Senior Chatbot Protection Act of 2026

Increased Transparency: Chatbots must clearly disclose that they are not human and are not licensed professionals, which helps users understand exactly what they are interacting with (Section 3(a)(1)(A)).

Safety During Crises: The bill requires chatbots to use evidence-based methods to detect a crisis and refers the user to emergency services or crisis service providers, such as the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (Section 3(a)(1)(D)-(E)).

Protection in High-Stakes Situations: Chatbots must identify when a user is seeking guidance on high-stakes decisions—such as health care, legal matters, or financial transfers—and provide specific disclosures so the information is not relied upon as the sole basis for action (Section 3(a)(1)(B)-(C)).

Prevention of Manipulation: The Act requires companies to prevent design practices that take advantage of age-related cognitive limitations or encourage excessive, prolonged engagement (Section 3(c)(1)).

Enhanced Data Privacy: There are strict limits on when a covered entity can collect or retain conversation data, requiring affirmative consent for many uses and providing users the ability to delete their history (Section 3(b)).

Compliance Burdens for Entities: Companies (covered entities) are required to develop specific protocols, conduct training, and submit annual reports regarding material adverse incidents (Section 3(a)(2) and Section 4(a)).

Civil Penalties: Violations of the Act's requirements regarding the operation of chatbots can result in civil penalties of up to $50,000 for each knowing or reckless violation (Section 5(b)).