Albany, NY, November 13, 2025
New York State is implementing new safety measures for artificial intelligence with two laws taking effect on November 5, 2025. The AI Companion Safeguard Law mandates user notifications and crisis response from AI companions, while the Responsible AI Safety and Education Act (RAISE Act) requires large developers to enforce safety protocols and conduct audits. Violations may incur heavy penalties, positioning New York as a leader in safeguarding AI technology.
New York Enhances AI Safety Regulations Ahead of 2025
Albany, NY – New York State is taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of artificial intelligence (AI) with two new laws set to take effect on November 5, 2025. These measures aim to provide greater protection for users while encouraging responsible development within the fast-evolving AI sector.
AI Companion Safeguard Law
The first pivotal regulation, the AI Companion Safeguard Law, mandates that operators of AI companions—advanced systems engineered to engage users in extended, human-like conversations—establish stringent safety protocols. These include:
- User Notifications: AI companions must clearly indicate to users that they are interacting with an AI, not a human, every three hours during continuous use.
- Crisis Response: Should users display suicidal thoughts or intentions for self-harm, the AI is required to recognize these signals and refer them to suitable crisis resources.
Non-compliance could result in significant civil penalties, reaching up to $15,000 per day. Funds collected from fines will be allocated to support suicide prevention programs across New York State.
Responsible AI Safety and Education Act (RAISE Act)
The second piece of legislation, known as the Responsible AI Safety and Education Act (RAISE Act), targets large developers of high-risk AI systems, particularly those categorized as frontier models. Under the RAISE Act, developers must:
- Safety Protocols: Establish and uphold written safety and security protocols for at least five years following deployment.
- Third-Party Audits: Conduct annual independent audits to verify adherence to safety regulations.
- Incident Reporting: Report any safety incidents within a 72-hour window.
Violations of the RAISE Act may lead to civil penalties equating to a maximum of 15% of computing costs or $10,000 per affected employee.
Background
With these legislative measures, New York State is positioning itself as a frontrunner in AI safety regulation. The AI Companion Safeguard Law directly addresses user well-being in interactions with AI systems that mimic human connections. Meanwhile, the RAISE Act emphasizes the importance of implementing proactive safety measures and maintaining accountability among developers of advanced AI models.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the AI Companion Safeguard Law?
The AI Companion Safeguard Law requires operators of AI companions to implement safety protocols, including user notifications and crisis response measures, to protect users during interactions with AI systems.
What penalties apply for non-compliance with the AI Companion Safeguard Law?
Non-compliance may result in civil penalties of up to $15,000 per day, with collected fines supporting suicide prevention programs in New York State.
What is the Responsible AI Safety and Education Act (RAISE Act)?
The RAISE Act imposes obligations on large developers of high-risk AI systems, requiring them to create safety protocols, conduct third-party audits, and report incidents to ensure responsible AI development.
What penalties apply for violations of the RAISE Act?
Violations can lead to civil penalties of up to 15% of computing costs or $10,000 per affected employee.
How do these laws impact AI development in New York?
These laws position New York as a leader in AI safety regulation, emphasizing proactive safety measures and accountability to protect users and ensure responsible AI development.
Key Features of New York’s AI Safety Measures
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| AI Companion Safeguard Law | Requires AI companions to notify users they are interacting with AI and implement crisis response protocols for signs of suicidal ideation or self-harm. |
| RAISE Act | Imposes obligations on large AI developers to create safety protocols, conduct third-party audits, and report incidents to mitigate risks associated with advanced AI models. |
| Penalties for Non-Compliance | Non-compliance with the AI Companion Safeguard Law may result in civil penalties of up to $15,000 per day, while violations of the RAISE Act can lead to civil penalties of up to 15% of computing costs or $10,000 per affected employee. |
| Implementation Date | Both laws are effective as of November 5, 2025. |
Now Happening on X
- @FenwickWest (November 12, 2025): AI friend or foe? New York now requires companies offering qualifying “AI companions” to follow strict transparency and user safety rules, with penalties up to $15,000 per day. What companies need to know to stay compliant. View on X
- @News_8 (November 13, 2025): New York takes a stand on AI safety with two new laws and a training program. AI companion operators must now identify signs of self-harm among users, and companies using algorithmic pricing must disclose it to consumers. View on X
- @LuizaJarovsky (November 11, 2025): New York enacted a law requiring AI companies to improve the SAFETY of AI companions. An important step in AI chatbot regulation! Hopefully, other states and countries will follow suit. Info and comments included. View on X
- @JET24FOX66 (November 13, 2025): This month, New York implemented two new laws and launched a government training program on artificial intelligence. View on X
- @crypto_n_y_c (November 12, 2025): NYC just activated the nation’s first AI-companion safety law. Apps that act like “AI friends” must now disclose they’re not human and detect self-harm risks in real time. A big shift in how New York regulates emotional AI. View on X
- @TweetThreatNews (November 11, 2025): Starting Nov 10, 2025, New York’s Algorithmic Pricing Disclosure Act requires businesses to reveal use of personalized pricing based on personal data, with fines up to $1,000 per violation. View on X
- @wcax (November 11, 2025): NY law now requires safety protocols for AI companion sites. View on X
- @GonzaloLawPLLC (November 6, 2025): New York’s latest legislation highlights a clear shift toward greater transparency, ethical implementation, and user protection. This new law requires clear disclosure from AI companies to consumers. View on X
- @BrownRudnickLLP (November 7, 2025): In an article, partner discusses the proposed AI Accountability and Data Protection Act and the shifting legal landscape surrounding generative AI and the training of LLMs. The Act has far-reaching implications for businesses. View on X
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