California launches teen council for emerging tech, digital wellness
California Gov. Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom on Tuesday announced the launch of a statewide Teen Tech Council, to give young people a bigger role in shaping conversations around technology, social media and digital wellness across the Golden State.
The state launched the council in partnership with #HalfTheStory, a nonprofit focused on helping young people build healthier relationships with technology. The group will convene teens to help develop and implement digital wellness initiatives in their schools and communities, rather than relying solely on policymakers, parents and technology companies.
The council’s launch comes as debates over youth technology use increasingly move beyond social media to include AI tools, online safety and the role of technology in schools.
“I established the California Innovation Council to bring together the expertise and perspectives of stakeholders to help us shape the future of technology, not just react to it,” Newsom said in a press release. “California is leading the nation on AI and technology policy. And with the voice of our next generation, we’ll continue building a future that is safer, stronger, and more innovative for all.”
State officials have in recent years focused on the effects of smartphones, social media and AI on children and teens. California has enacted several laws addressing online safety and the use of technology by minors, including restrictions on certain social media features for users under 18.
California follows New York as the second state to create a Teen Tech Council. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul last year announced a similar partnership that included #HalfTheStory and Hillary Clinton.
