SB 524: Using AI to Draft Police Reports? New California Rules Apply

Effective January 1, 2026, Senate Bill 524 requires covered agencies to maintain a policy for official police reports prepared fully or partly through certain artificial intelligence systems. The law applies when AI automatically drafts a report narrative from body worn or vehicle camera recordings or an officer’s dictated report. (Pen. Code, § 13663 (a), (e).)

SB 524 covers state and local agencies, special districts, and other political subdivisions that employ a peace officer described in Penal Code section 830. It does not apply to every public agency or every use of AI.

Reports Must Disclose AI Use and Include Officer Verification

An official report prepared fully or partly with a covered AI tool must:

• Identify every AI program used, either on each page or clearly within the report

• Prominently state: “This report was written either fully or in part using artificial intelligence.”

• Include the physical or electronic signature of the officer or agency member confirming that the report was reviewed and its facts are true and correct.

The AI program must be identified on each page or clearly within the report. (Pen. Code, § 13663(a).)

Agencies Must Preserve Records and Protect Their Data

The agency must retain the initial draft produced solely by AI for as long as it retains the official report. It must also maintain an audit trail identifying the person who used the AI and any audio or video used to create the report. An AI generated draft is not considered an officer’s statement unless it is the signed official report. (Pen. Code, § 13663 (b), (c).) 

The law also limits how contracted AI vendors may share, sell, access, or use agency information. Agencies should review vendor agreements and data practices for compliance. (Pen. Code, § 13663 (d).)

Covered Agencies Should Act Now

Agencies using covered AI tools should update their policies and report procedures, establish processes to retain initial AI drafts and audit trails, and review applicable vendor agreements.

Our team can assist public agencies with determining whether SB 524 applies and reviewing their policies, procedures, retention practices, and vendor agreements.