California lawmakers propose fines for influencers who hide paid political ads

A new proposal in Sacramento would let California’s Fair Political Practices Commission levy fines of up to $5,000 on influencers and political committees that do not clearly state they were paid for political content. The legislation seeks to bypass lengthy court orders required under the 2023 disclosure law, which already obliges paid political ads to be labeled. The move mirrors a 2024 Texas rule and reflects growing concerns after high-profile cases where creators promoted candidates without proper disclosure.

Democratic Assemblymember Marc Berman, who authored the bill, argues that transparency is essential for an informed electorate. Critics warn the penalties could burden small creators who lack resources for legal defense. The proposal is part of a broader national conversation about extending political-ad rules to digital influencers ahead of upcoming midterms and the 2028 presidential race.