COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation is joining state lawmakers in backing new legislation that would penalize artificial intelligence platforms for promoting or suggesting self-harm to users.
House Bill 524, introduced earlier this month, aims to hold technology companies accountable if their AI systems generate recommendations, responses, or content that could encourage suicide or self-injury. The bill would classify such actions as a criminal offense, mirroring existing laws that prohibit individuals from assisting or encouraging self-harm.
“AI should be a tool for connection and safety, not a trigger for tragedy,” said OSPF Executive Director Tony Coder during a press event at the Statehouse Tuesday. “Technology is advancing quickly, but we need to make sure it’s held to a standard that protects people in crisis.”
Under the proposal, developers of AI chatbots or algorithms could face fines or restrictions if their programs are found to have suggested harmful actions to users. Lawmakers behind the bill say safeguards are urgently needed as conversational AI technology becomes more integrated into mental health, education, and customer service platforms.
Rep. Gail Pavliga, R-Portage County, a primary sponsor of the bill and chair of the House Behavioral Health Committee, called AI a “powerful but unpredictable tool” that must be regulated responsibly.
“This legislation ensures Ohio remains proactive in protecting its citizens from emerging risks in artificial intelligence,” Pavliga said. “We want innovation to flourish, but not at the cost of human safety.”
The foundation’s endorsement follows growing public concern about the psychological dangers posed by unregulated AI systems. Several recent cases nationwide have drawn scrutiny after users claimed chatbot interactions worsened mental health crises.
If passed, House Bill 524 would make Ohio one of the first states to impose criminal penalties for AI-generated self-harm content. The measure is now under review in committee and is expected to see debate later this spring.