AWARE Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Houchin, Erin [R-IN-9]
- Committees
- Energy and Commerce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Dec 11, 2025
Bottom line
The AWARE Act mandates the FTC to create educational materials to help minors, parents, and educators navigate the safe use of AI chatbots.
What it actually does
This bill directs the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to develop and make publicly available educational resources for parents, educators, and minors regarding the safe and responsible use of AI chatbots by individuals under 18. These resources must cover identifying safe/unsafe use, privacy and data collection, and best practices for parental supervision, modeling them after the FTC's existing Youville program.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that as AI chatbot technology rapidly evolves and becomes more accessible, it is crucial to proactively educate minors, parents, and educators about potential risks and best practices for safe engagement. They contend that providing clear, accessible resources will empower users to make informed decisions, protect privacy, and mitigate harms associated with emerging AI technologies, drawing on the FTC's proven experience in consumer education.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that while education is valuable, it may not be sufficient to address the complex and rapidly changing risks posed by AI chatbots, suggesting that more robust regulatory frameworks or technical safeguards might be necessary. Some may also question the effectiveness of educational campaigns alone in influencing behavior, or express concern about potential overreach or the FTC's capacity to keep resources current with technological advancements.
The bill is very short and clear, making it easy to read and understand quickly, well within the time typically allotted for legislative review.
Section 2(a)
Mandate for Educational Resources
This provision requires the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to create and distribute educational materials within 180 days of the bill's enactment. These materials are specifically designed for parents, educators, and minors, focusing on how to use AI chatbots safely and responsibly. The FTC is also directed to consult with other relevant federal agencies during this development process.
Supporters argue
Supporters assert that this mandate is a critical first step in addressing the societal impact of AI chatbots on younger generations. They believe that empowering these groups with knowledge is essential for navigating the evolving digital landscape safely, preventing misuse, and fostering responsible technological adoption.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against the general concept of providing educational resources. However, some might argue that the scope is too narrow or that the FTC may lack the specific expertise to address all nuances of AI safety without significant external input.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the need for timely intervention with the administrative burden on the FTC. It aims to provide broad educational benefits while relying on an agency with existing consumer protection expertise.
Section 2(b)
Content Requirements for Educational Resources
This section specifies the mandatory topics that the educational resources developed by the FTC must cover. These include guidance on how to differentiate between safe and unsafe uses of AI chatbots, information regarding privacy and data collection practices by these systems, and best practices for parents who are supervising their children's interactions with AI chatbots. This ensures the resources are comprehensive in addressing key concerns.
Section 2(c)
Modeling on Youville Program
This provision instructs the Federal Trade Commission to base the new AI chatbot educational resources on its existing 'Youville program.' The Youville program is an FTC initiative designed to educate consumers, particularly children and teens, about online safety, privacy, and digital literacy. By leveraging this established model, the bill aims to ensure consistency in educational approach and potentially expedite the development process.