ESSB 5984 — Regulating artificial intelligence companion chatbots.
Did not pass — the 2025–26 session has ended
- Sponsor
- Wellman
- Introduced
- January 30, 2026
- Status
- S Rules 3
- Last action
- By resolution, returned to Senate Rules Committee for third reading. (March 12, 2026)
What this bill does
Requires operators of artificial intelligence (AI) companion chatbots to issue certain notifications and implement precautions for minors. Requires operators of AI companion chatbots to implement protocols for detecting and addressing expressions of self-harm.
From the Washington State Legislature's nonpartisan staff bill analysis. Read the full analysis ↗
Floor votes
- Senate — 3rd Reading & Final Passage · February 12, 202638 yea · 11 nay
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Create a free accountOther bills sponsored by Wellman
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- SB 5189 — Supporting the implementation of competency-based education.
- ESB 5235 — Repealing and reorganizing outdated statutes concerning public schools.
- SSB 5240 — Concerning anaphylaxis medications in schools.
- SSB 5282 — Reestablishing the advisory board for the missing and exploited children task force.
All 2025-26 Washington State bills →
Source: the Washington State Legislature. OlympiaTrack is an independent bill-tracking service and is not affiliated with the Legislature. View on leg.wa.gov ↗