California AI Transparency Act.

Assembly Member Wicks' California AI Transparency Act establishes new requirements for AI-generated content labeling and detection across digital platforms and devices. The legislation requires large online platforms with over 2 million monthly users to implement machine-readable labels indicating when content contains AI-generated elements, including the specific AI system used and any available digital signatures.

The bill mandates that manufacturers of cameras, phones, and other capture devices provide users the option to embed provenance data in recorded content, including device details and creation timestamps. These disclosures must be available in both default and third-party recording applications, with clear user controls and indicators when provenance tracking is active. Platforms are prohibited from removing system provenance data or retaining personal identifying information from shared content.

For generative AI hosting platforms, the legislation prohibits offering systems that do not include permanent disclosures in AI-created or modified content. It also bans the distribution of tools designed primarily to remove these required disclosures. Violations incur civil penalties of $5,000 per day, enforceable by the Attorney General, city attorneys, or county counsel, with prevailing plaintiffs eligible for attorney fees and costs.