CALIFORNIA AI LAW · RESEARCH CHECKED OCTOBER 20, 2026
New rules.
Clear distinctions.
California has expanded its AI laws. Some rules concern lawyers, others AI developers, advertising or covered data processing. Signing dates, effective dates and who is covered are not the same thing.
SIGNED SEPTEMBER 30, 2026 · EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2027SB 574
Human responsibility in legal work
Adds AI-specific duties for attorneys, including output checks and court disclosure, and restricts arbitrators’ use of AI in decision-making.
The distinction: Fast Divorce is an LDA service, not a law firm. Attorney-specific duties are not an LDA credential. Mediation is not arbitration; the law’s certified ADR-provider provisions need a separate applicability review.
Read the enacted lawSIGNED SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 · EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2027SB 1050
Synthetic performers in advertising
Requires a clear, conspicuous disclosure in covered advertisements that prominently feature a synthetic performer.
The distinction: A general AI policy page does not replace a disclosure required in the advertisement itself. The format and use of each asset matter.
Read the enacted lawSB 1000: IMMEDIATE · AB 2713 PLATFORM DUTIES: JANUARY 1, 2027AI transparency
Where digital content comes from
SB 1000 updates California’s AI Transparency Act. AB 2713 revises provenance duties for large online platforms. Both were signed September 30, 2026.
The distinction: Duties depend on whether an entity is a covered provider, platform or other regulated actor. Merely using an AI tool does not establish that role.
REGULATIONS EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2026 · PHASED DEADLINESPrivacy & automated decisions
Coverage comes first
California privacy regulations address risk assessments, cybersecurity audits and automated decision-making for covered businesses and uses. Some compliance deadlines begin in 2027 and 2028.
The distinction: AI use alone does not prove these obligations apply. Business thresholds, processing activities and the kind of decision must be assessed.
Read the CPPA’s adopted regulations