Senate panel approves bill to ban AI teachers in Illinois colleges

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO) — An Illinois legislator has introduced a bill that would ban colleges from employing AI teachers in the future.

“AI is a tool, not a teacher,” said Sen. Mike Porfirio (D-Lyons Township). “Illinois must stay proactive when it comes to cutting-edge technology. This measure would protect the jobs of our teachers, and secure a legitimate education for our students.”

Porfirio co-sponsored House Bill 1859, which would prohibit community colleges from using artificial intelligence as the sole source of instruction in place of a human faculty member.

The bill allows teachers to use AI to aid in coursework. According to a recent study, 25% of teachers use some form of artificial intelligence in the classroom.

In 2023, Harvard University announced it would use AI teaching assistants in classrooms.

Porfirio’s bill passed the Senate Executive Committee on Wednesday.

There are several bills under consideration in the Illinois legislature to develop standards for the use of AI in classrooms.