Springfield, IL – Illinois has become the first state to ban artificial intelligence from delivering direct mental health therapy, following legislation signed Friday by Governor JB Pritzker aimed at safeguarding vulnerable patients and maintaining professional care standards.
According to the Office of the Governor, the newly enacted Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources Act prohibits the use of AI in therapeutic and psychotherapy decision-making. While AI can still support administrative tasks for licensed professionals, the law prevents unlicensed, automated systems from delivering care directly to patients.
The legislation comes amid growing national concern over unregulated chatbot platforms posing as mental health providers. One incident cited during state legislative hearings involved an AI program advising a fictional recovering addict to use methamphetamine to cope — highlighting what lawmakers say are serious public health risks.
“This legislation stands as our commitment to safeguarding the well-being of our residents by ensuring that mental health services are delivered by trained experts who prioritize patient care above all else,” said Mario Treto Jr., Secretary of the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
Backed by the IDFPR, the National Association of Social Workers Illinois Chapter, and bipartisan lawmakers, the bill received unanimous support in the General Assembly. The Act also empowers IDFPR to investigate violations and impose fines of up to $10,000 per offense.
Rep. Bob Morgan (D-Deerfield), a co-sponsor, emphasized the urgency, noting, “Illinoisans will still have access to helpful therapeutic apps, but we are going to put a stop to those trying to prey on our most vulnerable in need of true mental health services.”
The legislation took effect immediately upon being signed.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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