California Lawmakers Advance AI Regulations to Address Discrimination, Job Protection, and Deepfakes

California lawmakers are pushing forward AI regulations to address job loss, misinformation, privacy invasions, and automation bias. With Europe already ahead in AI regulation, California’s efforts could pave the way for national standards.

One of California’s most ambitious AI measures seeks to establish an oversight framework to prevent bias and discrimination in AI models. Companies using AI would be required to inform affected individuals and make internal assessments for bias, with the state attorney general empowered to investigate and fine violators.

Inspired by the Hollywood actors’ strike, a new proposal also aims to protect workers from being replaced by AI-generated clones. The measure would allow performers to back out of contracts with vague AI usage terms and require legal representation for new contracts involving digital cloning, all of which could have a big impact on adult entertainment stars and future AI-driven platforms.

Legislators are considering regulations for “extremely large” AI systems, including requirements for built-in “kill switches” to prevent misuse, such as creating chemical weapons. A new state agency would oversee developers and establish best practices, with the attorney general authorized to pursue legal actions for violations.

And finally, a bipartisan coalition is pushing to criminalize the creation and distribution of AI-generated child sexual abuse images and election-related deepfakes. Proposed laws would ban deceptive deepfakes in political ads and robocalls, and require social media platforms to label AI-generated election content.