SB 53 Introduces Groundbreaking AI Safety Requirements

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed SB 53, marking the nation’s first legislation that directly addresses the safety of advanced artificial intelligence systems. The bill targets large AI laboratories—specifically naming OpenAI, Anthropic, Meta, and Google DeepMind—and requires them to be transparent about their internal safety protocols.

In addition to transparency, SB 53 creates a formal mechanism for reporting critical safety incidents to the California Office of Emergency Services. Companies must disclose incidents involving crimes carried out without human oversight, such as cyber‑attacks, as well as deceptive model behavior that falls outside the scope of the EU AI Act. The law also provides whistleblower protections for employees who raise safety concerns.

Industry Reaction and Political Context

The bill has generated mixed responses within the AI sector. Anthropic publicly endorsed SB 53, while Meta and OpenAI mounted opposition. OpenAI went further by publishing an open letter to Governor Newsom that discouraged his signing of the legislation.

Despite industry pushback, the governor praised the bill, emphasizing that California can protect its communities while fostering AI innovation. He highlighted the balance between regulation and growth, positioning the state as a national leader in AI safety.

Related Legislative Efforts

SB 53 follows earlier attempts by Senator Scott Wiener, who previously introduced SB 1047, a broader AI safety proposal that Newsom vetoed after substantial industry resistance. The current bill reflects a narrower approach, with the senator reaching out to major AI firms to clarify the revisions.

Another measure, SB 243, has moved through both chambers of the California legislature and would regulate AI companion chatbots, imposing safety standards and legal accountability for operators.

Beyond California, New York lawmakers have passed a similar AI safety bill that awaits the governor’s signature, indicating a growing trend of state‑level regulation aimed at curbing potential harms from unchecked AI advancement.

Implications for the Future

SB 53 establishes a template that other states may emulate as they grapple with the rapid development of powerful AI technologies. By requiring transparency, incident reporting, and protecting whistleblowers, California seeks to build public trust while allowing the AI industry to continue thriving under clearer safety expectations.

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