Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility House Communications &Technology Committee prioritizes child safety by advancing bills on AI companions, school safety

House Communications &Technology Committee prioritizes child safety by advancing bills on AI companions, school safety

Southeast Delegation    June 23, 2026 | 11:22 AM

HARRISBURG, June 23 – The Pennsylvania House Communications & Technology Committee today approved legislation that would implement technological safeguards to enhance school safety and protect users of artificial intelligence companion applications.

The legislation considered included the following:

  • House Bill 634 (Cepeda-Freytiz) – Requires schools to consider implementing a panic alarm system as part of their reviews of their school safety and security practices.
  • House Bill 2006 (Shusterman) – Establishes safeguards on the use of AI companions, including protocols for detecting and responding to suicidal ideation, self-harm and violent intentions; age assurance, parental consent requirements and protections for minor users; and transparency that the user is not communicating with a human.
  • House Resolution 560 (Pickett) – Recognizes the week of June 22 through 28, 2026 as “Amateur Radio Week” in Pennsylvania.

“The two bills advanced today reflect the crucial role that the House Communications & Technology Committee plays in evaluating legislation regarding emerging technologies’ potential impact on our children’s safety,” said state Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-Montgomery, chair of the committee. “While the silent panic alarm system can help save lives by alerting law enforcement about a school emergency, we’ve already seen how AI companions can harm individuals—especially those struggling with mental health issues—who rely on them for support. These bills will help protect our children both in our schools and online, while making sure that we have guardrails on the growing use of AI companions to protect all Pennsylvania consumers from their serious risks.”

House Resolution 560 would recognize the service and contributions of amateur radio operators across Pennsylvania.

The legislation now moves to the full House for consideration.