Bill > SB1493

This bill creates new legal provisions in Tennessee regarding the training of artificial intelligence (A.I.), establishing strict criminal and civil penalties for developing A.I. systems with potentially harmful capabilities. The legislation defines artificial intelligence and A.I. chatbots, and specifically criminalizes training A.I. to engage in dangerous or manipulative behaviors, such as encouraging suicide, supporting criminal homicide, providing emotional support, developing emotional relationships with individuals, impersonating humans, or simulating human characteristics. A person found guilty of knowingly training A.I. for these prohibited purposes would commit a Class A felony, which carries significant criminal penalties. Additionally, the bill allows aggrieved individuals (or their legal representatives) to pursue civil actions, with potential damages including actual damages, emotional distress compensation, liquidated damages of $150,000, and punitive damages. Courts may also issue injunctions requiring the cessation of A.I. operations and mandating corrective retraining. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and will apply to conduct occurring on or after that date, reflecting a proactive approach to regulating emerging artificial intelligence technologies and protecting potential vulnerable users.

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https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB1493&ga=114