New 2025 California laws: Artificial intelligence protection, octopuses and cannabis cafes and more [Video]

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Artificial intelligence is having a greater impact on our lives and numerous new laws in California aim to make sure AI does not become a detriment.

They are just some of the hundreds of new laws taking effect Jan. 1, 2025.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

(SB 926) DeepfakesMakes it a crime to create and distribute sexually explicit images of a real person that are artificially generated but made to appear authentic with the purpose of causing that person emotional distress.

(SB 981) Sexually Explicit ImagesRequires that social media platforms establish a mechanism for users who are California residents to report sexually explicit images that were created or altered digitally but made to appear authentic. Social media companies must take down the content while they investigate the complaint.

(AB 1836 & 2602) Digital LikenessProtects deceased actors and performers from having their image, likeness or voice reproduced without authorization by artificial intelligence. The law requires consent …