A bill introduced in the California state legislature would put limits on the use of artificial intelligence when it comes to mental health.
Senate Bill 903 prohibits AI companies from advertising that they offer therapeutic services if they are provided by “companion chatbots.” It also makes it so AI isn’t allowed to make therapeutic decisions without being reviewed by a licensed professional.
Democratic state Sen. Steve Padilla told Cal Matters that while AI can be used for administrative purposes and to help clinicians, it should not be conducting psychotherapy.
“We’re dealing with a new impactful technology that is unfolding and is deployed in our world at light speed, and so it is both extremely powerful and consequential,” Padilla said.
Supporters of the bill said they also want to prevent mental health care practitioners from being replaced with AI.
