Image Credit: TN General Assembly
The Tennessee Conservative [By Olivia Lupia] –
After going through several rounds of amendments, a bill which will ensure that artificial intelligence (AI) cannot be granted personhood in Tennessee law passed the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday, March 24.
Initially, SB0837 redefined “person” and added a new subdivision describing what a “human being” and “life” specifically meant. But after objections from Democrats over the inclusion of words like “fetus” and “unborn child” and hesitations by many Republicans who believed the new definitions could negatively impact the IVF industry, the bill now carries streamlined verbiage which simply clarifies that the definition of “person” already found in Tennessee law cannot include AI or machines.
During the committee meeting, bill sponsor Sen. Mark Pody (R-Lebanon-District 17) also explained that the bill’s definition of AI includes computer algorithms, software, computer hardware, or any type of machine.
Other than a comment from Sen. Bobby Harshbarger commending Sen. Pody for his willingness to adapt and rework the bill, there was no further discussion before the committee voted 8-0 in favor of advancing the revamped legislation. Only one member, a Democrat, chose to mark herself “Present Not Voting”.
SB0837 will now proceed to the Senate Calendar Committee to be set on the full Senate calendar.
The House companion, HB0849 by Rep. Michele Reneau (R-Signal Mountain-District 27), passed out of the House Civil Justice Subcommittee last week.
This version of the bill also carries the same amendments as SB0837 restructuring and simplifying the language so it is singly focused on ensuring AI cannot carry personhood under Tennessee laws.
HB0849 is set to be heard in the full Judiciary Committee, likely sometime this week or next as committees are starting to close as the end of the legislative session draws closer.
About the Author: Olivia Lupia is a political refugee from Colorado who now calls Tennessee home. A proud follower of Christ, she views all political happenings through a Biblical lens and aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to educate and equip others. Olivia is an outspoken conservative who has run for local office, managed campaigns, and been highly involved with state & local GOPs, state legislatures, and other grassroots organizations and movements. Olivia can be reached at olivia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.
