Signed by Governor Dan McKee

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that restricts the use of artificial intelligence in mental health therapy services in Rhode Island.

Highlights:

• Prohibits a licensed professional or provider from using artificial intelligence (AI) designed to simulate emotional attachment, bonding, or dependency, or AI companions for mental health support or therapy services without the written informed consent of the patient, their parent/guardian, or other legally authorized representative (Sec. 1). 

• Prohibits any individual or corporation from offering therapy or psychotherapy services to the public, including through internet-based AI, unless those services are conducted by a licensed professional (Sec. 1). 

• Prohibits licensed providers from using AI to make independent therapeutic decisions or to determine specific treatment plans (Sec. 1). 

• Probits AI from interacting directly with clients through therapeutic communication unless an established relationship exists where the provider has agreed to undertake diagnosis and treatment (Sec. 1). 

• Specifies that licensed providers retain full responsibility for clinical judgment and therapeutic oversight of a patient's use of an AI system (Sec. 1). 

• Requires that all communication and records between a patient and a licensed professional involving AI use remain confidential (Sec. 1). 

• Authorizes the executive office of health and human services to investigate alleged violations and to create rules and regulations to carry out this act (Sec. 1). 

• Exempts religious counseling, peer support, and self-help materials from the regulations of this act (Sec. 1). 

• Exempts AI tools or systems that have been reviewed and cleared for use by the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or other relevant federal agencies (Sec. 1). 

• Specifies that this act takes effect upon passage (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text