OpenAI, the developer behind ChatGPT, has announced its support for a California bill, AB 3211, which would require tech companies to label AI-generated content, such as memes or deepfakes, especially in contexts where misinformation could be spread, including political campaigns. This bill has gained traction despite being overshadowed by another AI-related bill, SB 1047, which mandates safety testing for AI models and has faced pushback from the tech industry, including OpenAI.

California lawmakers have introduced a variety of AI-related bills this legislative season, but many have stalled. AB 3211, however, has progressed significantly, having already passed the state Assembly and the Senate appropriations committee. If approved by the full state Senate before the legislative session ends on August 31, it will move to Governor Gavin Newsom for final approval.

In a letter to Assembly member Buffy Wicks, who authored the bill, OpenAI emphasized the importance of transparency and content provenance, especially in an election year. The company’s Chief Strategy Officer, Jason Kwon, highlighted the role of new technologies in helping the public distinguish between human-generated and AI-generated content, a concern that is growing as more countries hold elections this year.