Statement on the Advancement of AB 2023 & SB 1119 in California

August 13, 2026— Key committees in both houses of the State Legislature today advanced companion measures establishing safety standards for AI companion chatbots. The Senate Appropriations Committee released AB 2023 by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan. The Assembly Appropriations Committee released SB 1119 by Senator Steve Padilla, which cleared the Senate 39-0 in May. Both bills now head to the floor.

Jim Steyer, Founder and CEO of Common Sense Media, issued the following statement:

"Millions of kids are talking to AI companions built to keep them hooked, with no safety rules at all. AB 2023 and SB 1119 will provide strong protections for kids and real accountability for AI companies. Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, Buffy Wicks, and Steve Padilla are not waiting for another tragedy before they act. Their colleagues in the legislature should not either."

About Common Sense Media

Common Sense Media is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the research-backed information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in the age of apps, algorithms, and AI. We rate, educate, and advocate to protect and prepare kids online. Our ratings, research, and resources reach more than 150 million users globally, over 1.4 million educators, and more than 100,000 schools worldwide every year. Learn more at commonsense.org.