California · State AI law
California SB 942 (AI Transparency Act)
California AI Transparency Act
In force
In force since 2 Aug 2026
Status checked 27 Sep 2026
What it covers
Covered providers — GenAI systems with >1,000,000 monthly users publicly accessible in California. Requires free AI detection tool; manifest and latent content disclosures; 96-hour license revocation for licensee tampering.
Penalties and enforcement
- Maximum penalty
- $5,000 per violation; each day of continued violation is a separate violation; attorneys fees.
- Who enforces it
- California Attorney General; city attorneys; county counsel
Bill history
SB 942 (signed Sep 19, 2024 — Gov. Newsom); start date delayed by AB 853 (signed Oct 2025)
Primary source: leginfo.legislature.ca.gov — SB 942