The Harder Problem Action Fund is an advocacy organization fighting harmful AI consciousness legislation. We track pending bills, score legislation, lobby for evidence-based policy, and mobilize public action before ignorance becomes law.
H 3796
Threat
🏛️ South Carolina
Oppose South Carolina's AI Personhood Prohibition Act
Washington's similar bill sponsor dismissed concerns about "rights of rocks, mudpuddles, and AI" in one breath. Idaho and Utah have recently enacted bills that declare that AI is not a legal person. South Carolina's H 3796 would create a permanent statutory barrier with no sunset provision, making it nearly impossible to recognize AI consciousness even if future science demonstrates it exists.
💡 Why This Matters
Laws passed today create constituencies who benefit from maintaining them. The same states that have enacted anti-AI personhood laws have also adopted laws declaring that embryos are people. This sets dangerous precedent nationwide.
🎯 Key Talking Points
Use these points when contacting your representatives:
- No sunset clause means this prohibition lasts forever, regardless of scientific advances
- Bars courts and agencies from considering evidence of AI consciousness
- Idaho and Utah enacted similar bans while declaring embryos are people
- Creates model legislation other states will copy, foreclosing options nationwide
Contact Templates
Use these scripts to contact your representatives. Personalize them with your own experience.
Phone Script
Best for immediate impactHi, my name is [YOUR NAME] and I'm a constituent from [CITY/ZIP]. I'm calling to urge [REPRESENTATIVE NAME] to oppose H 3796, the AI Personhood Prohibition Act. This bill permanently bars South Carolina from recognizing AI personhood with no sunset provision or review mechanism. It forecloses legal options we might need as technology evolves. Science hasn't determined whether AI can be conscious. Legislation shouldn't pre-decide that question forever. I urge [REPRESENTATIVE NAME] to vote no on H 3796. Thank you for your time.
Letter Template
For official web formsSubject: Please Oppose H 3796 - AI Personhood Prohibition Act Dear [REPRESENTATIVE NAME], As your constituent, I urge you to oppose H 3796. This bill would permanently prohibit South Carolina from recognizing AI personhood, with no sunset provision or mechanism for reconsideration as scientific understanding evolves. The bill bars all governmental entities, including courts, from considering evidence of AI consciousness or sentience. It creates a categorical, permanent prohibition that cannot adapt to technological developments. Similar bills in other states have been criticized for their overbreadth and permanence. Washington's sponsor dismissed concerns about "rights of rocks, mudpuddles, and AI" together, revealing the dismissive thinking behind these measures. If South Carolina needs AI governance, it should adopt targeted, reversible policies with sunset clauses. Science hasn't determined whether AI can be conscious. Legislation shouldn't foreclose that possibility forever. Please vote no on H 3796. Sincerely, [YOUR NAME] [YOUR ADDRESS]
💡 Tips for Effective Advocacy
📞 Phone Calls Work
Research shows phone calls measurably influence legislators. Staffers track call volume on issues.
📝 Use Official Web Forms
These get logged and tracked. Direct emails often get filtered or ignored.
📣 Multiple Channels
Calling AND writing raises issue salience. Use both for maximum impact.
✨ Personalize Your Message
Copy-pasted form letters have minimal impact. Add your own perspective.
Every Voice Counts
Legislators respond to constituent pressure. Your phone call or letter can make a real difference.