California 2025-2026 Regular Session

California Senate Bill SB53

Introduced
1/7/25  
Refer
1/29/25  
Refer
2/27/25  
Refer
3/12/25  
Report Pass
3/26/25  
Report Pass
3/26/25  
Refer
3/27/25  
Report Pass
4/9/25  
Refer
3/27/25  
Refer
4/9/25  
Report Pass
4/9/25  
Report Pass
5/23/25  
Refer
4/9/25  
Engrossed
5/28/25  
Report Pass
5/23/25  
Refer
6/5/25  
Engrossed
5/28/25  
Report Pass
5/23/25  
Refer
6/12/25  
Refer
6/5/25  
Refer
6/12/25  
Report Pass
7/2/25  
Refer
7/2/25  
Refer
7/8/25  
Report Pass
7/16/25  
Refer
7/17/25  
Report Pass
8/29/25  
Refer
9/8/25  
Report Pass
9/11/25  

Caption

Artificial intelligence models: large developers.

Impact

The TFAIA imposes significant changes on how artificial intelligence is monitored in the state. Developers must publicly publish a framework outlining their approaches to safety standards, including any assessments regarding catastrophic risks linked with their AI models. Furthermore, large developers will be mandated to report any critical safety incidents or risks to the Office of Emergency Services, establishing an active oversight mechanism. This shift places greater regulatory expectations on the artificial intelligence industry in California and addresses public concerns about the safety of AI technologies.

Summary

Senate Bill 53, known as the Transparency in Frontier Artificial Intelligence Act (TFAIA), is aimed at regulating large developers of artificial intelligence systems in California. The bill requires developers to disclose crucial information regarding the safety and training data of generative AI systems before they become publicly available. This legislation is designed to enhance transparency and accountability within the rapidly-evolving AI landscape while ensuring public safety is prioritized amid advancements in technology.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB 53 has been largely positive among proponents who view it as a necessary step towards greater safety and transparency in AI technology. However, there are concerns regarding the burden it may place on developers, particularly smaller firms that may struggle with the extensive reporting requirements. Critics argue that while the intention is to enhance safety, the additional regulatory framework could inadvertently stifle innovation and complicate compliance for smaller developers in the field.

Contention

Notably, the legislation has led to discussions around the balance between ensuring public safety and maintaining a vibrant innovation ecosystem in California. Opponents of the bill express apprehension about potential overreach, fearing that mandatory disclosures and risk assessments might hinder the competitive edge of local AI start-ups. Furthermore, the bill preempts local regulations concerning the management of catastrophic risks by developers, raising questions about local control versus state-wide mandates. This dichotomy underscores an ongoing debate about the appropriate level of regulation in tech industries.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA SB1047

Safe and Secure Innovation for Frontier Artificial Intelligence Models Act.

CA AB2885

Artificial intelligence.

CA SB896

Generative Artificial Intelligence Accountability Act.

CA AJR6

Artificial intelligence.

CA SB1288

Public schools: artificial intelligence working group.

CA AB3050

Artificial intelligence.

CA AB2652

State Department of Education: artificial intelligence working group.

CA SB1235

Public postsecondary education: Artificial Intelligence and Deepfake Working Group.

CA SB893

California Artificial Intelligence Research Hub.

CA AB2013

Generative artificial intelligence: training data transparency.

Similar Bills

CA SB1047

Safe and Secure Innovation for Frontier Artificial Intelligence Models Act.

CA SB294

Health care coverage: independent medical review.

NY S06953

Relates to the training and use of artificial intelligence frontier models; defines terms; establishes remedies for violations.

NY A06453

Relates to the training and use of artificial intelligence frontier models; defines terms; establishes remedies for violations.

US SB5616

A bill to establish the Artificial Intelligence Safety Review Office in the Department of Commerce, and for other purposes.

CA AB1111

Pupil transportation: schoolbuses: zero-emission vehicles: scrapping.

CA AB579

Schoolbuses: zero-emission vehicles.