Blogs of the LA Area Chamber
Vote Yes on Measure M - L.A. County's Path to Improved Mobility
Gary Toebben on September 27, 2016 at 9:00:00 am
Posted in The Business Perspective
Very rarely are we, as citizens, given the opportunity to make a decision that will dramatically transform our economy and our quality of life for generations to come. That is the opportunity that Los Angeles County residents have on Nov. 8 when we vote on whether to continue our investment in transportation improvements for our entire county through Measure M.
Can Health Care Adapt to a New Economy?
Samantha Beasley, Director, Public Policy, L.A. Area Chamber on September 23, 2016 at 11:00:00 am
Posted in Health Care Waiting Room
Today, consumers expect what they want, when they want it. But where does this emerging on-demand economy leave health care?
Consider the state of health care. The average wait time to see a primary care doctor is 18 days. The average emergency room wait time in Los Angeles is 3.5 hours. And yet 71 percent of emergency room visits are unnecessary.
Yes on Measure HHH- Help House the Homeless
Gary Toebben on September 20, 2016 at 9:00:00 am
Posted in The Business Perspective
Six years ago, the Chamber and the United Way released Home For Good, an action plan to end chronic and veteran homelessness in L.A. Since then, cooperation between the business community, philanthropic foundations, apartment owners, and local and federal officials has helped house 14,543 chronically homeless people and 16,939 homeless veterans. But, regrettably, the number of new homeless is growing faster than our solutions.
The Buck Stops With Governor Brown
Gary Toebben on September 13, 2016 at 9:00:00 am
Posted in The Business Perspective
Last week, I touched on a number of wins in the Legislature and several remaining priorities for the Chamber. Among the 789 bills sitting on Gov. Brown's desk to sign or veto, there are many items that would impact the business community. We are continuing to weigh in on these bills before the Sept. 30 deadline, and we urge you to join us in communicating with Governor Brown.
State Legislature Aids Business at End of 2015-2016 Session
Gary Toebben on September 6, 2016 at 9:00:00 am
Posted in The Business Perspective
Late last Wednesday night, the California State Legislature wrapped up the 2015-2016 session. The end of the session contained a number of bright spots for the Los Angeles business community.
Two bills were defeated that would have allowed Sacramento to usurp power from local boards. SB 522, then SB 1379 (both Mendoza) attempted to change the composition of the Los Angeles Metro Board of Directors and SB 1387 (de Leon), sought to add seats appointed by Sacramento leadership to the Southern California Air Quality Management District. The Chamber strongly believes regional and local agencies are best-equipped to deliver projects and programs that provide regional benefits and we are pleased to see these two bills defeated.