SB 859 — The AI Non-Sentience and Responsibility Act

SB 859 establishes the AI Non-Sentience and Responsibility Act, which declares AI systems as non-sentient entities and prohibits them from being recognized as legal persons or holding roles in companies. The act holds AI system owners or users responsible for any harm caused by AI systems and requires proper oversight and safety mechanisms to prevent harm. It also allows courts to pierce corporate veils to hold parent companies accountable for significant AI-caused harm. The provisions apply to AI systems developed or operated on or after August 28, 2026.