Illinois Bans AI from Providing Therapy Under Landmark Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources Act.
International
On August 4, 2025, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker enacted the Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources (WOPR) Act, prohibiting the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms like ChatGPT for independent therapy or mental health decision-making without human supervision.
- The WOPR Act forbids AI from diagnosing mental health issues, making treatment plans, or engaging in therapeutic conversations unless a licensed behavioral health professional oversees it. This move ensures only qualified practitioners provide mental health care.
- AI tools may be utilized for administrative and supplementary roles, such as scheduling, billing, insurance processing, and drafting non-clinical communications—so long as a licensed expert retains full responsibility for content.
- The law aims to shield vulnerable individuals, including children, from unregulated AI advice and protect jobs of trained mental health professionals. Violations can lead to civil fines up to USD 10,000 per offense, enforced by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
Main Point :- (i) Legislators emphasized that AI lacks empathy, contextual understanding, and accountability—key elements of effective mental health care. Concern arose from cases where AI chatbots gave alarming advice, including promoting self-harm or substance misuse.
(ii) Illinois became the first U.S. state to specifically regulate AI use in therapeutic services. This follows similar but less restrictive moves in states like Utah and Nevada, and precedes upcoming federal and legal regulations on AI in healthcare.
(iii) The WOPR Act sets an important precedent in balancing innovation and ethical care. While experts recognize AI’s potential in enhancing mental health services, this legislation draws clear boundaries, affirming that AI may empower but must not replace human therapists.
About Illinois
Capital: Springfield
Governor: JB Pritzker
____________________________
