AI disclosure laws in Washington
What businesses using chatbots, AI voice agents or AI content in Washington need to know. Last reviewed 2026-09-09. Not legal advice.
Short answer
Not yet, but it's coming. Washington has enacted Washington AI Companion Chatbot Act (HB 2225), which takes effect 2027-01-01. Federal rules, including the FTC Act, already apply.
Washington AI Companion Chatbot Act (HB 2225)
Starts 2027-01-01Wash. HB 2225 (2026), new chapter in Title 19 RCW · effective 2027-01-01 · private right of action
Who it covers
Operators of companion-style chatbots available to Washington users.
What to disclose
Clear and conspicuous disclosure that the companion chatbot is artificially generated and not human.
When: At the start and at least every three hours during continued interaction; every hour for users under 18.
Applies to
Penalties
Consumer Protection Act remedies (actual damages, treble damages up to statutory caps, attorney's fees); private right of action without fixed statutory damages.
Full details and sources for Washington AI Companion Chatbot Act (HB 2225) →
Federal rules that also apply in Washington
- FTC Act Section 5: deceptive AI practices: The Federal Trade Commission treats leading consumers to believe they are dealing with a human, when that fact would matter to their decision, as a deceptive practice.
- TCPA: AI-generated voices are 'artificial or prerecorded' calls: The FCC ruled that calls using AI-generated or AI-modified voices are 'artificial or prerecorded voice' calls under the TCPA.
Check your own website
See which of these laws reach your business, and whether your site already shows an AI notice. Free, no credit card.
Questions businesses ask
Does Washington require businesses to disclose AI chatbots?
Not yet, but it's coming. Washington has enacted Washington AI Companion Chatbot Act (HB 2225), which takes effect 2027-01-01. Federal rules, including the FTC Act, already apply.
When does Washington AI Companion Chatbot Act (HB 2225) take effect?
Washington AI Companion Chatbot Act (HB 2225) (Wash. HB 2225 (2026), new chapter in Title 19 RCW) takes effect 2027-01-01. Clear and conspicuous disclosure that the companion chatbot is artificially generated and not human.
What happens if a business in Washington doesn't disclose AI?
Under Washington AI Companion Chatbot Act (HB 2225): Consumer Protection Act remedies (actual damages, treble damages up to statutory caps, attorney's fees); private right of action without fixed statutory damages. Enforced by Washington Attorney General and private plaintiffs.. Individuals can also sue.
How can a business in Washington show visitors it uses AI?
Show a clear notice that visitors are talking to AI before or when a chat starts, repeat it on the schedule the law sets, and keep a record that it appeared. BotNotice does this with one line of code on most website builders.
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