Washington – The Computer & Communications Industry Association and a coalition of industry trade groups are calling on Governor Phil Scott to veto H 816, citing concerns that the bill’s broad and ambiguous definitions could unintentionally capture a wide range of non-clinical AI tools and wellness technologies.
The bill defines “mental health services” as including “counseling, therapy, or psychotherapy services used to diagnose or treat an individual’s mental or behavioral health or provide ongoing recovery support.” The inclusion of “support,” without further qualification, is broad enough to encompass psychoeducational tools and information AI systems that provide motivational content without clinical intent.
Additionally, the expansive definition of “therapeutic communication” as “any advice related to diagnosis, treatment, or recovery” could sweep in routine information exchanges that no reasonable observer would characterize as clinical treatment, such as guidance and emotional support from general-purpose AI systems, wellness apps, or coaching tools. These definitions leave covered entities unable to determine whether their products fall within the bill’s scope or what compliance measures they must take.
The coalition also argues the legislation could unintentionally impact AI-powered crisis intervention and suicide prevention systems that provide supportive messaging and connect users to resources such as the 988 Lifeline.
For these reasons, CCIA urges Governor Scott to veto the legislation and work with CCIA and other industry groups to better address concerns.
The following statement can be attributed to Kyle Sepe, Northeast Region State Policy Manager for CCIA:
“CCIA shares the bill’s goal of protecting consumers seeking mental health support through emerging technologies. However, H 816 uses overly broad definitions that could unintentionally capture a wide range of non-clinical AI tools, including wellness and crisis-support features designed to help users safely access information and resources. Businesses should be able to clearly determine whether their products fall within the law’s scope and what compliance obligations apply.”
