Missouri Bans AI Therapy Chatbots as States Ramp Up AI Legislation
Missouri moves to outlaw AI mental health chatbots while multiple states pass sweeping AI regulations.
Missouri lawmakers adjourned sine die on May 15 after passing SB 1019, which prohibits offering AI therapy chatbots as part of healthcare provisions. The bill now sits with the governor for signature. This move reflects growing concerns about the safety and efficacy of AI-driven mental health tools, particularly for vulnerable populations. If signed, Missouri would become one of the first states to explicitly ban such chatbots, setting a precedent for AI regulation in healthcare.
Other states also made significant AI legislative strides. Minnesota sent HF 4138 to Governor Walz, requiring social media platforms to verify ages and obtain parental consent for minors. South Carolina's Governor McMaster signed H 4591, the Stop Harm From Addictive Social Media Act, which similarly targets minors' online safety. Vermont Governor Scott enacted H 814, recognizing personal neurological rights—a pioneering step in neurotechnology and AI privacy. Meanwhile, California's annual suspense vote advanced roughly 30 AI-related bills, including AB 1159 (student privacy), AB 1609 (customer service chatbots), and AB 1651 (AI in bar exams), now crossing into their secondary chambers.
- Missouri SB 1019 prohibits offering AI therapy chatbots, awaiting governor's signature after May 15 adjournment.
- South Carolina enacted H 4591 (Stop Harm From Addictive Social Media Act) on May 19, requiring age verification and parental consent for minors.
- Vermont recognized personal neurological rights via H 814, signed by Governor Scott last week.
Why It Matters
States are rapidly defining boundaries for AI in healthcare, social media, and neurotechnology—reshaping how companies deploy these technologies.