CA SB 1248: State agencies: automated decision systems.

In one paragraph

California's SB 1248 (2025-26 Regular Session) would restrict how state agencies use automated decision systems to confer services such as professional licenses and public benefits. An agency could not use a system's output as the sole basis for an adverse service determination affecting a person, except as specified, and would have to verify accuracy and promote nondiscrimination. Held under submission in Senate Appropriations on May 14, 2026; not passed before the session ended.

Plain-English summary, written with AI assistance. The official text controls.

What it means for business

None: the bill died and never became law. It would have applied to state agencies' use of automated decision systems, not to private businesses.

Key provisions

1. 1Would add Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 12898) to Part 2.5 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code
2. 2Would prohibit a state agency from using an automated decision system output as the sole basis for an adverse service determination affecting a natural person, except as specified
3. 3Would require the agency to verify the accuracy of the system's outputs and promote nondiscrimination in its use, as specified
4. 4Would require the agency director or designee to provide quality control review of outputs to assure acceptable accuracy
5. 5Would authorize GovOps to adopt and publish guidance, after notifying the Joint Legislative Budget Committee, and require it to give technical assistance to agencies on request
6. 6Held in Senate Appropriations on May 14, 2026; dead after the session ended

Latest legislative action

May 14, 2026. May 14 hearing: Held in committee and under submission.

Sponsors

Roll call votes