Minnesota Youth Council

About this resource

The Minnesota Youth Council (MYC) was created by state law in 2013 to make sure young people have a real voice in government. It's made up of 36 students from middle schools and high schools across the state.

These students work together to make sure leaders in Minnesota—like the Governor and state lawmakers—hear what youth care about and take their ideas seriously.

As part of the Council, members:

  • Choose bills that should get a public hearing

  • Create and suggest new laws that focus on youth

  • Share their opinions on bills being considered by lawmakers

  • Help put together a Youth Omnibus Bill, which is a package of laws focused on issues that matter to young people

Check out the Council on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MNYouth

Who can use this resource (eligibility)?

  • Live in Minnesota
  • Attend a middle school or high school in the state
  • Be between 13 and 19 years of age

To be appointed, you should:

  • Be an active member of your community and a committed advocate for young people
  • Lead with equity, collaboration, and quality
  • Have a basic understanding of Minnesota’s three branches of government and political systems
Resource Tags: Youth & Alumni Groups