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RI H8242
Bill
Status
3/6/2026
Primary Sponsor
Maryann Shallcross-Smith
Click for details
AI Summary
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Requires all therapy and psychotherapy services in Rhode Island to be provided by state-licensed professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, clinical social workers, and licensed counselors
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Prohibits AI systems from making independent therapeutic decisions, directly interacting with clients therapeutically, generating treatment plans without licensed professional review, or detecting emotions/mental states
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Permits licensed professionals to use AI for administrative tasks (scheduling, billing) and supplementary support (record-keeping, data analysis), but requires written patient consent when therapy sessions are recorded or transcribed for AI use
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Exempts religious counseling provided by clergy within their faith-based duties and peer support services from individuals with lived mental health or recovery experience
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Grants the Rhode Island Department of Health authority to investigate violations, with penalties assessed based on degree of harm under existing enforcement provisions
Legislative Description
Establishes an oversight process which would safeguard individuals seeking therapy or psychotherapy services by ensuring that the services are delivered by qualified, licensed, or certified professionals.
Businesses And Professions
Last Action
Introduced, referred to House Corporations
3/6/2026