SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The California Health and Human Services Agency announced the launch of the Early Childhood Policy Council, which will work to prioritize the needs of young children and their families.

The Council will advise the Governor, Legislature and the Superintendent of Public Instruction on statewide early learning, care and overall development.

Chaired by California Surgeon General Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, the Early Childhood Policy Council will have its first meeting from noon to 3 p.m. March 16 at the Department of Social Services Auditorium, 744 P. St.