California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed SB 53, a landmark bill requiring transparency and safety protocols from large AI companies.

On September 29, 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed SB 53, a pioneering bill that imposes new transparency requirements on large AI companies, including OpenAI and Meta. The legislation mandates these firms to disclose their safety protocols and provides whistleblower protections for employees. Additionally, it establishes a reporting mechanism for critical safety incidents to California’s Office of Emergency Services. The bill has sparked mixed reactions within the AI industry, with some companies arguing that state regulations could hinder innovation. Despite opposition from firms like OpenAI and Meta, which lobbied against the bill, others see it as a necessary step toward responsible AI development. Newsom emphasized the importance of balancing community protection with the growth of the AI sector. Other states, such as New York, are considering similar legislation.