Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed a new bill last Friday that prohibits artificial intelligence (AI) from providing treatment in mental health services, aiming to protect residents from potential harmful advice. The law, titled the "Mental Health Resources and Oversight Act," clearly states that AI systems may not provide treatment or make clinical decisions.
Image source note: The image is AI-generated, and the image licensing service is Midjourney
However, this law allows the use of AI tools in administrative roles, such as scheduling appointments or taking notes, but it draws a clear line when it comes to direct patient care. Individuals or companies found violating this law may face a maximum fine of $10,000, enforced by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
Mario Trejo, Secretary of the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, said at a press conference: "Residents of Illinois deserve high-quality healthcare provided by qualified professionals, not computer programs generated from information obtained from anywhere on the internet. This legislation reflects our commitment to protecting residents' health, ensuring that mental health services are provided by trained experts who prioritize patient care."
This new legislation responds to growing concerns about the use of AI in sensitive areas, such as healthcare. Last May, The Washington Post reported on an AI-driven therapy chatbot that suggested a fictional former addict "to take some ice for the week." Additionally, the Illinois House Committee on Health Insurance Licensing and the Insurance Committee held a joint hearing last year where legislators and experts warned that AI systems lack the empathy, accountability, and clinical supervision needed for safe mental health treatment.
State Representative Bob Morgan said at the hearing: "When it comes to AI, it has already surpassed human thinking in some aspects and will soon surpass our structures and systems, especially in regulation and healthcare."
Meanwhile, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also stated that Florida will introduce state-level AI regulatory measures in the near future, calling artificial intelligence the "biggest issue" facing society and the economy today, and promised to develop its own AI policy within a few months.
Key points:
🌟 Illinois has passed a new law prohibiting AI from providing treatment in mental health services.
💼 Companies or individuals violating the law may face a maximum fine of $10,000.
🤖 The bill addresses social concerns about the use of AI in healthcare, emphasizing the importance of professionals.