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12 due in 60 days · 190 regulations

California AI autonomous-harm defense ban

In force California · In force Jan 1, 2026 · no upcoming deadlines

Official text
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Deadlines

Takes effectJan 1 · 10 months ago · Source
Takes effectDefault effective date for 2025 regular-session statutes.
MilestoneOct 13, 2025 · 12 months ago · Source
Signed by GovernorChaptered as Chapter 672, Statutes of 2025.

Summaries for reference, not legal advice. Check the official text.

What it does

A defendant that developed, modified or used AI cannot argue in a civil case that the AI acted autonomously and so caused the harm on its own. Other defenses such as causation and comparative fault remain.

Who it applies to
Any developer, modifier or user of AI who is a defendant in a California civil action.
Penalties
No penalty; shapes civil liability.
Enforced by
Courts (private litigation)
Official name
Artificial Intelligence: Defenses (AB 316)
Citation
Stats. 2025, ch. 672; Cal. Civ. Code section 1714.46
Topics
AI
Verified 2026-09-25
Research notes

Effective date is California's default January 1 rule for non-urgency statutes; the bill has no special date.

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Questions about California AI autonomous-harm defense ban
What are the California AI autonomous-harm defense ban compliance deadlines?
Oct 13, 2025: Signed by Governor. Jan 1, 2026: Takes effect.
When does California AI autonomous-harm defense ban take effect?
California AI autonomous-harm defense ban took effect on Jan 1, 2026.
Who does California AI autonomous-harm defense ban apply to?
Any developer, modifier or user of AI who is a defendant in a California civil action.
What are the penalties under California AI autonomous-harm defense ban?
No penalty; shapes civil liability.