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Bill

H 814

An act relating to neurological rights and the use of artificial intelligence technology in health and human services

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Daisy Berbeco and 13 co-sponsors

Vermont law requires health providers to obtain informed consent before using AI in service decisions and to disclose when AI influences individual healthcare or benefits determinations.

House message: Governor approved bill on May 18, 2026
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Bill Summary · H 814

Legislative bill overview

H 814 establishes "neurological rights" as a protected class in Vermont and creates regulations governing the use of artificial intelligence technology in health and human services delivery. The bill requires informed consent before AI systems can be used to make or inform decisions affecting individuals' access to services, and mandates disclosure of when AI is being utilized in clinical or administrative decisions.

Why this is important

As AI increasingly influences healthcare decisions—from diagnosis support to service eligibility determinations—this bill addresses concerns about algorithmic bias, accountability, and patient autonomy. Vermont would become among the first states to legally protect individuals from undisclosed or non-consensual AI decision-making in health services, setting a precedent for AI governance in healthcare.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden: Healthcare providers and human services agencies may face significant compliance costs and administrative complexity in obtaining consent and documenting AI use across existing systems
  • Definition ambiguity: "Neurological rights" is a novel legal concept without established precedent, potentially creating uncertainty about scope and enforcement
  • Innovation concerns: Strict consent and disclosure requirements could slow adoption of beneficial AI tools or push healthcare systems to avoid AI implementation entirely, potentially limiting access to advanced diagnostic capabilities
  • Enforceability questions: The bill's mechanisms for monitoring compliance and penalizing violations in a decentralized healthcare system remain unclear

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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