Kansas Board reviews regulations on artificial intelligence amid federal preemption concerns

The Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board (BSRB) is gearing up for a significant conversation about the regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) in addiction counseling. During the Addiction Counseling Advisory Committee meeting on June 3, 2025, members discussed the complexities surrounding potential federal legislation that could limit states' ability to regulate AI for up to ten years. This federal preemption could hinder Kansas's efforts to establish guidelines for AI use in the field.

The committee emphasized the importance of ongoing discussions about AI, despite the uncertainty surrounding federal regulations. "We want to make sure that we approach this the right way," one member stated, highlighting the need for careful consideration and preparation. The committee plans to keep AI on the agenda, aiming to develop recommendations for the BSRB by the end of the year.

Members expressed concerns about the ethical implications of AI in addiction counseling, noting that many clients are already using AI tools like chatbots for support. "How can we use it ethically and responsibly?" one member asked, stressing the need for guardrails to ensure privacy and mitigate bias in AI systems.

In addition to AI discussions, the committee reviewed a draft report on a recent survey of addiction counselors in Kansas. The survey, which opened in January 2025, aims to gather insights into the addiction counseling workforce and inform future regulatory decisions. The committee plans to analyze the survey results further and share a comprehensive report in the coming months.

As the landscape of addiction counseling evolves, the BSRB is committed to staying informed and proactive in addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by AI technology. The ongoing dialogue within the committee reflects a broader recognition of the need for responsible integration of AI in mental health practices.