Kathy Hochul Signs Laws Regulating AI Chatbots and Baby Monitors

Governor Kathy Hochul signed two laws on October 28, 2026, aimed at regulating artificial intelligence and internet-of-things security. The first law prohibits AI companies from offering chatbot features to users under 18 or unverified users that allow the AI to pretend to be human, claim emotions, or establish romantic or authority-figure relationships with children.

This legislation specifically bans chatbots from using flattery to maintain engagement, asking unprompted emotional questions, or promoting self-harm, eating disorders, and illegal substance use. Companies must implement age verification using at least one method that does not rely solely on government ID. Violations may result in civil penalties of up to $25,000 per instance.

The second law requires new internet-connected baby monitors sold in New York to include security features to prevent unauthorized access and a warning label regarding internet connectivity. This mandate follows security testing by Rapid7, which found significant vulnerabilities in most tested monitors. These actions are part of a broader campaign by Hochul to regulate Big Tech ahead of her reelection bid.