In one paragraph
Missouri's HB 2318, as introduced, would bar any person or entity that develops or deploys artificial intelligence in the state from advertising or representing to the public that the AI is, or can act as, a mental health professional or provide therapy services. A violation would be an unlawful practice under the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act, enforced by the attorney general with civil penalties of $10,000 for a first violation and $20,000 for later ones. A House committee substitute (filed under HB 2368) was reported do pass March 12, 2026, but the bill died when the 2026 regular session ended in May 2026 without being truly agreed to and finally passed.
Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.
What it means for business
None: the bill did not pass and is not law. Had it passed, it would have barred AI companies from marketing chatbots as therapists or mental health professionals in Missouri.
Key provisions
- As introduced, would create section 407.3007 in the merchandising practices chapter
- Would prohibit AI developers and deployers from advertising or representing that AI is, or can act as, a mental health professional or provide therapy services
- Would make any violation an unlawful practice under the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act
- Would have the attorney general enforce it, with anyone able to report violations and the attorney general required to sue on finding one; courts could grant damages, injunctive relief and attorney's fees
- Would set civil penalties of $10,000 for a first violation and $20,000 for any subsequent violation
- Not enacted: referred to the House Health and Mental Health committee; a substitute (filed under primary bill HB 2368) was reported do pass (14-0) on March 12, 2026; the captured text is the introduced version
Latest legislative action
Mar 12, 2026. HCS Reported Do Pass (H) - AYES: 14 NOES: 0 PRESENT: 0
Sponsors (showing 5 of 8)
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Chris Dinkins | Primary |
| Christofanelli, Phil | Primary |
| Marshall, Nick | Primary |
| Pattie Mansur D | Primary |
| Price IV, Wiley | Primary |
Topics and industries
Related topics
Affected industries
This page is general information, not legal advice. Summaries are AI-assisted and may contain errors; read the statute for the controlling text and talk to a lawyer about your situation. Full disclaimer · Report an error