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California AI laws in 2026: SB 53, companion chatbots, SB 1050 and AI audits

SB 53 has applied since January 2026. September 2026 added companion-chatbot safeguards, ad disclosure for synthetic performers, an AI auditor registry and an executive order on frontier oversight.

  1. SB 53: frontier AI transparency

    The Transparency in Frontier Artificial Intelligence Act has applied since 1 January 2026. Large frontier developers must publish a frontier AI framework, publish a transparency report before deploying a new frontier model, send periodic summaries of catastrophic-risk assessments to the state, report critical safety incidents to the Office of Emergency Services, and protect employees who report catastrophic-risk concerns.

  2. Companion chatbots and children

    On 10 September 2026 the Governor signed a package of child-safety bills that require risk assessments before new companion-chatbot rollouts, add penalties for harm to children and restrict toys that include a companion chatbot. Most provisions take effect on 1 January 2027 and the companion-chatbot safeguards on 1 July 2027. This is recorded from secondary reporting and pending review; check each enrolled bill.

  3. SB 1050: synthetic performers in advertising

    From 1 January 2027, an advertisement that prominently includes a synthetic performer (a human-like digital voice, figure or representation made at least partly with generative AI and not depicting an identifiable person) needs a clear and conspicuous disclosure. Pending review against the chaptered text.

  4. SB 813 and AB 1405: AI auditors

    SB 813 has the Government Operations Agency set criteria by 1 January 2028 for designating qualified AI auditors; AB 1405 creates an AI Auditor Registry by 1 January 2029, after which covered AI audits may be offered only by registered auditors. Pending review.

  5. The September 2026 executive order

    An executive order of 18 September 2026 asks a working group to recommend measures including whether frontier developers should maintain a shutdown capability. It creates no obligations itself. Pending review.

  6. Timeline

    January 2026: SB 53. January 2027: most of the child-safety package and SB 1050. July 2027: companion-chatbot safeguards. January 2028: auditor criteria. January 2029: auditor registry.

Obligations referenced in this guide

Frequently asked questions

What does California SB 53 require?

Large frontier AI developers must publish a frontier AI framework and transparency reports, send catastrophic-risk assessment summaries to the state, report critical safety incidents to the Office of Emergency Services, and protect whistleblowers. It has applied since 1 January 2026.

When do California's companion-chatbot rules apply?

According to the record (pending review), most provisions of the September 2026 child-safety package take effect on 1 January 2027 and the companion-chatbot safeguards on 1 July 2027.

Do AI-generated performers in ads need a disclosure in California?

Yes, from 1 January 2027 under SB 1050 as recorded: an ad that prominently includes a synthetic performer needs a clear and conspicuous disclosure.

Who can perform AI audits in California?

Under AB 1405 as recorded, once the AI Auditor Registry opens (by 1 January 2029), covered AI audits may be offered only by registered auditors meeting independence and integrity standards.

Disclaimer: informational only, not legal advice. Verify every claim against the linked official sources and consult a qualified lawyer before acting.