Assembly launches select committee hearing on technology's effect on young men

Assemblymember Avelino Valencia, chair of the Assembly Select Committee on Developing Pathways to Purpose for Young Men, opened the panel hearing by saying young men are disproportionately disconnected from school and work and that the committee will seek public and expert guidance on solutions. "Young men now make up the majority of California's disconnected from work and school," Valencia said in his opening remarks.

The inaugural hearing brought two panels of researchers, clinicians and youth advocates who detailed how platform design, gambling-like game features and AI companions can displace the offline relationships and opportunities that build purpose. Panelists urged a mix of policy responses — feature-based safety rules for AI, better content and platform transparency, age-assurance tools, and investments in offline mentorship, sports and community programs — rather than only parental restrictions.

The session also highlighted pending California legislation addressing platform design and child safety, and closed with members emphasizing the need for evidence-driven pilot programs and education updates. The committee said it will continue the inquiry and explore both regulatory and programmatic avenues in future meetings.