California has long been a global leader in shaping technology policy, and decisions made in Sacramento often have a profound impact on the entire digital ecosystem.  Last week, Internet Works brought the voices of Middle Tech companies to state lawmakers through our annual California Lobby Day. 

Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister) with representatives from Internet Works member companies.

Member companies traveled to the Golden State capital to meet with 18 offices and demonstrate that right-sized tech policy is essential to protecting users while fostering innovation.  During our meetings, we emphasized Internet Works’ commitment to being a trusted resource for lawmakers. 

Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) with representatives from Internet Works member companies.
Assemblymember Blanca Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) with representatives from Internet Works member companies.

Advocating for Policies That Support Safety and Privacy While Preserving Innovation 
Throughout our meetings in the State Capitol, we outlined legislation that would prioritize user privacy, children’s online safety, and risk-based AI regulations in a landscape that is rapidly changing.  Internet Works’ roadmap to right-sized regulations includes:

  • Adopting a Risk-Based Approach 
  • Preserving Competition Through Flexibility and Proportionality 
  • Promoting Tailored and Clear Compliance Obligations  
  • Maintaining a Balanced Approach to Enforcement and Reporting
Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens (D-Sunnyvale) with representatives from Internet Works member companies.
Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) with representatives from Internet Works member companies.

Continuing to Collaborate With Lawmakers 
Internet Works is proud of our approach to working with lawmakers and looks forward to a future of collaboration.  Celebrating this ongoing effort, we hosted our signature Middle Tech Mixer in Sacramento, bringing together industry leaders, tech policy stakeholders, and state officials. 

We were honored to present California Assemblymember Buffy Wicks with Internet Works’ Middle Tech Champion Award.

Executive Director Peter Chandler presents Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) with the Middle Tech Champion Award.

Assemblymember Wicks earned this honor for her steadfast leadership in passing the Digital Age Assurance Act (AB 1043) and listening to the unique perspectives of our member companies to craft a balanced bill.  Internet Works was proud to collaborate closely with Assemblymember Wicks to refine and secure key amendments to the legislation, which establishes critical child safety protections without causing unintended harm or restricting digital innovation for Middle Tech platforms. 

Her leadership is proof that when lawmakers and industry collaborate, we get smart, right-sized policies.  Thank you to all of the member companies who participated and helped make this such a successful trip.