Key facts
- California enacted law AB 1130, requiring influencers to disclose paid political ads.
- Fines of up to $5,000 can be imposed per violation for non-disclosure.
- The law allows for misdemeanor charges against non-compliant influencers.
- Assemblymember Marc Berman sponsored the bill to address enforcement ambiguities.
- Tom Steyer's past campaign is noted for using influencers who initially failed to disclose payments.
California has enacted new legislation, AB 1130, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, that strengthens disclosure requirements for online influencers paid to promote political content. Previously, while disclosure was required for state or local political races, there were no penalties for non-compliance. The new law allows regulators to levy fines of up to $5,000 for each violation and can refer cases to law enforcement for potential misdemeanor charges. Democratic Assemblyman Marc Berman introduced the bill to address ambiguities in the existing law and its enforcement. The legislation comes as part of a broader package aimed at protecting against election interference. Billionaire Tom Steyer's past campaign reportedly utilized influencers who did not initially disclose their paid posts.