California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a series of bills Monday targeting child online safety as concerns over the risks associated with artificial intelligence and social media use keep mounting.

"We can continue to lead in AI and technology, but we must do it responsibly — protecting our children every step of the way," he said in a release. "Our children’s safety is not for sale.”

The latest legislation comes as the AI craze ushers in a wave of more complex chatbots capable of deep, intellectual conversation and encouraging behaviors. Across age groups, people are leaning on AI for emotional support, companionship and in some cases, romantic connections .

A recent survey from Fractl Agents found that one in six Americans rely on chatbots and worry that losing access would stunt

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