Idaho Conversational AI Safety Act (S 1297): AI Compliance Requirements

Operators of publicly accessible conversational AI systems serving Idaho users must clearly disclose, where a reasonable person might otherwise believe they are interacting with a human, that the user is interacting with artificial intelligence, not a human. The disclosure must be prominent — not buried in terms of service. This applies to chatbots, virtual assistants, AI companions, and any AI that engages in text or voice dialogue. Takes effect July 1, 2027 (signed March 31, 2026, Session Law Chapter 249) — comply by that date.

Your conversational AI must implement a crisis detection and referral protocol: when a user expresses suicidal ideation, self-harm intent, or mental health crisis, make reasonable efforts to refer the user to appropriate crisis resources (988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, Crisis Text Line "HOME" to 741741, or local emergency services). Document this protocol. Operators must not represent that the service provides professional mental or behavioral health care, and AI systems are prohibited from claiming to be licensed therapists, psychologists, or mental health professionals. Takes effect July 1, 2027 — comply by that date.

Idaho S 1297 explicitly prohibits conversational AI from simulating emotional dependence, romantic relationships, or sexual content with minor users. If your AI product is accessible to users under 18, audit it for: simulated friendship/companionship mechanics designed to maximize emotional attachment, romantic or sexual content generation, and engagement mechanics that exploit minor users. Remove or restrict these features for minor-accessible products. Takes effect July 1, 2027 — comply by that date.

Provide users of your conversational AI with accessible privacy controls and account management tools, including the ability to review data your AI system collects during conversations and to request deletion of conversation history. Document your privacy controls in your privacy policy.