Bill > HB883

This bill prohibits developers of artificial intelligence (AI) from making or knowingly allowing AI to make claims that it is a behavioral health care provider or capable of providing such care, and also forbids AI specifically designed to offer services that would constitute the practice of behavioral health care if performed by a human professional. A "developer" is defined as anyone who sells, leases, gives, or otherwise provides AI to consumers in Maryland. Any AI sold or provided to consumers in the state must include a clear notice that the user is not communicating with a human and must have protocols in place to detect and respond to suicidal ideations or self-harm expressions by referring the user to appropriate behavioral health services or crisis response systems. Violations of these provisions are considered unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practices, subject to enforcement actions by the Attorney General and carrying a civil penalty of up to $1,000,000 per violation, with revenues from these penalties going to a behavioral health investment fund. The bill also clarifies that it does not prohibit AI products offering advice and guidance on behavioral health as long as they don't claim to provide actual care, nor does it prevent licensed behavioral health care providers from using AI for administrative support.