New York has proposed legislation that would ban AI-powered chatbots from providing users with dental, medical, and legal advice, and it would make AI companies liable if they violate the law.
Recently, the state's senate internet and technology committee passed SB S7263, which targets chatbots that imitate licensed professionals, such as dentists, and prevents them from providing information or advice, including medical diagnoses, that conflict with professional licensing laws. Chatbots are defined as artificial intelligence systems, software programs, or technological applications that “simulate human-like conversation and interaction.”
Additionally, the legislation would require companies like Anthropic and OpenAI to “provide clear, conspicuous and explicit notice to users that they are interacting with an artificial intelligence chatbot program,” according to the bill.
However, even if companies provide the required notice to users, they are still responsible for the information or advice their chatbots provide.
If the bill is signed into law, a person could file a lawsuit against an AI company if it is determined they violated the law. And the AI company would be liable for damages, costs, and attorneys’ fees, according to the legislation.
Currently, the bill applies to the professions of medicine, veterinary medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, pharmacy, nursing, podiatry, optometry, engineering, architecture, and social work. It does not apply to psychology and mental health services.
