Florida Becomes First State to Partner with AI Safety Group on Harms Reporting and Counselor Training

In a landmark development for AI safety, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has directed state agencies to collaborate with the Future of Life Institute (FLI) to create tools addressing psychological and social harms from AI companion applications. Announced on March 9, 2026, this initiative introduces the nation's first Crisis Counselor Training Curriculum tailored to AI-related distress and a statewide AI Harms Reporting Form. The partnership targets risks such as emotional dependency and behavioral issues in children and communities interacting with AI chatbots.

This marks the first formal state-level alliance between a U.S. governor's office and a leading AI safety organization. Florida is pioneering these measures as the first state—and first government worldwide—to develop specialized training for mental health professionals to identify and mitigate AI-induced harms. The reporting form will enable public submissions directly to state authorities, providing data to shape future regulations and protections.

The collaboration responds to growing concerns over AI companions fostering unhealthy attachments, particularly among vulnerable populations like minors. By equipping counselors with targeted skills, the program aims to intervene early in cases of AI-related psychological harm. This structured approach underscores a proactive stance on AI governance at the state level.

FLI, known for its advocacy in AI risk mitigation, brings expertise to the table, helping Florida build credible mechanisms for harm detection and response. The initiative highlights a shift toward practical, community-focused AI safety measures amid rapid technological advancement.

As AI integration deepens into daily life, Florida's move sets a precedent for other states, potentially accelerating nationwide efforts to balance innovation with safeguards against emerging AI risks.