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IL WOPR Act

Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources Act

Illinois law prohibiting licensed professionals from using AI systems to make independent therapeutic decisions, directly interact with clients in therapeutic communication, or detect emotions/mental states. AI limited to administrative and supplementary support with licensed professional oversight.

Jurisdiction

Illinois

Enacted

Aug 1, 2025

Effective

Aug 1, 2025

Enforcement

Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR)

Public Act 104-0054; enacted and effective immediately

Illinois General Assembly

Why It Matters

Establishes critical precedent for mental health AI regulation. Defines clear boundaries: AI can provide administrative support and crisis detection/referrals but cannot replace licensed professionals in therapeutic decision-making or emotion detection. Prohibits AI from making independent mental health treatment decisions.

Recent Developments

First state law to explicitly prohibit AI from making independent therapeutic decisions and detecting emotions/mental states. Enacted August 1, 2025 with immediate effect.

At a Glance

Applies to

Mental Health App

Who Must Comply

  • Licensed mental health professionals in Illinois
  • Therapy and psychotherapy service providers
  • AI systems used in mental health care settings

Safety Provisions

  • AI cannot make independent therapeutic decisions
  • AI cannot directly interact with clients in therapeutic communication
  • AI cannot generate therapeutic recommendations or treatment plans without licensed professional review
  • AI cannot detect emotions or mental states
  • Written consent required if client sessions are recorded/transcribed for AI use
  • Clear disclosure to clients about AI use and specific purpose

Compliance & Enforcement

Key Dates

Aug 1, 2025

Law takes effect immediately

Penalties

$10K/violation

View on map

Illinois

Focus Areas

Mental health & crisis
Child safety
Algorithmic accountability
Active safeguards required

Compliance Help

Licensed professionals must maintain oversight of all AI systems used in mental health settings. AI is explicitly prohibited from making therapeutic decisions, detecting emotions, or interacting directly with clients in therapeutic contexts. Written informed consent required for any AI use involving client data.

See how NOPE helps

Cite This

APA

Illinois. (2025). Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources Act.

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Last updated February 17, 2026. Verify against primary sources before relying on this information.