Common Sense Media urges feature-based rules for chatbots after family case cited

Mike Hote, California director for Common Sense Media, told the Select Committee that AI chatbots and companion products can replace essential human learning experiences and, in some cases, deepen harm. He described research showing widespread teen use of AI companions and said his group is supporting California bills that would require disclosure, safety features and independent testing.

Hote cited a high-profile family case involving their son Adam, alleging months-long chatbot conversations preceded his suicide, and used it to illustrate how product design can close off pathways to help. "We work closely with Matt and Maria Rain, whose 16 year old son Adam died by suicide after months of conversation with chat g p t," he said during testimony.

Common Sense Media urged four expectations for policy in California: prohibit emotional manipulation, require age-appropriate boundaries and disclosures, create mental-health-specific safety standards for systems used by minors, and require independent safety testing and transparency. The witness also noted SB 11 19 and AB 20 23 as pending legislative measures addressing chatbot safety and accountability.