Digital replicas count as a person's voice or likeness in publicity and impersonation laws
The law spells out that using an AI digital replica of someone's voice or likeness without consent falls under the state's right-of-publicity lawsuit rule, and counts as false impersonation in criminal cases. It also ends a legal presumption that protected employers using workers' photos in ads.
Who it affects
Advertisers, businesses using AI replicas, and people whose likeness is used
When
This law takes effect on January 1, 2027. California laws take effect on January 1 of the year after they are signed, unless the law says otherwise.
- : Signed into law
- : This law takes effect
Official text
California SB 1111: Digital replicas.
On California Legislative Information. The official text is what counts; read it before you act.
Not legal advice. Plain-English summaries to help you find what changes and when. Not legal advice: read the official text, and ask a lawyer about your situation.