What’s the problem?
Kids can access AI chatbots with almost no guardrails. These systems collect data, shape conversations, and can expose minors to unsafe or manipulative content.
Congresswoman Houchin’s AWARE Act responds by telling the FTC to publish a pamphlet. That’s symbolic — not enforceable.
What does this bill do?
The Child AI Safety and Accountability Act sets real, enforceable rules for companies that build and run AI chatbots. It protects kids with five key safeguards:
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Age verification & parental consent:
Companies must verify age before granting access, and parents get dashboards to see and control their child’s usage.
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Transparency:
Companies must publish plain‑language disclosures — what data they collect, how they use it, and how long they keep it. Disclosures must be public, free, and updated yearly.
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Independent safety audits:
Annual third‑party audits of safety filters, privacy practices, and age‑gating, with results sent to the FTC and posted publicly.
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Enforcement & penalties:
The FTC can fine violators up to $50,000 per child per violation, issue cease‑and‑desist orders, and refer repeat offenders to the Justice Department.
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Public dashboards:
The FTC must maintain a real‑time public dashboard showing compliance status, audit results, and enforcement actions.
Why does it matter?
- Parents don’t need pamphlets: They need enforceable protections.
- Kids don’t need promises: They need real safeguards.
- Voters don’t need headlines: They need proof.
The difference
- Houchin’s AWARE Act: FTC pamphlet, no enforcement, no penalties.
- Floyd’s Child AI Safety and Accountability Act: Enforceable rules, audits, penalties, public dashboards.
“Erin’s bill tells the FTC to make a pamphlet. My bill actually protects kids — with enforceable age‑gating, transparency, audits, penalties, and public dashboards. That’s the difference between ceremonial bills and real legislation.”