CA SB942

Requires covered providers (companies with over 1 million monthly users operating GenAI systems) to provide a free, publicly accessible AI detection tool that identifies AI-generated or altered content and outputs system provenance data.

Mandates covered providers offer users the option to include a manifest (visible) disclosure labeling content as AI-generated, and requires automatic inclusion of a latent (hidden) disclosure containing information about the provider, system version, creation date, and unique identifier.

Prohibits covered providers from collecting personal information from AI detection tool users, except for contact information from users who opt in to feedback communications.

Requires covered providers to revoke licenses within 96 hours if third-party licensees modify the GenAI system to disable required disclosures, and prohibits licensees from continuing use after revocation.

Establishes civil penalties of $5,000 per violation (with each day constituting a separate violation) enforceable by the Attorney General, city attorneys, or county counsel, with an exemption for video game, television, streaming, and movie services; becomes operative January 1, 2026.