Independent Verification Organization (IVO)
Plain-language explanation
Under California SB 813, an Independent Verification Organization, or IVO, is an AI auditor designated by the Government Operations Agency as having demonstrated expertise in assessing risks associated with artificial intelligence and identifying the metrics and methodologies used to conduct those assessments.
Why It Matters
California is creating an IVO designation to identify AI auditors that meet state-developed expectations for expertise, risk assessment, conflicts of interest, and independence.
In Practice
An IVO is not simply another name for every AI auditor. SB 813 creates a state designation for qualifying AI auditors. The Government Operations Agency must develop the application requirements, designation criteria, and suspension or termination procedures by January 1, 2028.
The designation framework must consider technical expertise, the ability to assess AI risks, conflicts of interest, and independence from the organization being assessed. SB 813 does not itself require every AI developer, deployer, or operator to hire an IVO or undergo a covered AI audit.