Houchin Highlights Legislative Push to Protect Children Online as E&C Subcommittee Holds Hearing

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade held a legislative hearing on protecting children and teens online, featuring several bills led or co-led by Congresswoman Erin Houchin (IN-09). These proposals work together to give parents stronger tools, hold platforms accountable, and create safeguards for kids in the digital age.

“Kids are growing up in an online world that is changing faster than any parent can keep up with,” said Rep. Houchin. These bills all share one goal—putting families back in control. Whether we’re addressing AI chatbots, addictive algorithms, or better age protections, this is about putting the wellbeing of kids first.”

The hearing considered 19 bills, including the following:

• H.R.5360 The AWARE Act – the first House bill to address AI chatbot companions, directing the FTC to provide parents, educators, and kids with clear guidance on how these bots work, the risks they pose, and how to stay safe.

• The SAFE BOTs Act – a follow-up to AWARE that prohibits chatbots from impersonating licensed professionals and requires clear disclosure when a child is interacting with AI, while setting baseline protections such as break prompts and crisis information.

• The RESET Act – legislation that requires platforms to default minors into safer settings, limit addictive and harmful algorithmic content, and give parents stronger oversight tools.

• The Parents Over Platforms Act (co-led with Rep. Jake Auchincloss) – a bipartisan bill closing the loophole that allows kids to bypass age limits by requiring app stores and developers to share responsibility for age assurance and blocking high-risk content for minors.

The hearing marks a key step forward as Congress considers comprehensive reforms to address risks posed by social media platforms, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies.