Chatbot Laws · verified Oct. 21, 2026
No one may offer therapy or psychotherapy to the public, including through internet-based AI, unless a licensed professional provides it. Licensed therapists may use AI only for administrative or supplementary support; supplementary use needs a recorded session, written notice and client consent, and AI may not make therapeutic decisions or talk with clients therapeutically.
Who must comply
Any person offering therapy to the public (§ 1500-EE) and Maine-licensed therapists and behavioral health professionals under the listed Title 32 chapters. AI interventions inside IRB-approved research are exempt.
What it requires
| Therapy and licensed titles | Only licensed professionals may provide or advertise therapy to the public, including via AI. Licensees may not allow AI to make independent therapeutic decisions, engage clients directly in therapeutic communication, or generate treatment plans without their review; supplementary AI support needs recording, written notice and client consent.10 M.R.S. § 1500-EE; 32 M.R.S. § 2113 and parallel sections |
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Enforcement
| Enforced by | Maine Unfair Trade Practices Act remedies (§ 1500-EE) and Licensing boards (Title 32 sections)§ 1500-EE; Title 32 sections |
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| Private lawsuits | Not stated |
| Penalties | Section 1500-EE violations are violations of the Maine Unfair Trade Practices Act; licensee violations bring board discipline under 10 M.R.S. § 8003(5). The act states no dollar amounts. Clients keep other legal remedies, including negligence claims. |
Key dates
- Limits on AI therapy and AI use by licensed therapists take effect
Related laws
- Maine LD 1727AI transparency in consumer transactionsIn effect since Sept. 24, 2025
Sources
- Maine Legislature LD 2082 page Supports: enactment and signing April 13, 2026, Chapter 687.
- Chaptered law, Chapter 687 Supports: text.
- Maine Legislative Digest, Second Regular Session Supports: adjourned sine die April 29, 2026; non-emergency laws effective July 29, 2026.