California SB 813 (Independent verification organizations for AI models)

Summary

Governor Newsom signed SB 813, authored by Senator Jerry McNerney, which establishes a first-in-the-nation framework for independent verification organizations that can assess AI systems and models for compliance with state law. It was signed alongside AB 1405, which creates a state registry for AI auditors. Together the bills establish a framework for independent third-party evaluation and audits of AI.

Who it applies to

Applies to independent verification organizations that assess AI systems and models for compliance with California state law, and by extension to the AI systems and models they assess. The source does not detail further obligations or covered entities.

Key points

• Establishes a framework for independent verification organizations to assess AI systems and models for compliance with state law.
• Codifies a primary recommendation of the governor’s blue-ribbon panel on AI for independent, third-party evaluations.
• Signed together with AB 1405, which creates a state registry for AI auditors and sets standards for independence, transparency and integrity.

Key dates

Signed / adopted

Sep 9, 2026