Bill > SB579

This bill requires the Secretary of Government Operations to establish a Mental Health and Artificial Intelligence Working Group by July 1, 2026, to comprehensively evaluate the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in mental health settings. The working group will consist of 16 members, including behavioral health professionals, AI experts, patient advocates, ethics and law experts, and representatives from various state agencies and legislative bodies. The group is tasked with investigating how AI can improve mental health outcomes, examining current and emerging AI technologies in mental health diagnosis and treatment, and identifying potential risks such as privacy concerns and unintended consequences. The working group must conduct at least three public meetings, gather input from diverse stakeholders including health organizations, academic institutions, and technology companies. By July 1, 2028, the group must submit a detailed report to the Legislature outlining potential uses, risks, and benefits of AI in mental health treatment, including best practices, policy recommendations, and a framework for training mental health professionals on AI tools. A follow-up report is required by January 1, 2030, to track the implementation of recommendations. The working group will operate without compensation but will be reimbursed for expenses, and the provisions of this bill will be repealed on January 1, 2031.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB579