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Bill

AB 979

California Cybersecurity Integration Center: artificial intelligence.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jacqui Irwin and 1 co-sponsor

California establishes a cybersecurity integration center using AI to detect and prevent cyber threats across state agencies and critical infrastructure.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 285, Statutes of 2025.
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Bill Summary · AB 979

Legislative bill overview

AB 979 establishes the California Cybersecurity Integration Center (CalCIC) with a mandate to develop and implement artificial intelligence capabilities for detecting, preventing, and responding to cybersecurity threats across state government and critical infrastructure. The bill allocates resources for AI research, workforce development, and coordination between state agencies and private sector partners to strengthen California's cyber defense posture.

Why is this important

As cyber threats grow increasingly sophisticated and frequent, California—home to major tech companies and critical infrastructure—faces significant vulnerability. This bill creates a dedicated state resource to leverage AI technology for threat detection while establishing standardized cybersecurity practices. However, it represents a substantial government investment in AI systems that will handle sensitive security data and make automated decisions affecting critical infrastructure.

Potential points of contention

  • AI governance and oversight: The bill establishes significant AI capabilities within state government with limited transparency about decision-making processes, training data, and algorithmic accountability mechanisms
  • Privacy and surveillance concerns: Deploying AI across state networks and critical infrastructure to detect threats raises questions about data collection scope, citizen privacy, and potential for mission creep beyond cybersecurity
  • Implementation costs and effectiveness: The financial burden and practical challenges of integrating AI systems across diverse state agencies and infrastructure operators are unclear, with no guaranteed ROI or performance metrics specified

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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