WASHINGTON, DC (October 28, 2025) – The National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE) commended the introduction of the GUARD Act (Guidelines for User Age-verification and Responsible Dialogue) today by Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) and Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).
The GUARD Act would require implementation of age verification on AI chatbots, requiring additional protections for minors, and makes it a criminal offense—punishable by fines of up to $100,000—to create or provide chatbots that solicit or exploit minors, or that promote or coerce suicide, self-harm, or physical or sexual violence.
“Children are falling victim to Big Tech’s latest product: AI chatbots. These AI companions have mimicked sexual relationships, engaged in discussions of suicide, and encouraged self-harm. OpenAI and Character.ai are already being sued by parents whose children allegedly died because of their chatbots. In the race for AI dominance, Big Tech prioritizes engagement and profits instead of safety and human flourishing. The GUARD Act is desperately needed to further protect AI users, especially children,” said Haley McNamara, Executive Director and Chief Strategy Officer, National Center on Sexual Exploitation.
During a press conference today, Sen. Blumenthal said, “You may think this is somebody else’s problem, but you are not immune. This can happen to anyone in America or around the world.”
“AI technology should expedite innovation, not exploitation. We urge Congress to lead on AI and ensure that children are protected,” McNamara added.
About National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE)
Founded in 1962, the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE) is the leading national non-profit organization exposing the links between all forms of sexual exploitation such as child sexual abuse, prostitution, sex trafficking and the public health harms of pornography.
To schedule an interview with NCOSE, please contact press@ncose.com
