Utah Rep. Blake Moore Proposes Ban on AI Chatbots in Children's Toys

TL;DR

Utah Rep. Blake Moore has introduced legislation to ban AI chatbots in children's toys, citing privacy and safety risks. The bill would prohibit manufacturing, importing, or selling toys that incorporate such chatbots under the Consumer Product Safety Act.

Artificial intelligence is increasingly embedded in everyday products, including plushies, dolls, and action figures marketed to children. These AI‑enabled toys often use chatbots to simulate conversation and companionship. Critics argue that the technology has outpaced research on its effects on young users, prompting calls for stricter oversight. Last year, consumer groups warned families about AI toys ahead of the holiday season.

Moore stated that every aspect of AI adoption must be human‑centric and that ethics should outweigh concerns about privacy, safety, development, and addiction. A report by the Public Interest Research Group found that some AI chatbots in children's toys discussed sexually explicit topics, advised users on finding matches or knives, lacked parental controls, and could collect voice recordings. The bill, titled the AI Children's Toy Safety Act, would make violations of the Consumer Product Safety Act punishable by law. Moore warned that allowing children still developing relational maturity to interact with chatbots blurs the line between play and real‑life relationships.

If passed, the legislation would force manufacturers to remove AI chatbots from products aimed at children under 13, potentially reshaping the toy industry's approach to embedded AI. Advocacy groups say the move addresses immediate risks, while industry representatives note existing federal safety standards already govern such products. The outcome could influence future federal debates on AI regulation for minors. Lawmakers will monitor the bill's progress through congressional committees and watch for any companion measures at the state level, as similar proposals have previously stalled amid broader debates over AI oversight.