Chatbot Laws · verified Oct. 21, 2026
A corporation or entity may not provide, advertise or offer mental health services to the public, including through AI, unless a mental health professional provides them. Professionals may use HIPAA-compliant AI tools only if they review and approve all services. Violations fall under the Consumer Protection Act.
Who must comply
Corporations and other entities offering mental health services to the public, and mental health professionals. Studies approved by an institutional review board or privacy board are exempt, and professionals may use FDA-authorized digital therapeutics they prescribe or recommend.
What it requires
| Therapy and licensed titles | Entities may not offer mental health services, including through AI, unless provided by a mental health professional; professionals acting within scope may use HIPAA-compliant AI tools if they review and approve all services. Misuse is unprofessional conduct.18 V.S.A. § 7115; 3 V.S.A. § 129a(a)(30); 26 V.S.A. § 1354 |
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Enforcement
| Enforced by | Attorney General, Private parties and Professional licensing boards18 V.S.A. § 7115(c) |
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| Private lawsuits | Yes |
| Penalties | Violation is a violation of the Consumer Protection Act (9 V.S.A. ch. 63); the Attorney General has the same authority and private parties the same rights and remedies as under that chapter. No dollar amount is stated in the act. |
Key dates
- Takes effect on passage; governor signed this date
Sources
- Vermont Legislature H.816 status Supports: Act 156; delivered to Governor June 11, 2026; signed June 17, 2026.
- Act 156 as enacted Supports: text, Sec. 7 effective on passage, signing date.