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HB 281

Use of Artificial Intelligence in Psychological, Clinical, Counseling, and Therapy Services

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Christine Hunschofsky and 1 co-sponsor

HB 281 prohibits AI in therapy while allowing its use for administrative tasks, ensuring human interaction remains central to mental health care in Florida.

Now in Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee
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Bill Summary · HB 281

Summary of HB 281: Use of Artificial Intelligence in Psychological, Clinical, Counseling, and Therapy Services

Bill Number: HB 281
Introduced: October 28, 2025
Current Status: Now in Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee
Effective Date: July 1, 2026
Primary Sponsor: Hunschofsky

Purpose and Intent

HB 281 aims to regulate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) within the fields of psychology, clinical social work, marriage and family therapy, and mental health counseling in Florida. The bill seeks to ensure that AI does not replace human judgment and interaction in therapeutic settings, while still allowing for its use in certain supportive administrative functions.

Key Provisions

Definition of Artificial Intelligence

  • The bill defines artificial intelligence as any machine-based system that can infer outputs from inputs to generate content, decisions, predictions, or recommendations that may influence environments.

Prohibitions on AI Use

  • General Prohibition: The use of AI in the practice of psychology, clinical social work, marriage and family therapy, and mental health counseling is generally prohibited.

Exceptions for AI Use

  • Administrative Support: Licensees may use AI for:

    • Managing appointment scheduling and reminders.
    • Drafting general communications related to therapy logistics (excluding therapeutic advice).
    • Processing billing and insurance claims.
    • Preparing and managing patient records.
    • Analyzing data for operational purposes.

  • Session Recording: Licensees, registered interns, or certificate holders may use AI to record or transcribe therapy sessions, provided they obtain written, informed consent from the client at least 24 hours prior to the session.

Impact

Affected Parties

  • Mental Health Professionals: Psychologists, clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists, and mental health counselors will be directly impacted by the restrictions and allowances set forth in this bill.
  • Clients: Clients receiving therapy services will benefit from the assurance that AI will not replace human interaction in their care.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill has been referred to multiple subcommittees, including the Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee, Information Technology Budget & Policy Subcommittee, and Health & Human Services Committee, indicating a thorough review process ahead of its potential enactment.

Conclusion

HB 281 represents a significant step in regulating the intersection of technology and mental health services in Florida. By prohibiting the use of AI in direct therapeutic practices while allowing its application in administrative tasks, the bill aims to maintain the integrity of mental health care while embracing technological advancements. The effective date of the bill is set for July 1, 2026, pending further legislative action.

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

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