Congress Probes AI Chatbots After Teen Suicides Highlight Mental Health Risks

What Happened

Parents whose teenagers died by suicide after interacting with AI chatbots testified before Congress about their experiences. During the hearings, lawmakers heard disturbing details of how unregulated AI-driven chatbots can impact vulnerable youth, with parents urging for stricter controls and transparency from tech companies. The testimony comes amid growing scrutiny on AI products and their influence on mental health, particularly among minors. Lawmakers are now considering new policies to address safety, transparency, and industry accountability.

Why It Matters

The hearings highlight urgent concerns about the social and psychological risks of AI technology, especially in mental health contexts. As chatbots become more widespread, policymakers and the industry face pressure to prioritize user safety and ethical standards. Read more in our AI News Hub