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