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SC S0788
Bill
Status
Introduced
1/13/2026
Primary Sponsor
Allen Blackmon
Click for details
AI Summary
- Requires licensed mental health professionals to obtain written patient consent before using AI tools that record or transcribe therapy sessions, including disclosure of the specific AI purpose
- Prohibits individuals, corporations, or entities from offering therapy or psychotherapy services in South Carolina unless conducted by a state-licensed professional (psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker, counselor, marriage/family therapist, or addiction counselor)
- Bans AI from making independent therapeutic decisions, directly communicating with clients therapeutically, generating treatment plans without licensed professional review, or detecting emotions/mental states
- Exempts religious counseling, peer support services, and general self-help/educational materials from these AI restrictions
- Establishes civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation, with licensing boards authorized to investigate violations and assess penalties based on degree of harm
Legislative Description
Artificial Intelligence and Therapy or Psychotherapy
Last Action
Referred to Committee on Labor, Commerce and Industry
1/13/2026
Committee Referrals
Labor, Commerce and Industry1/13/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available