Markey asks Google to separate Search from school AI controls

Sen. Ed Markey has asked Alphabet Chief Executive Sundar Pichai to let K-12 schools disable Google’s artificial intelligence features in Search while retaining access to the search engine, and to provide research on the effects of its AI products on students.

In a letter sent November 9, the Massachusetts Democrat asked whether Google would allow schools to turn off AI Overviews, Gemini and Guided Learning without losing Search. He also requested information on the technical feasibility of providing school-account users with search results that do not include AI-generated responses or guidance.

Markey sought the company’s research, testing and risk assessments concerning student safety, mental health and learning, including for children younger than 13. He also asked how many schools and districts use Google products that restrict students’ access to generative AI or chatbots outside Search. He requested a response by November 30, 2026.

Google says its AI features are too tightly integrated into Search for the company to offer the search engine without them. A company spokesperson said the new controls give school administrators more ability to manage AI use, while Google’s...