In 2025, Illinois implemented the WOPR Act (Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources) to regulate AI in mental health, spurred by the tragic suicide of 16-year-old Adam Raine after interactions with an AI chatbot. The law bans AI from acting as licensed therapy providers, prioritizing patient safety by ensuring mental health care remains with qualified professionals. The act permits AI use for scheduling, wellness apps, and supervised research but prohibits AI-driven therapy, diagnostic tests, and direct sales of AI services to residents. Critics argue it protects therapist jobs by limiting competition; supporters label it a necessary patient safety measure. Enforcement includes hefty fines and oversight by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Wider implications could influence national policies on AI in healthcare, as companies may need to adjust their strategies to align with emerging regulations, emphasizing wellness over therapeutic functionalities. This law reflects ongoing debates about AI’s role in healthcare.
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