(Washington, D.C.) -Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09) says three of her bipartisan bills protecting children online have passed out of the Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade (CMT) Subcommittee.
Houchin says the AWARE Act, the SAFEBOTs Act, and the Parents Over Platforms Act represent major steps toward giving parents stronger tools, holding tech companies accountable, and ensuring kids are safe in an increasingly digital world.
The AWARE Act directs the Federal Trade Commission to provide clear guidance to parents, educators, and minors on the risks associated with AI chatbot companions and how to identify red flags.
The SAFEBOTs Act builds on that framework by requiring clear disclosure when minors interact with AI, establishing commonsense protections, and preventing harmful or deceptive content from reaching kids.
The Parents Over Platforms Act, co-led with Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), closes the loopholes that let kids bypass age limits by making app stores and developers share responsibility for real age assurance and safer design.
“Protecting kids online is one of the most urgent challenges we face in today’s digital age. These bills take on AI chatbot risks, strengthen transparency, and hold platforms accountable for whether children can access their apps. Parents and kids deserve an internet that puts their safety first. I’m grateful to my colleagues for passing these bills, and I look forward to moving them through the full Energy & Commerce Committee,” said Congresswoman Houchin.
She adds together, these bills mark the most significant congressional effort to date to address the evolving dangers children face online.
The legislation now heads to the full Energy & Commerce Committee for consideration.
