(The Center Square) – A Tennessee committee tasked with studying artificial intelligence is recommending an expansion of the state’s artificial intelligence regulations beyond the first-of-its-kind bill passed by lawmakers in 2024.
The Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security Act, also known as the Elvis Act, was approved by lawmakers and signed by Gov. Bill Lee, making the unauthorized use of an artist’s image or voice a criminal misdemeanor. A spokesman for Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti said no one has been cited since the law took effect.
The law could be superseded if President Donald Trump decides to block states from regulating the technology.
Trump was reportedly considering an executive order that would have put the brakes on state laws. Skrmetti is one of 36 attorneys general signing a letter asking Trump not to issue a federal ban on state laws.
“It sounds like the executive order isn’t moving, but in any case I didn’t see anything in the draft that would affect Tennessee’s enforcement of AI-related laws, including the ELVIS Act,” Skrmetti said in a statement to The Center Square. “If any federal agency should unilaterally interfere with our ability to protect Tennessee kids, creators, and consumers from misconduct by AI companies, I will sue and I will win.”
The Tennessee Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council is recommending additional state policies that won’t “stifle innovation.”
“Overly restrictive rules could hinder AI developers, investors and infrastructure providers,” the council said in its report. “Given the rapid pace of AI advancement, it is more effective to rely on adaptable state policies and procedures for specific technology tools, design standards, and operational requirements. Instead of rigid mandates, Tennessee should adopt flexible policies that attract AI companies.”
The council is recommending an online platform that would serve as the state’s central hub for artificial intelligence. It would include information on policy, pending laws and educational resources, according to the report.
Each state cabinet agency or domain should have someone responsible for reporting on artificial intelligence, the council said.
Data centers are mentioned briefly in the recommendations. To support industry growth, companies should be encouraged “to establish long-term AI infrastructure (including data centers where appropriate), train a skilled workforce, and expand operations in Tennessee to stimulate economic growth. Reducing regulatory burdens will help ensure the state remains an attractive destination for AI infrastructure development,” the report said.
The recommendations were submitted to Lee, Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, and House Speaker Cameron Sexton.
“We are moving from planning to action,” said Kristin Darby, the council’s cochairwoman and Tennessee’s chief information officer. “Tennessee’s approach will balance innovation with oversight that accelerates progress while protecting citizen rights and privacy.”
