The Commission on the Status of Women and Girls is an independent, non-partisan agency working to advance the causes of women, girls, and gender equity. Toward that end, the Commission influences public policy by advising the Governor and the Legislature on issues impacting women and girls and educating and informing its constituencies-thereby providing opportunities that empower women and girls to make their maximum contribution to society.

The Commission consists of a 17-member body including the Chief of the Division of Industrial Welfare in the Department of Industrial Relations, three Senators, three Assembly members, and ten public members: seven appointed by the Governor, one by the Superintendent of Public Instruction, one by the Senate Committee on Rules, and one by the Speaker of the Assembly. Public members serve four-year terms and are reimbursed for necessary expenses.