California’s Democratic-controlled Legislature recently passed a series of bills as their session concluded, targeting AI usage and the social media industry, particularly regarding minors. Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom has until the month’s end to decide on these bills, potentially indicating his stance on significant issues as he considers a 2028 presidential candidacy.
The Legislature passed over 26 measures related to AI and social media. These seek to limit features deemed addictive by experts and restrict AI in daily life.
Key Measures Passed
One significant bill prohibits social media companies from offering “addictive features,” such as autoplaying videos, to users under 16. This bill also tightens existing restrictions on chatbots for minors by instituting age verification and advertising rules. Platforms and AI chatbots face financial liability if they fail to protect young users.
Experts suggest these measures may create the strongest nationwide framework for protecting minors online.
State Senator Steve Padilla stated, “While Washington caters to tech oligarchs, California is stepping up to protect our children.” He emphasized the potential national influence of these AI regulations.
Restrictions on AI in Education and Employment
Regarding AI, one bill mandates that instructors in the California State University system must be human, although they can use AI as a teaching tool. Another bill prohibits employers from using AI to collect “neural data” for assessing workers’ emotions. Additionally, retailers are restricted from using certain “surveillance pricing” methods.
AI Regulation in Healthcare
Several bills focus on AI in healthcare. Therapy and psychotherapy must be provided by licensed professionals, not chatbots. Another bill clarifies that healthcare providers using AI must comply with existing medical confidentiality laws.
Governor Newsom’s Position
Governor Newsom, historically an ally of the tech industry, has begun adopting a more populist stance on AI. Though he has not publicly detailed his approach to the new bills, industry leaders like OpenAI CEO Sam Altman have expressed concerns.
Newsom’s approach has shifted as he explores a presidential run, illustrated by initiatives to tighten AI controls and recent legislation requiring public school services to employ “natural persons.” Moreover, any vehicles with location tracking must disclose the feature.
Other Legislative Measures
Besides AI and social media, the legislature addressed law enforcement and policies linked to the Trump administration. One bill aims to restrict the use of electric shock gloves by law enforcement, requiring a study on such gloves by 2029 in response to ICE’s procurement plans. Another bill seeks to ease parole for elderly inmates and limits mask use by law enforcement agents from specified agencies.
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