In one paragraph
Rhode Island's Oversight of Artificial Intelligence Technology in Mental Health Care Act bars any person or company from offering therapy or psychotherapy to the public, including through internet AI, unless a licensed professional provides it. Licensed professionals may not let AI make independent therapeutic decisions, set treatment plans, or talk with clients therapeutically outside an established care relationship, and need written informed consent before using emotionally bonding AI or AI companions on recorded or transcribed sessions. FDA-cleared tools, religious counseling, peer support and approved research are exempt. Effective June 22, 2026.
Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.
What it means for business
AI therapy and mental-health chatbot companies can't offer therapy services to Rhode Island users unless licensed professionals deliver them.
Key provisions
- No individual or company may provide, advertise or offer therapy or psychotherapy services, including through internet-based AI, unless a licensed professional conducts them (R.I. Gen. Laws § 40.1-5.5-3(b))
- AI may not make independent therapeutic decisions or determine therapeutic recommendations or treatment plans (§ 40.1-5.5-3(c))
- Written, revocable consent required before using AI designed to simulate emotional attachment, or AI companions, in recorded or transcribed sessions; broad terms of use don't count as consent
- Professionals may discuss clients' own AI apps and must monitor safety and explain risks (§ 40.1-5.5-3(d))
- Exempt: religious counseling, peer support, public self-help materials, FDA-cleared AI tools and IRB-approved research
- The Executive Office of Health and Human Services investigates violations and may adopt rules; confidentiality penalties under § 5-37.3-9
Latest legislative action
Jun 22, 2026. Signed by Governor
Sponsors (showing 5 of 8)
| Name | Role | District |
|---|---|---|
| David Tikoian D | Sponsor | SD-022 |
| John Burke D | Sponsor | SD-009 |
| Lori Urso D | Sponsor | SD-008 |
| Louis Dipalma D | Sponsor | SD-012 |
| Samuel Zurier D | Sponsor | SD-003 |
Roll call votes
S Passage May 21, 2026
36 yea0 nay2 otherPassed
S Senate Committee on Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Tech: Passage of Sub A May 14, 2026
4 yea0 nay3 otherPassed
S Senate Committee on Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Tech: Be held for further study Mar 24, 2026
7 yea0 nayPassed
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