Disclaimer: This page provides general informational summaries only and does not constitute legal advice. AI-generated content may contain errors. Always consult a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Read full disclaimer →
AI Summary
CA AB 502: Modifies rules on deceptive election ads, adding AI disclosure exemptions and clarifying legal actions.
Business Impact
If you use AI in election ads, ensure disclosures meet new standards or face legal challenges.
What do these statuses mean? ▼
Introduced
— Filed in the legislature; not yet heard in committee
In Committee
— Assigned to and being reviewed by a legislative committee
Passed
— Approved by one or both chambers; awaiting further action
Signed / Enacted
— Signed into law by the governor; may or may not be in effect yet
Dead / Vetoed
— Vetoed, failed to pass, or session expired without action
Unknown
— Status data not yet available or awaiting classification
Affected Industries
Topics How we classify →
What This Means
California's AB 502 addresses deceptive media in election ads, requiring AI-generated content disclosures. It specifies the prohibition period and who can seek legal action.
Key Provisions
- Prohibition applies within 120 days of an election and up to 60 days after in specified cases.
- Disclosure requirements for AI-altered content, including color and font size.
- Exemption for content recognized as satire or parody.
- Individuals depicted in deceptive content can seek legal action.
Latest Legislative Action
Ordered to inactive file at the request of Senator Blakespear.
Bill Sponsors (showing 5 of 20)
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Bates | Coauthor |
| Berman | Author |
| Bonilla | Author |
| Brough | Author |
| Canciamilla | Author |
Roll Call Votes (showing 3 of 5)
Do pass ·
Jul 15, 2025
11 Yea
2 Nay
Passed ✓
Do pass, but first be re-referred to the Committee on [Rules] ·
Jul 1, 2025
4 Yea
0 Nay
1 Other
Passed ✓
AB 502 Pellerin Consent Calendar Second Day ·
Apr 24, 2025
75 Yea
0 Nay
4 Other
Passed ✓
Compliance Checklist
Include a disclosure for AI-altered election communications
Who: Content creators and advertisers
Deadline: 120 days before an election
Penalty: Legal action for non-compliance
Who: Content creators and advertisers
Deadline: 120 days before an election
Penalty: Legal action for non-compliance
Ensure disclosure text meets size and color requirements
Who: Content creators and advertisers
Deadline: 120 days before an election
Penalty: Legal action for non-compliance
Who: Content creators and advertisers
Deadline: 120 days before an election
Penalty: Legal action for non-compliance
Full Legal Analysis
AB 502 amends existing California law on election communications by setting additional requirements for disclosures in media altered by artificial intelligence. The bill mandates that such disclosures must meet specific color and font size criteria. It extends the prohibition on distributing materially deceptive content to within 120 days before an election and, in some cases, up to 60 days after. This applies to candidates for any federal, state, or local office and elected officials. The bill also clarifies that individuals depicted in deceptive content, rather than any recipient, can seek an injunction or damages. Additionally, it exempts content that a reasonable person would recognize as satire or parody.
Official Source
Official Bill Text
View AB 502 on official legislature website →
Related Topics
Affected Industries
More California AI Legislation
SB59
Change of name or gender and sex identifier.
Low
SB348
State Air Resources Board: Low Carbon Fuel Standard.
Medium
AB976
Personal Income Tax Law: Corporation Tax Law: California Retail Secur…
Low
AB 1979
Health care services: artificial intelligence.
High
AB 2545
Report: labor force impact: artificial intelligence.
Medium
AB2545
Report: labor force impact: artificial intelligence.
Medium
View All CA Laws →
More California AI Laws
Browse all published AI bills and regulations for California.