Bill Responds to AI Chatbots on ballots, robot CEOs, and tragic deaths linked to AI companions NASHVILLE, Tenn. — State Rep. Michele Reneau, R-Signal Mountain, and State Sen. Mark Pody, R-Lebanon, have filed legislation to exclude artificial intelligence (AI), algorithms and machines from the legal definition of “person” in Tennessee. House Bill 849 / Senate […]
Bill Responds to AI Chatbots on ballots, robot CEOs, and tragic deaths linked to AI companions
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — State Rep. Michele Reneau, R-Signal Mountain, and State Sen. Mark Pody, R-Lebanon, have filed legislation to exclude artificial intelligence (AI), algorithms and machines from the legal definition of “person” in Tennessee.
House Bill 849 / Senate Bill 837 would amend state law to specify that artificial intelligence, computer algorithms, software programs, computer hardware, and any type of machine do not qualify as “persons,” “life,” or “natural persons” under Tennessee law.
The legislation comes as AI technology continues its rapid expansion into areas previously reserved for human beings. AI-powered robots have been appointed as corporate chief executives, including at a major international company. AI chatbots have appeared on election ballots, with candidates in Wyoming and abroad attempting to run AI systems for public office. Meanwhile, tragic incidents have made national headlines involving individuals who formed intense emotional attachments to AI chatbots, with cases resulting in suicide, including teenagers who developed unhealthy relationships with AI companions that encouraged self-harm.
“In just the last 12 months, AI has advanced at a breathtaking pace. From chatbots now appearing on ballots to companies exploring AI ‘CEOs.’ We’ve also seen heartbreaking incidents where people formed intense emotional attachments to AI, with tragic outcomes including suicide or unhealthy relationships,” said Reneau. “This legislation draws clear legal boundaries to protect inalienable rights that belong to humans, not databases, computers, or artificial intelligence.”
Pody emphasized the importance of acting early, before technology outpaces the law.
“As AI continues to develop, states have a responsibility to clearly define what life actually is,” said Pody. “This legislation helps draw an important line between man-made systems, artificial intelligence, and God-created life. Technology can be powerful, but it is not alive in the way humans are. Setting these distinctions now while AI is still in its infancy protects human dignity and ensures innovation serves people, not replaces or redefines them.”
The bill would amend current law to clarify that while corporations, firms, companies and associations may be considered “persons” for certain legal purposes, AI systems and machines may not.
“Tennessee has an opportunity to lead the nation on this issue,” Reneau said. “We look forward to working with our colleagues to get this common-sense protection across the finish line this session.”
State Rep. Michele Reneau represents District 27 in the Tennessee House of Representatives. State Sen. Mark Pody represents District 17 in the Tennessee Senate.