Ventura legislation to require human interaction transparency for AI chatbots through disclosure requirement

SPRINGFIELD - A measure sponsored by State Senator Rachel Ventura that would require companies to disclose when they’re using AI chatbots and not a human to talk with consumers passed the Senate Executive Committee Wednesday.

“We’ve all experienced it before. You call a company for help, and the next thing you know, you’re frustrated by the lack of answers – only to realize minutes later you’re talking to a chatbot rather than a real person,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “People deserve to know whether they are communicating with a human or an AI system from the very beginning of an interaction.”

Senate Bill 317 would require any person or company using a conversational artificial intelligence system in a chat interface to communicate with a consumer during trade or commerce to provide the consumer with a clear and conspicuous disclosure at the beginning of the interaction that the consumer is communicating with an automated system and not with a human.

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Villa advances measure to secure students’ biometric information

SPRINGFIELD – As the use of artificial intelligence and biometric systems permeates sectors, including education, State Senator Karina Villa advanced a measure to protect students' sensitive information.

“In a digital age, we must do everything we can to protect children’s sensitive information, especially in school settings,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “The use of biometric systems in schools opens the door for the misuse of data or a potential breach. Students and their families deserve to know that their information is secure.”

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Ellman advances AI companion safety bill to protect youth and vulnerable users

SPRINGFIELD – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide was the second leading cause of death among people ages 10-14 and 25-34 in the United States, underscoring growing concerns about the role online platforms and AI systems can play in vulnerable users’ mental health crises. To increase protections aimed at preventing self-harm, State Senator Laura Ellman advanced legislation to establish safety standards for artificial intelligence companion chatbots, including sexually explicit interactions with minors.

“As artificial intelligence becomes more personal and conversational, we have a responsibility to ensure these systems are not exploiting vulnerability or putting users, especially young people, in harm’s way,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “AI companions are being marketed as emotional supports and trusted confidants, but without safeguards, these systems can reinforce dangerous behavior or fail to intervene during moments of crisis.”

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Hastings leads effort to expand virtual dental care

SPRINGFIELD — To expand access to dental care, State Senator Michael E. Hastings is carrying legislation designed to ensure patients can access virtual dental care safely while maintaining strong professional standards.

“Whether it is because of a disability or lack of access to transportation, people often struggle to make it to the dentist as much as they should,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “While it may seem harmless early on, missing out on routine dental work can lead to costly emergency room visits down the road.”

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