California Digital Replicas of Deceased Performers Act (AB 1836)

CAFor all AI companiesMedium severityIn effect

In effect since January 1, 2025

Overview

Restricts commercial uses of realistic AI-generated replicas of deceased performers' voices or likenesses in audiovisual works and sound recordings without consent from the personality's estate or other rightsholder.

This is an AI-specific state law.

Who this applies to

This regulation applies to both companies that build AI products and companies that use AI tools from other vendors.

AI categories covered

  • Consumer-facing AI
  • General purpose AI

Specific AI use cases:

  • Content generation

What this requires you to do

  • Consent required

    Obtain consent. Get explicit permission from individuals before collecting or using their data with AI.

  • Record-keeping required

    Maintain records. Keep documentation of your AI systems, decisions made, and compliance activities.

Enforcement and penalties

Estates and successors may sue for statutory minimum damages, actual damages, injunctive relief, and in some cases profits. Check Civil Code provisions as chaptered.

Source

Read the full text

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240AB1836

Always verify current language and amendments at the official source.

Other California regulations

Explore more rules in the same jurisdiction that may apply to your AI systems.

Want to know what else applies to your company?

Run a free XIRA scan to see all regulations that match your states and AI tools.