Chamber Calls for De-escalation
In response to recent federal immigration raids across Los Angeles, the L.A. Area Chamber issued public statements urging calm and calling for de-escalation. The Chamber emphasized the importance of safeguarding community stability and protecting the region’s economic resilience, especially at a time when many are still recovering from wildfires and facing potential funding cuts. The statements reaffirmed the vital role immigrants play in the local economy and called on federal leaders to focus on policies that strengthen, rather than divide, our communities. Read the most recent statement here.
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Chamber Supports Tourism Wage Referendum
This week, the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Governors voted to support the referendum on the Living Wage Ordinance passed by the L.A. City Council. The decision reflects the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to policies that promote economic growth while safeguarding jobs and small businesses. For more than two years, the Chamber has engaged with city leaders to propose thoughtful alternatives, measures aimed at uplifting workers without placing unsustainable burdens on employers. The final version of the ordinance, however, lacks balance and poses significant risks to the region’s tourism sector. By supporting the referendum, the Chamber is taking a principled stand for wage policies that are both fair and economically responsible.
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Chamber Highlights Small Business Wildfire Recovery Fund at Board Meeting
At the recent Board of Governors meeting, the Chamber shared key updates on its efforts to support small businesses, strengthen the regional economy, and lead through ongoing challenges. Since launching the Small Business Disaster Recovery Fund on May 7, the Chamber has received hundreds of applications, with grant disbursements, technical assistance, and training already underway, reflecting our continued commitment to recovery and economic resilience. The Chamber will continue to work with Lendistry to expand the fund to support small businesses with technical assistance, financial grants and low cost loans.
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Chamber Celebrates One-Year Countdown to FIFA World Cup 2026 in L.A.
This week marked the one-year countdown to the first match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, and the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce proudly joined citywide celebrations spotlighting ongoing preparations. Chamber members, including the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams, stood alongside civic and business leaders to commemorate this global milestone. As Los Angeles prepares to host one of the world’s most significant sporting events, the Chamber remains committed to fostering strategic partnerships that ensure the World Cup generates lasting economic benefits for our businesses, communities, and the region.
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World Bank Forecast on U.S. Trade Policy
This week, the World Bank reported that recent U.S. trade policy has caused widespread uncertainty and lowered economic output. It recommends that we “course correct” soon to avoid lasting harm to American living standards. The on-again, off-again approach to tariff policy has disrupted global trade and increased the cost of living for Americans. Unfortunately for our region, these moves coincide with the need to reconstruct large swaths of the county devastated by January’s wildfires. In addition to the thousands of homes that burnt down, more than 1,800 businesses were damaged or destroyed along with critical utility infrastructure. Read more about the World Bank's report here.
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Port of Long Beach Awards $4 Million to Respiratory Health Groups
The Port of Long Beach announced nearly $4 million in grants to support respiratory health programs across the region. The funds, distributed through its Community Grants Program, will support efforts such as asthma management, air quality monitoring, and treatment access, especially benefiting low-income and high-risk communities near the port. The initiative aligns with the port’s ongoing Clean Air Action Plan and broader mission to reduce pollution and protect public health. These grants underscore the port’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its role as an economic and civic steward in the region. Read more here.
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Chamber Joins Reception Honoring Australian Wildfire Delegation
The Chamber attended a reception hosted by Australian Consul-General Tanya Bennett to welcome senior Australian wildfire and emergency management experts. The event offered an opportunity to exchange best practices, strengthen ties between Australia and California, and support shared approaches to wildfire response.
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Thank You to Our Sponsors and Panelists for a Successful Procurement Fair
Thank you to our generous sponsors, Citi, PNC Bank, Amazon, LA Metro, and the State of California Department of General Services, whose support made the Get in the Game Procurement Fair a success. Your partnership was key to connecting local businesses with public and private sector buyers and advancing inclusive procurement opportunities. We also extend our gratitude to the insightful panelists who shared valuable expertise to help businesses navigate the procurement process and position themselves for growth. We look forward to building on this momentum together. View photos here.
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Upcoming Webinar: Immigration Compliance for Small Businesses
Join the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) for an insightful virtual workshop on Wednesday, June 18 at 1:00 p.m.: Immigration Compliance for Small Businesses: I-9 Audits, Enforcement Trends, and Worker Protections. This webinar will provide practical guidance to help business owners and HR professionals navigate common immigration compliance challenges. Attendees will learn how to maintain a lawful workplace, protect employees, and avoid costly penalties. Register here.
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Public Counsel Issues Alert on ICE Access and Workplace Protections
Public Counsel has issued an important alert on immigration enforcement guidelines for nonprofits, small businesses, and childcare providers. While Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) may enter public areas of your facility, they cannot access private spaces without a warrant or consent. Stay informed to protect your workplace and the people you serve. For more information.
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Celebrating Pride Month
This June, the L.A. Area Chamber joins communities across the country in celebrating Pride Month, honoring the history, contributions, and resilience of LGBTQ+ individuals who strengthen our businesses and enrich our region. We remain committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable economy where everyone feels valued and empowered to thrive.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Education & Workforce Development Policy Council
Tuesday, June 24, 10:00 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join the upcoming Education & Workforce Development Policy Council to hear of legislative updates impacting the business community.
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Pancakes & Politics
Thursday, June 26, 8:30 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join the L.A. Area Chamber for our Pancakes & Politics Speaker Series featuring Dee Dee Myers, Director of Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.
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Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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