The Coogan Law, California’s long-standing protection for child performers, now extends to minors working as content creators under AB 1880, signed September 26, 2024 and in effect since January 1, 2025. The expansion expressly includes vloggers, podcasters, social media influencers, and streamers who have direct contracts with third parties.
How the Coogan Law Applies to Minor Creators
At least 15 percent of the minor’s gross earnings under such contracts must be deposited in a Coogan trust account for the minor’s benefit. This matters to brands and agencies because a sponsorship deal signed directly with a minor creator in California is an artistic employment contract under the Coogan framework.
What Brands and Agencies Should Do
Marketing teams contracting with minor influencers should ensure the contract routes the required percentage into a blocked trust account. Non-compliant contracts create legal exposure and unenforceability risk, so trust verification belongs in every deal with a young creator in California before any campaign content is produced.
Source: California Legislative Information: AB 1880 (2024)
Report a violation: If you believe a business is violating this law, you can file a complaint with the California Attorney General Consumer Protection.
