California Senate passes bill to fine influencers for undisclosed political posts

The California Senate has passed a bill aimed at increasing transparency regarding paid political content from social media influencers. The legislation, authored by Democratic Assemblymember Marc Berman, seeks to strengthen enforcement of existing laws that require content creators to include disclaimers when they are paid to support political candidates or ballot issues.

Under current regulations, the state’s campaign watchdog must seek a court order to compel an influencer to disclose paid partnerships, a process that can take several months. The new bill would grant the Fair Political Practices Commission the authority to bypass the court process and directly fine influencers and political committees for violations. Content creators found in violation could face fines of up to $5,000 per instance.

The bill now moves to the Assembly for a final vote. If passed, it will head to Governor Gavin Newsom, who has until the end of September to sign or veto the measure.