GovernanceCore
Enacted — not yet in forceUnited States — California

California AI Transparency Act

Requires large generative AI providers to offer free AI-detection tools and embed latent + manifest provenance disclosures in AI-generated content, tackling synthetic-media transparency at scale.

Status
Enacted — not yet in force
Jurisdiction
United States — California · State
Adopted
Sep 19, 2024
In force
Aug 2, 2026
Enforcement date
Aug 2, 2026
Regulator / body
California Attorney General
Sectors
Generative AI providers
Extraterritorial
No

Overview

Requires large generative AI providers to offer free AI-detection tools and embed latent + manifest provenance disclosures in AI-generated content, tackling synthetic-media transparency at scale.

Key dates

  • Sep 19, 2024
    Signed into law
  • Aug 2, 2026
    Compliance date (amended)

Risk areas addressed

TransparencySynthetic media & deepfakesContent & information integrity

Who it applies to

Providers of covered generative AI systems with large numbers of monthly users.

Penalties & enforcement

Civil penalties per violation, per day.

Enforced by: California Attorney General

Getting ready

Whatever your exposure to California SB 942, the practical work is the same: inventory the AI systems in scope, map them to concrete obligations, and keep the evidence to show it. A structured AI governance programme — risk assessments, documentation and continuous monitoring — turns a moving regulatory target into a repeatable process.

Official source

California Legislature — SB 942 ↗

Related regulations

← All regulations