California

California is the most populous US state and would rank as the world's fifth-largest economy if independent. The state has pioneered policies later adopted nationally, from environmental regulations to technology governance. California's regulatory framework significantly shapes technology company practices globally.

As home to Silicon Valley, California's policies on technology, privacy (CCPA), and employment shape the environment in which major tech companies evolve. The state demonstrates how subnational entities can exercise significant influence on global industries.