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AI Summary
This bill clarifies that 'person' does not include AI, algorithms, software, hardware, or machines in Tennessee law.
Business Impact
If you develop or use AI 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
Tennessee's HB 849 clarifies the legal definition of 'person' to explicitly exclude artificial intelligence and related technologies. This legislative move defines the legal status of AI systems.
Key Provisions
- Defines 'person' to exclude artificial intelligence and related technologies.
- Amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 1.
- Clarifies legal boundaries for AI and machine entities.
Latest Legislative Action
Comp. became Pub. Ch. 781
Bill Sponsors (showing 5 of 7)
| Name | Role | District |
|---|---|---|
| Chris Todd R | Sponsor | HD-073 |
| Dennis Powers R | Sponsor | HD-036 |
| Esther Helton-Haynes R | Sponsor | HD-030 |
| Gino Bulso R | Sponsor | HD-061 |
| Jay Reedy R | Sponsor | HD-074 |
Roll Call Votes
H ·
HOUSE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE: Rec. for pass. if am., ref. to Calendar & Rules Committee ·
Apr 1, 2026
17 Yea
0 Nay
2 Other
Passed ✓
H ·
HOUSE CIVIL JUSTICE SUBCOMMITTEE: Rec for pass if am by s/c ref. to Judiciary Committee ·
Mar 18, 2026
6 Yea
0 Nay
1 Other
Passed ✓
Amendments (2)
SA0922
Pending
2026-03-30
HA0979
Pending
2026-04-01
Compliance Checklist
Review and update legal definitions in company policies regarding AI.
Who: Legal and compliance teams.
Penalty: Potential legal ambiguities if not updated.
Who: Legal and compliance teams.
Penalty: Potential legal ambiguities if not updated.
Related & Companion Bills
Full Legal Analysis
HB 849 amends the Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 1, to clarify that the term 'person' does not encompass artificial intelligence, computer algorithms, software programs, computer hardware, or any type of machine. This legislative change establishes a clear legal boundary regarding the status of AI and related technologies. While the bill does not directly impose new compliance or liability requirements on businesses, it is important for companies utilizing AI technologies to be aware of this definition. The bill does not specify penalties for non-compliance, as it primarily serves to clarify definitions rather than impose new obligations. This amendment aligns with similar legislative trends in other states that seek to define the legal status of AI.
Official Source
Official Bill Text
View HB 849 on official legislature website →
Affected Industries
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