Bill > S08484

This bill regulates the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in therapy and psychotherapy services in New York State by establishing strict guidelines for how licensed mental health professionals can utilize AI tools. The legislation defines various terms like "administrative support," "supplementary support," and "therapeutic communication," and prohibits AI from directly interacting with clients, making independent therapeutic decisions, or generating treatment recommendations without professional review. Specifically, licensed professionals are only permitted to use AI for administrative tasks like scheduling or record-keeping, and they cannot use AI to assist in supplementary support during recorded or transcribed therapy sessions without obtaining the patient's explicit, written consent that clearly explains the specific purpose of the AI tool. The bill imposes significant penalties of up to $50,000 per violation for entities that fail to comply with these regulations and explicitly excludes religious counseling, peer support, and public self-help materials from these requirements. The goal appears to be protecting patient privacy and ensuring that AI remains a supportive tool rather than a replacement for professional mental health care, maintaining the human element in therapeutic interactions.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8484