Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan’s Bill to Protect Children’s Data from AI Passes the Floor

Sacramento, CA –Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan’s bill AB 2877 passed the Assembly floor with a bipartisan vote of 73 to 0. This bill will prohibit businesses from using the personal data of children 16 and under to train artificial intelligence (AI) tools without a parent’s authorization.

 “Our children need to be protected from exploitation,” said Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan (D- Orinda).  “We cannot make the same mistakes we made allowing social media companies to prey on our children.  AB 2877 restricts the use of children’s data in AI development, ensuring their highly sensitive information is not used without express consent.”

"The promises and perils of AI are becoming increasingly clear, with the use of a minor’s personal data presenting an especially urgent set of risks," said Danny Weiss, Chief Advocacy Officer of Common Sense Media. "We are grateful for Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan's leadership on this bill that shows foresight in making sure California’s strong data privacy law will also apply to AI products and services used by kids under 16."

“AB 2877 is sorely needed to ensure responsible AI development and uphold the fundamental rights of our youngest citizens,” said Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan. The bill now heads to the California State Senate.