CA AI Transparency Act — Requirements, Penalties & Compliance Guide
SB 942 · CA · Effective Jan 1, 2026
In effectSummary
Mandates watermarking of AI-generated content and detection tool availability.
Who it applies to
Scope: all ai. This regulation applies to deployers and/or developers of AI systems in the all ai category operating in or affecting CA.
Penalties
Up to $5K per violation. Enforced by Attorney General.
Key requirements
This regulation has 4 distinct requirements. Deep-dive guides with step-by-step implementation, evidence needed, and passing criteria:
Effective date
Jan 1, 2026. Currently in effect.
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