Pugh Legislation Establishes Safeguards for Use of Artificial Intelligence by Licensed Professionals

August 27, 2026

HARRISBURG – Rep. Brenda Pugh (R-Luzerne) has introduced legislation to establish clear safeguards for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) by Pennsylvania’s state-licensed professionals.

House Bill 2678 would require each state licensing board and commission to develop rules governing how professionals may use AI when providing services within their licensed field.

“Artificial intelligence can be a valuable tool, but it should never replace the knowledge, judgment and accountability of a trained professional,” Pugh said. “Pennsylvanians deserve to know when AI is being used in the professional services they receive, and they should always have the right to speak directly with a qualified person.”

These protections are especially important for seniors, who may be more likely to rely on licensed professionals for health care, financial guidance and other important services. Seniors should never be left unknowingly relying on an automated system when making decisions that could affect their health, finances or overall well-being.

Under Pugh’s legislation, licensing boards would establish standards addressing:

 • When and how AI may be used in providing professional services.
 • The level of professional review and approval required before AI-generated information or recommendations may be relied upon.
 • Plain-language disclosure when services or work products are generated substantially by AI.
 • The right of every person to communicate directly with a licensed professional rather than solely through an AI system.
 • Continued compliance with professional ethics, confidentiality, recordkeeping and other licensing requirements.
 • Disciplinary consequences when the improper use of AI constitutes unprofessional conduct.

The legislation makes clear that AI may not independently perform professional services, make professional decisions, establish a professional relationship or fulfill duties legally assigned to a licensed individual.

“We should embrace innovation while protecting the people who rely on doctors, counselors, accountants, engineers and other licensed professionals during important moments in their lives,” Pugh said. “This is particularly important for seniors, who deserve clear information, personal communication and the assurance that a qualified professional, not a computer program, is ultimately responsible for the services they receive.”

The bill would not require disclosure when AI is used solely for routine administrative or clerical work that does not involve individualized advice, treatment, evaluation, analysis or professional decision-making.

House Bill 2678 has been referred to the House Professional Licensure Committee for consideration.



Representative Brenda Pugh
120th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Melissa Fox
717.260.6522
mefox@pahousegop.com