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SC S0788

SC S0788: Artificial Intelligence and Therapy or Psychotherapy Verified

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Disclaimer: This page provides general informational summaries only and does not constitute legal advice. AI-generated content may contain errors. Always consult a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation. Read full disclaimer →
AI Summary

This bill regulates AI use in therapy, requiring licensed professionals to conduct services, mandates client consent for recorded sessions, and mentions exceptions to confidentiality without specifying them.

Business Impact

If you provide therapy services in South Carolina using AI, you must inform clients and obtain consent or face penalties.

State
South Carolina
Bill Number
S0788
Status
In Committee
Risk Level
High
Category
Sector-Specific
Last Action
Apr 30, 2026
Last Verified
May 29, 2026
Data Updated
May 29, 2026
Version
v2
What do these statuses mean?
Introduced — Filed in the legislature; not yet heard in committee
In Committee — Assigned to and being reviewed by a legislative committee
Passed — Approved by one or both chambers; awaiting further action
Signed / Enacted — Signed into law by the governor; may or may not be in effect yet
Dead / Vetoed — Vetoed, failed to pass, or session expired without action
Unknown — Status data not yet available or awaiting classification

Affected Industries

Mental Health Services Healthcare

Topics How we classify →

What This Means

The proposed legislation in South Carolina seeks to regulate the integration of artificial intelligence in therapy and psychotherapy services. It mandates that licensed professionals inform clients about AI usage and obtain their consent, specifically when sessions are recorded, while also prohibiting AI from making independent therapeutic decisions. This bill aims to ensure client confidentiality, with mentioned exceptions, and establish penalties for violations, impacting how therapy services are delivered in the state.

Key Provisions

Latest Legislative Action

Referred to Committee on Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs

Bill Sponsors

Name Role District
Sponsor SD-027
Sponsor SD-017
Sponsor SD-041

Roll Call Votes

S · Senate: 2nd Reading · Apr 28, 2026
44 Yea 0 Nay 2 Other Passed ✓

Compliance Checklist

Inform clients about AI usage and obtain written consent
Who: Licensed professionals providing therapy
Penalty: Up to $10,000 for violations
Ensure all records and communications are kept confidential
Who: Licensed professionals
Penalty: Up to $10,000 for violations

Full Legal Analysis

The bill establishes clear guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence in therapy and psychotherapy, specifically requiring that therapy services, including those using AI, be conducted by licensed professionals. It mandates that clients be informed about the use of AI and its purpose, ensuring transparency in therapeutic practices. Additionally, the bill prohibits AI from making independent therapeutic decisions, thereby maintaining the role of licensed professionals in the therapeutic process. The bill also requires client consent specifically when therapeutic sessions are recorded and mentions exceptions to the confidentiality requirement without detailing them. Non-compliance with these regulations can result in penalties, emphasizing the importance of adherence to the law. Key definitions provided in the bill clarify terms such as 'artificial intelligence,' 'licensed professional,' and 'therapeutic communication,' which are essential for understanding the scope of the legislation.

Official Source


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