In 2026, five states enacted laws restricting AI therapy chatbots, joining Illinois and Nevada, which adopted similar measures last year, according to the Transparency Coalition’s 2026 Mid-Year State AI Legislation Report. The bans largely rely on states’ authority to license mental health professionals.
Here are five to know:
1. Colorado law prohibits AI therapy chatbots and restricts licensed psychologists, counselors, social workers, marriage and family therapists, and other psychotherapy providers from using AI in specified ways. The law was enacted June 3 and takes effect Aug. 12, 2026.
2. Maine legislation prohibits AI from providing therapy or psychotherapy services. Offering AI therapy without a licensed professional is considered an unfair trade practice under state law. The law was enacted April 13 and takes effect July 29, 2026.
3. Rhode Island legislation prohibits individuals and businesses from providing or advertising therapy services unless they are conducted by a licensed professional. The law also bars licensed providers from using AI to make independent therapeutic decisions or treatment plans. It was enacted June 22 and takes effect Jan. 1, 2027.
4. Tennessee law prohibits people or organizations from developing or deploying AI systems that advertise or represent themselves as qualified mental health professionals. The law was enacted April 1 and takes effect July 1, 2026.
5. Vermont legislation prohibits AI systems from independently delivering mental health services, stating the law is intended to ensure those services are provided by mental health professionals rather than AI systems. The measure was enacted and took effect June 17, 2026.
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