Governor Hochul announces safeguards for AI companions operating in New York State

ALBANY, NY- Governor Kathy Hochul has announced what she calls nation-leading safeguards for AI companions operating in New York that are now in effect.

The law, championed as part of the Governor’s Executive Budget earlier this year, requires AI Companion operators to implement safety features and provide notifications to interrupt users who are engaging for sustained periods with these systems.

AI Companions are now required to detect and implement a safety protocol if a user expresses suicidal ideation or self-harm, including referring them to a crisis center.

The law also requires Companion operators to notify and remind users that they are not interacting with a human every three hours of continued use.

“It is the responsibility of leaders to make sure that the innovative technologies shaping our world also protect those that use them, especially our young ones across the state,” Governor Hochul said.

“I look forward to working with companies and my partners in state government to continue to ensure that New York State remains a global leader in carving the path towards the future of responsible AI.”

“AI companions” are designed to simulate human relationships with users — like posing as an AI friend or romantic partner. These systems may remember personal details, adapt their personality to user preferences, and are designed to keep users engaged.

Recent reports point to increasing use of AI companions, and some experts warn that these systems are not safe for minors or vulnerable populations.

To protect New Yorkers from digital harm, as a part of the FY26 Enacted Budget, Governor Hochul established these new safeguards as General Business Law Article 47, requiring companies to implement safety measures for users and providing users with resources to seek assistance.

Responsibilities Under the New Law:

Effective November 5, 2025, AI Companion operators must:

• Implement safety protocols for crisis intervention: AI Companions must detect signs of suicidal ideation or self-harm and promptly direct users to crisis service providers.
• Interrupt extended use: Clearly and regularly notify users that they are interacting with artificial intelligence, not a human, including conspicuous notifications at session start and periodic intervals of every three hours of continued companion use.

Non-compliance will result in penalties, enforced by the New York Attorney General, and any fines collected will help fund suicide prevention programs in New York State.

Image via the office of New York Governor Kathy Hochul.