California is an Innovator: CAYC is Innovating

In California, we innovate. It is well understood globally that we are an epicenter for introducing computing, biotechnology, and renewable energy advancements. We are also well known for trailblazing new social mores, influencing trends in entertainment and fashion, and driving environmental awareness. What may be less appreciated is that California has also pioneered novel policy advances like emissions standards and internet privacy that have then influenced national policy.

The formation of the CAYC follows that proud tradition of California innovating. While youth commissions exist across the country and while some states have state-level commissions, there has never been a group that united different local commissions around the state. Why is this both different and important? The reason is that the power of local commissions comes from inherently accumulating an intimate understanding of real issues that can only be acquired from those in the trenches. CAYC will be the first group to access these insights to drive policy recommendations.

Image credit: Flag - California State Capitol Museum