Artificial intelligence: defenses.

Summary of AB 316: Artificial Intelligence Defenses

Bill Number: AB 316

Title: Artificial Intelligence: Defenses

Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 672, Statutes of 2025

Introduced: January 24, 2025

Classification: Bill

Subject: Artificial Intelligence, Defenses

Purpose and Intent

AB 316 aims to clarify the legal responsibilities of developers and users of artificial intelligence (AI) systems in California. The bill establishes that individuals or entities cannot use the argument that AI autonomously caused harm as a defense in legal actions. This legislation is designed to hold developers accountable for the actions of their AI systems, thereby enhancing consumer protection and ensuring that victims of AI-related harm have recourse.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces a new section to the California Civil Code, specifically Section 1714.46, which includes the following provisions:

1. Definition of Artificial Intelligence:

   • The bill defines "artificial intelligence" as an engineered or machine-based system that can infer from input to generate outputs affecting physical or virtual environments.

2. Prohibition of Autonomous Defense:

   • Defendants who develop, modify, or use AI cannot claim that the AI autonomously caused harm to a plaintiff. This means that if an AI system is alleged to have caused injury, the developer or user cannot escape liability by arguing that the AI acted independently.

3. Affirmative Defenses Allowed:

   • The bill does not prevent defendants from presenting other affirmative defenses. They may still introduce evidence related to causation, foreseeability, or the comparative fault of other parties involved.

Affected Parties

• Developers and Users of AI: This bill directly impacts individuals and organizations that create or utilize AI systems, making them more accountable for the outcomes of their technologies.
• Consumers and Plaintiffs: Victims of AI-related incidents will benefit from enhanced legal protections, as they can pursue claims without facing defenses based on AI autonomy.

Procedural Aspects

• Legislative Journey: AB 316 was introduced on January 24, 2025, and underwent several readings and amendments before being approved by the Governor on October 13, 2025. It was chaptered into law the same day.
• Voting: The bill passed with a majority vote throughout its legislative process, indicating broad support for the accountability measures it introduces.

Conclusion

AB 316 represents a significant step in regulating the use of artificial intelligence in California. By prohibiting the use of AI autonomy as a defense in legal cases, the bill aims to ensure that developers and users of AI systems are held accountable for their creations, thereby protecting consumers and fostering responsible AI development.