AI Companion Laws by State in 2026

AI companions went from a niche to a target for lawmakers in about a year. Here's where things stand.

States with AI companion laws in force

  • New York: in force since November 2025.
  • California (SB 243): in force since January 2026.
  • Hawaii, Utah and Tennessee: in force.

Coming January 1, 2027

  • Washington and Oregon.

What these laws generally require

The details vary by state, but the common themes are:

  • Telling users it's AI. Companions must make clear they aren't human.
  • Protecting minors. Age checks and limits on what younger users can see.
  • Safety responses. Steps for when a user talks about self-harm.

Apple is moving too

Apple is rating AI companion apps 18+. Developers can file the new age declarations from November 16, 2026, and must comply by January 12, 2027. That covers App Store apps, not websites.

What it means for you

If you're an adult, mostly more age checks and clearer AI labels. Some apps may change features in certain states.

Where Caracas Dream stands

Caracas Dream is for adults 18 and over. Every companion is a fictional AI character, and we say so plainly in our AI disclosure.

Is Caracas Dream legit? →

AI companion laws FAQ

Which states have AI companion laws?

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New York, California, Hawaii, Utah and Tennessee have laws in force. Washington and Oregon start January 1, 2027.

What does California's SB 243 do?

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It regulates AI companion chatbots, including telling users they're talking to AI and protections for minors.

Does Apple require AI companion apps to be 18+?

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Yes. Compliance is due January 12, 2027, for App Store apps.