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AI Summary
SB 837 clarifies that 'person' does not include AI, algorithms, software, or machines in Tennessee law.
Business Impact
If you operate AI systems in Tennessee, you must ensure compliance with personhood definitions to avoid legal ambiguities.
What do these statuses mean? ▼
Introduced
— Filed in the legislature; not yet heard in committee
In Committee
— Assigned to and being reviewed by a legislative committee
Passed
— Approved by one or both chambers; awaiting further action
Signed / Enacted
— Signed into law by the governor; may or may not be in effect yet
Dead / Vetoed
— Vetoed, failed to pass, or session expired without action
Unknown
— Status data not yet available or awaiting classification
Affected Industries
What This Means
SB 837 is a significant legislative measure in Tennessee that clarifies the legal status of artificial intelligence and related technologies. By explicitly stating that AI, algorithms, and machines are not considered persons, the bill aims to delineate the rights and responsibilities of entities using such technologies.
Key Provisions
- Defines 'person' to exclude artificial intelligence and related technologies.
- Clarifies legal status of AI, algorithms, and machines in Tennessee law.
Latest Legislative Action
Effective date(s) 04/23/2026
Bill Sponsors
| Name | Role | District |
|---|---|---|
| Janince Bowling R | Sponsor | SD-016 |
| Mark Pody R | Sponsor | SD-017 |
| Todd Gardenhire R | Sponsor | SD-010 |
Roll Call Votes
H ·
Floor Vote: VOTE: REGULAR CALENDAR PASSAGE ON THIRD CONSIDERATION ·
Apr 8, 2026
93 Yea
2 Nay
Passed ✓
S ·
Floor Vote: VOTE: as Amended Third Consideration ·
Apr 6, 2026
26 Yea
6 Nay
Passed ✓
S ·
SENATE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE: Recommended for passage with amendment/s, refer to Senate Calendar Committee Ayes 8, Nays 1 PNV 0 ·
Mar 24, 2026
8 Yea
1 Nay
Passed ✓
Amendments (1)
SA0922
Pending
2026-03-30
Compliance Checklist
Review and update legal definitions in company policies
Who: All businesses using AI in Tennessee
Penalty: Potential legal ambiguities if not updated
Who: All businesses using AI in Tennessee
Penalty: Potential legal ambiguities if not updated
Related & Companion Bills
Full Legal Analysis
SB 837 amends the Tennessee Code Annotated to clarify the definition of 'person' by explicitly excluding artificial intelligence, computer algorithms, software programs, computer hardware, and any type of machine from this designation. This legislative change is significant as it establishes a clear legal framework regarding the status of AI and related technologies. The bill does not impose specific compliance requirements or penalties for non-compliance, as it primarily serves to clarify existing legal definitions. This clarity is particularly important for businesses in the technology sector, as it helps mitigate potential legal risks associated with the use of AI and automated systems.
Official Source
Official Bill Text
View SB 837 on official legislature website →
Affected Industries
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