California Opens AI Policy Decisions to Public Input
California Gov. Gavin Newsom launched Engaged California on Thursday, a platform that invites residents to shape how the state regulates artificial intelligence. The system will gather feedback on AI's effects on workers, government services, and the economy.
The platform lets Californians weigh in on specific issues: workplace automation, the use of generative AI in government, and other AI-related concerns. State officials will use this feedback to develop AI policy frameworks.
"AI is moving fast, bringing enormous opportunity, but also real risks," Newsom said in a statement. "Engaged California is making sure people aren't just spectators, but participants in decision-making and state policy."
How the Platform Works
Users create a profile and answer questions about their experiences with AI at work. They can also share thoughts on AI's economic impact and suggest ideas for government action.
A second phase begins this summer. State officials will select a group of Californians to participate in live forums that dig deeper into potential policy recommendations.
What Triggered This Move
The rollout follows Newsom's March executive order that tightened how California buys AI tools. Companies seeking state contracts must now demonstrate safeguards against bias, civil rights violations, and harmful content generation.
Government employees evaluating or implementing AI systems should understand these emerging state-level requirements. Learn more about AI for Government and how policy frameworks are developing, or explore the AI Learning Path for Policy Makers to understand how these decisions get made.
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