California AI autonomous-harm defense ban
In force California · In force Jan 1, 2026 · no upcoming deadlines
Deadlines
| Date | What happens | When |
|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 20268 months ago | Takes effect | 9 months ago |
| Oct 13, 202511 months ago | Signed by Governor | 11 months ago |
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.
Related
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.