Chamber Marks Wildfire Anniversary with Focus on Small Business Recovery
The L.A. Area Chamber marked the first anniversary of the Los Angeles wildfires by convening community stakeholders to focus on small business recovery. Business, academic, philanthropic, and government leaders discussed policy and advocacy priorities, rebuilding challenges, and the need for a holistic, concurrent approach that supports both residents and business owners as communities recover. The convening aligned priorities and advanced solutions for small businesses impacted by the 2025 wildfires. Read the press statement here.
|
Newsom Highlights Economic Strength in Final State of the State
Governor Gavin Newsom delivered his final State of the State address on Thursday, highlighting California’s investments in jobs, education, affordability, climate action, and recovery from the Los Angeles wildfires, even amid disruptive federal policies. Citing California as the world’s fourth-largest economy, the Governor underscored the state’s economic strength, pointing to its leadership in research and development, patents, manufacturing, agriculture, and startups. View the full address here.
|
In the News: Chamber CEO on Health Care & L.A.’s Economy
The Los Angeles Business Journal published an op-ed by Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas, highlighting the essential role health care plays in sustaining our regional economy. In the piece, Maria underscores how access to quality, affordable health care is not only a public health priority, but a critical economic driver, supporting workforce stability, business productivity, and long-term growth across Los Angeles County. As employers continue to navigate rising costs and workforce challenges, the op-ed makes the case for policies that strengthen the health care system while supporting businesses of all sizes. Read Maria’s op-ed here.
|
Governor Newsom Expands Support for Wildfire Recovery
Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order to support homeowners and small businesses impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires. The order extends price-gouging protections, authorizes longer leases for damaged concession businesses, and maintains flexibilities for alcoholic-beverage licenses. It also expedites rebuilding by reaffirming CEQA and Coastal Act waivers, helping accelerate recovery for affected communities and local economies. Learn more here.
|
New Laws for 2026
The Governor announced key laws taking effect in 2026, underscoring California’s continued focus on public safety, affordability, and accountability. Last year, the State Legislature passed 917 bills, with the Governor vetoing 123 bills. The Chamber advocated for several priority measures impacting the Los Angeles region and statewide interests. Among the bills passed, the Chamber supported AB 489 (Bonta), which prohibits language suggesting that advice or care provided by AI technology is equivalent to that of a healthcare professional, and SB 79 (Wiener), which allows critical zoning reforms to facilitate housing development near transit stops across California. CalMatters has compiled a list of new laws to view here.
|
Olympic Zoning Exemption Ordinance
The Los Angeles City Planning Commission (CPC) unanimously approved the draft 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Planning and Zoning Exemption Ordinance this week. The Ordinance exempts certain Games-related projects from planning entitlements, zoning regulations, and conditions, and would sunset six months after the conclusion of the Games on February 27, 2029. The Ordinance will now be considered by the City Council's Ad Hoc Committee for the Olympics and Paralympic Games and the Planning and Land Use Management Committee.
|
L.A. Area Chamber and Queensland Chamber Explore Olympic Collaboration
Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas met with Heidi Cooper, CEO of Business Chamber Queensland, from Brisbane, Australia, to share insights on the Olympic and Paralympic Games preparations related to small businesses. The conversation focused on the Chamber’s Get in the Game initiative, sustainability, AI adaptation, and potential joint programming, with both organizations aligned on supporting small business success. Brisbane will host the 2032 Summer Olympic Games.
|
A New Year of Growth for Small Businesses
Kick off the New Year with purpose! Your donation powers Chamber Foundation programs that empower small businesses and strengthen our community. Every gift expands training, mentorship, and resources, creating opportunities and resilience for entrepreneurs. Join us in making 2026 a year where dreams grow, success thrives, and everyone rises together. Learn more here.
|
Resilient & Ready: Your Guide to Small Business Success
The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation programs are offered at no cost, giving small businesses access to expert guidance, training, and support without financial barriers. From resilience planning to growth strategies, we provide entrepreneurs with practical tools to adapt, recover, and thrive, strengthening both businesses and communities, because opportunity should be accessible to all. For more information on our programs, visit here.
|
Get in the Game: Unlock Opportunities with the California Department of General Services
Join us Tuesday, January 20, at 11:00 a.m. for an informative virtual session as part of our Get in the Game Series: Doing Business with the California Department of General Services. Discover how certifications can strengthen your competitive edge and learn the key steps for small businesses to pursue opportunities with California state agencies in government procurement. Register here.
|
Showcase Your Business with an Advertisement in the 2026 Digital Membership Directory
The Chamber’s Digital Membership Directory is a powerful way to showcase your business and gain regional exposure. Last year, the directory generated over 500,000 impressions—don’t miss your chance to reach thousands of engaged professionals. Contact Chris Smith at Town Square Publications, 859-801-7210, to secure your spot today.
|
COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
|
Education & Workforce Development Policy Council
Tuesday, January 27, 10:00 a.m.
MEMBER-ONLY EVENT
Please join the upcoming Education & Workforce Development Policy Council to learn about statewide bills to bolster education and career-to-workforce readiness.
|
Sponsor Today: 2026 Inaugural
Thursday, February 5, 2026
Ray Dolby Ballroom
Join the L.A. Area Chamber for a memorable evening where we will honor outstanding leaders and welcome our incoming Board Chair, Andy Park. Your sponsorship ensures visibility among top business and civic leaders while supporting the Chamber’s mission to drive economic growth and opportunity. Make an impact — secure your sponsorship today.
|
@LAChamberMaria
|
@LAChamberMaria
|
@LAChamberMaria
|
|
|
|
