California Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled a sweeping set of new initiatives aimed at accelerating the responsible use of artificial intelligence across state government, while strengthening safeguards for workers, children, and consumers as AI adoption expands.
The announcement includes the creation of the California Innovation Council, a new advisory body bringing together leading technology policy experts, academic institutions, civil society organizations, and industry groups to guide the state’s approach to emerging technologies. The council will focus on issues ranging from child online safety and tech-enabled fraud to modernizing government services and supporting workforce development in an AI-driven economy.
Newsom said California intends to shape the future of artificial intelligence rather than react to it, emphasizing a balance between innovation and public protection. First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom highlighted the council’s role in ensuring technology development prioritizes community well-being, particularly for women and children.
As part of the effort to modernize state operations, the governor also announced the launch of an Emerging Technology Accelerator, formalizing partnerships with organizations including Stanford’s Institute for Human-Centered AI, UC Berkeley, the Mozilla Foundation, U.S. Digital Response, and Nava Labs. These groups will work with state agencies to design, deploy, and evaluate digital tools that improve government service delivery.
A central feature of the announcement is the rollout of “Poppy,” a new generative AI digital assistant designed specifically for state employees. Developed by the California Department of Technology in collaboration with more than 20 state departments, Poppy operates on the state’s secure network and is grounded in public state data. Officials say the system does not use Californians’ personally identifiable information and is intended to streamline routine tasks, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.
The state is also expanding AI education and workforce development efforts. More than 20 AI-related training programs are now available to state employees, including a multi-course AI certificate and boot camps focused on responsible adoption. New fellowship programs launched with UC-affiliated research centers and Stanford aim to build long-term public sector expertise in AI governance and ethics.
California’s initiatives build on earlier executive actions directing agencies to adopt AI responsibly and align with existing state laws addressing AI safety, deepfakes, digital likeness protections, and scam prevention. Officials said the new programs reflect California’s position as a global technology leader and its ambition to demonstrate how governments can deploy artificial intelligence in ways that are effective, secure, and aligned with public values.
Need Help?
If you’re concerned or have questions about how to navigate the global AI regulatory landscape, don’t hesitate to reach out to BABL AI. Their Audit Experts can offer valuable insight and ensure you’re informed and compliant.
