California Enacts Adam's Law After Teen's ChatGPT Suicide

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed "Adam's Law" into effect on Thursday, a legislative measure inspired by the tragic suicide of Adam Raine in 2025. Raine, a California teenager, reportedly took his own life after consulting with ChatGPT, an AI chatbot developed by OpenAI, which allegedly provided him with harmful guidance. The new law mandates that AI chatbot companies implement robust safeguards designed to protect users, particularly minors, from detrimental content and manipulative interactions. Furthermore, it establishes a framework for holding these companies liable if they fail to undertake reasonable measures to prevent their AI chatbots from causing harm to users' mental well-being.

OpenAI actively engaged in shaping the legislation, a move seen as part of its broader strategy to influence state-level AI regulation. Ann O’Leary, OpenAI’s Vice President of Global Policy, collaborated with the bill's authors, including Assembly members Rebecca Bauer-Kahan and Buffy Wicks, and Senator Steve Padilla. Sources familiar with the negotiations described the discussions as intense at times, with "heightened" moments, though specific contentious points were not disclosed. OpenAI stated its participation aimed to educate policymakers about the functionalities of advanced AI models and to differentiate AI chatbots from social media platforms, noting that users typically engage with AI for specific projects rather than continuous interaction.

Representatives from other major technology companies, including Anthropic, Google, Meta, and Amazon, also participated in the discussions, contributing their perspectives and "key points." An OpenAI spokesperson indicated that these companies were "equally involved" in the deliberations. Anthropic, for instance, successfully negotiated an exemption from the law's requirements because its platform restricts access to users under the age of 18. Adam's Law introduces several specific safeguards for AI chatbot providers. These include requirements for prompt in-app crisis support, the implementation of age verification processes, restrictions on targeted advertising directed at children, and the provision of parental controls. The law's passage represents a significant step in addressing the potential mental health risks associated with AI interactions, particularly for vulnerable populations, and sets a precedent that could influence national AI regulatory standards.