Guard Act targets AI 'companions' used by minors, sponsor says; industry asks for clarifications House Bill 20‑32 would require age verification for AI companions, force chatbots to disclose nonhuman status, bar development that recklessly creates AI that encourages self-harm or sexualized content for minors, and give the attorney general rulemaking authority; clinical witnesses supported the bill while a trade group warned definitions could be broad.

A new bill in Missouri aims to regulate AI companions for minors after tragic incidents highlight their potential dangers, requiring age verification and strict guidelines to prevent harm.

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#MO #AIEthics #CitizenPortal #MissouriMinors #ChildProtection #MentalHealthSafeguards

Two Missouri bills would impose age verification and limits on social‑media features for minors; sponsors and youth testify House Bills 33‑93 and 23‑92 would place stricter age limits, require parental consent or verification, and restrict targeted advertising and addictive design features for minors; sponsors, clinicians and a 12‑year‑old testified in favor while industry urged careful definitions and data‑security safeguards.

Missouri lawmakers are taking a stand against social media's impact on youth mental health, proposing bills that could revolutionize how children interact online.

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#MO #CitizenPortal #DigitalSafety #MissouriMinors #YouthEmpowerment #MentalHealth

Judge appoints child counsel for abuse cases involving minors over 14 Legislation allows direct appointment of child counsel without guardian ad litem.

Missouri's House Bill 737 is set to revolutionize the legal landscape for minors facing childhood sexual abuse by allowing them direct legal representation—empowering young voices when it matters most.

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#MO #ChildhoodSexualAbuse #MissouriMinors #VictimsRights #CitizenPortal

Court implements ex parte protective orders for minors in domestic violence cases Court issues immediate ex parte orders to protect minors from domestic violence threats.

Missouri's House Bill 176 is set to revolutionize protections for minors in domestic violence cases by streamlining ex parte orders and ensuring their voices are heard.

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#MO #DomesticViolence #MissouriMinors #ChildProtection #CitizenPortal #LegalReform