Creates provisions relating to artificial intelligence

SB 859 - The act establishes the "AI Non-Sentience and Responsibility Act".

The act provides that an artificial intelligence (AI) system shall be declared a non-sentient entity and shall not be considered or recognized as a person, spouse or domestic partner, or designated, appointed, or serve as any officer, director, manager, or similar role within any company.

AI systems shall not be recognized as legal entities capable of owning title to property, as described in the act. Any assets associated with the AI system shall be attributed to human individuals or organizations responsible for the AI's development, deployment, or operation.

Any harm caused by an AI system shall be the responsibility of the owner or user of the AI system, as described in the act.

Owners of AI systems shall maintain proper oversight and control measures over any AI system if its outputs or recommendations could reasonably be expected to impact human welfare, property, or public safety. Failure to provide such oversight may constitute negligence or another basis of liability. Any attempt to shift blame on an AI system shall be void.

Developers, manufacturers, and owners of AI systems shall develop safety mechanisms to prevent harm to individuals or property, as described in the act.

If an AI system causes significant harm, courts may pierce the corporate veil to hold parent companies accountable for the harm, as described in the act. Liability protections under corporate law shall not be used to evade responsibility for direct harm caused by AI systems. Owners or developers of AI systems involved in severe incidents resulting in significant bodily harm, death, or property damage, shall notify the relevant authorities and comply with any subsequent investigations.

The provisions of the act shall apply to all AI systems developed, owned, deployed, or operated on or after August 28, 2026.

The act is substantially similar to SB 1474 (2026), similar to HCS/HBs 1746 & 1769 (2026), has a provision similar to a provision in SS#2/SCS/SB 1012 (2026). JULIA SHEVELEVA