Press Release
California’s Youth Empowerment Commission Launches to Tackle Key Issues Facing Young People Across the State

SACRAMENTO.—The newly formed Youth Empowerment Commission held its inaugural meeting in Oakland yesterday evening, marking the official launch of a bold initiative to engage youth in the development of policy and legislative solutions to some of the most pressing issues facing young people in California today, including homelessness, education, and mental health. 

The commission, formed pursuant to AB 46, is composed of 13 voting commissioners between the ages of 14 and 25, with 11 members appointed by the Governor, one at-large member appointed by the Senate Committee on Rules, and one at-large member appointed by the Speaker of the Assembly, along with several ex officio, nonvoting members from various geographic regions of the state. Members were sworn in on Sept. 18, 2024. 

The commission aims to provide ​​recommendations for innovative solutions that reflect the real-world experiences of youth and to champion policies that promote the well-being of all young people, especially those in disadvantaged communities. Commission members will be dedicated to amplifying youth voices in policymaking on issues affecting young people.    

A grid image of all the Youth Empowerment Youth Commissioners.

“This is an exciting step forward in empowering our youth to be active participants in shaping their future,” said Thomisha Wallace, executive director of the Youth Empowerment Commission. “By bringing youth to the table, we are ​​ensuring that the solutions we develop are grounded in their lived experiences. Whether it’s addressing homelessness, improving our education system, or tackling the mental health crisis, this commission will play a key role in crafting policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of our state’s youth.” 

Thomisha Wallace

Executive Director of the Youth Empowerment Commission

  1. ​Reducing ​Homelessness ​ ​
  2. ​Access to Quality ​Education​ & Opportunity ​​ ​ ​ ​ 
  3. ​Addressing ​Mental health​ Challenges​ ​ ​

The Youth Empowerment Commission is committed to collaboration with state lawmakers, educators, mental health professionals, and nonprofit organizations to bring about meaningful change. The commission’s recommendations will serve as the foundation for future policy proposals and legislative action. 

For more information on the Youth Empowerment Commission, including its leadership and members, visit www.youthempowerment.ca.gov.    

Press Contact

Agustín Arreola
External Affairs Manager
press@opr.ca.gov