How Google is drafting AI chatbot laws around the country

Thornton, Colo., Sept. 13, 2026: Cynthia Montoya sits in the living room of her home, where photographs and memories of her daughter Juliana Peralta surround her. Montoya says Juliana's life was filled with art, friendships and community. (Jimena Peck for NPR)

As state legislatures push to rein in AI chatbots, Google is drafting model rules to set a federal baseline. Bills in California, New York and elsewhere demand transparency, safety audits and user rights. Google’s AI Policy Team says the model balances safety and innovation.

The Google‑crafted bill centers on disclosure, content moderation and data‑use opt‑outs. It explicitly exempts “core conversational products” like Bard from certain audit requirements, a move that would give larger firms more leeway than smaller startups. The exemption reflects the complexity of scaling real‑time conversation while maintaining user trust.

Critics call the proposal a case of regulatory capture, fearing Google will write rules that protect its own interests. Proponents argue a unified federal standard is essential for clear development guidelines and to keep U.S. AI innovation competitive. Lawmakers in several states have already signaled they may reject the Google draft in favor of stricter measures.

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By AI