CAL.Regulation
California bans employer AI tools that read workers' emotions or collect neural data
Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 1883 on September 30, 2026. From January 1, 2027, employers, including public employers, charter cities and the University of California, may not use AI-powered workplace surveillance tools to recognize or predict employees' emotional states or to collect neural data. Safety uses are allowed, as are uses needed for specified federal aerospace and defense work. Violations carry civil penalties of up to $500 each.
Enrolled text (California Legislative Information) → · Office of Governor Gavin Newsom
Key points
- AB 1883 adds a Part 5.8 to the Labor Code, commencing with section 1580, effective January 1, 2027.California Legislative Information
- Section 1581 bars employers from using AI workplace surveillance tools to recognize or infer employees' emotional states or to collect neural data.California Legislative Information
- The employer definition includes governmental entities such as charter cities and the University of California.California Legislative Information
- Safety uses are permitted, and uses reasonably necessary for specified federal aircraft, national security, military, space or defense work are exempt.California Legislative Information
- The Labor Commissioner or a public prosecutor may enforce the part; violators face civil penalties of up to $500 per violation.California Legislative Information
- Newsom signed AB 1883 on September 30, 2026, as part of a package of AI and worker-protection bills.Office of Governor Gavin Newsom
Sources2 articles across 2 outlets
California Legislative Information
Office of Governor Gavin Newsom
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