New York lawmakers are considering a bill that would make chatbot operators liable for AI responses in 14 licensed professions, including medicine, law, and engineering. Senate Bill S7263, introduced by Senator Kristen Gonzalez, would prohibit chatbots from providing 'substantive' advice that unlicensed humans could not legally give.

If passed, the bill would create civil liability for chatbot proprietors, with a 90-day grace period after signing. The legislation covers not just private companies but also government and nonprofit chatbots that help users understand tenant rights or basic healthcare. A private right of action allows individuals to sue for damages and attorneys' fees, potentially creating a 'serial plaintiff' environment similar to web accessibility lawsuits.

The bill's broad definition of 'proprietor' includes anyone deploying a chatbot, while explicitly excluding third-party developers. However, the undefined term 'substantive response' creates uncertainty about what advice would be prohibited. Critics argue the law could harm the very people it aims to protect by restricting low-cost guidance options for those who cannot afford professional services.