Council President Harris-Dawson Meets with Chamber Delegation
This week, the Chamber visited L.A. County and L.A. City elected members and administration leaders for ACCESS L.A. The annual delegation visit provided members with an opportunity to discuss key issues affecting the business community. Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas, along with several Board members and attendees met with the newly appointed City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson to discuss the significant impact of the proposed Living Wage Ordinance, as well as how the public and private sectors can collaborate to prepare the region for upcoming global sporting events, including the 2028 Olympic Games.
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ACCESS L.A. Provides a Platform for Meaningful Dialogue
The Chamber's ACCESS L.A. delegation visit featured several meetings with city and county policymakers. Policymakers engaged in meaningful discussions about key issues shaping our region’s future, including housing and homelessness, transportation and infrastructure investments, workforce development, public safety, and preparations for major global sporting events. The delegation met with City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson, Deputy Mayors Rachel Freeman and Randall Winston, City Administrative Officer Matt Szabo, Council President Emeritus Paul Krekorian, and Councilmembers Katy Young Yaroslavsky, Monica Rodriguez, Traci Park, Hugo Soto-Martinez, and many more.
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New Economic Development Committee to Address Tourism Wage Ordinance
On Tuesday, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously approved Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson's motion to transfer jurisdiction over wage-related matters from the Trade, Travel, and Tourism Committee to the newly established committee: Economic Development, Community, and Jobs Committee. The new committee will be chaired by Councilmember Curren Price. The L.A. Area Chamber leads the Alliance for Economic Fairness, which has been mobilizing around the proposed Living Wage Ordinance.
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Insurance Commissioner Hosts Summit for Small Businesses
California's Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara hosted the annual Insurance Diversity Summit in Long Beach this week, highlighting the department's commitment to diversifying procurement opportunities in the insurance industry. The event was led by Chandara Phanachone, the newly appointed Chief of Insurance Diversity & Innovation, and Mark Morales, Chair of the Insurance Diversity Taskforce. The summit focused on small business inclusion and provided resources for contracting assistance and access to capital. L.A. Area Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas delivered remarks on procurement opportunities and information about the Get in the Game Initiative.
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Special Session Addressing Gasoline Prices Advances
In a special session called by Governor Gavin Newsom, the California Senate will consider ABx2-1 (Hart) today to address rising gasoline prices by requiring oil refiners to maintain minimum fuel reserves to stabilize consumer costs. The Assembly will hold a concurrence vote on Monday. The proposal is expected to advance quickly, with the Governor expected to sign the bill soon after its passage. The Chamber joined an opposition letter at the beginning of the session, organized by the Western States Petroleum Association.
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Council Considers Motion to Study Skills-Based Hiring
This week the Los Angeles City Council heard a motion from Councilmembers Eunisses Hernandez and Tim McOsker to explore the feasibility of revising L.A. City hiring protocols. This change would enable applicants without formal education requirements to be considered for positions based on their skill-based work experiences. The Chamber will closely monitor the study and its potential implications for the city’s workforce.
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Global Strife Could Cost Global Economy $14.5 Trillion
Lloyd's of London has warned, a geopolitical conflict could cause global economic losses of $14.5 trillion over five years, largely due to disrupted supply chains and damaged infrastructure. With over 80% of global trade relying on sea routes, the closure of major shipping lanes poses a significant risk to the global economy. Current conflicts around the world have already impacted shipping routes in the Black and Red Seas. Lloyd's, in partnership with the Cambridge Centre for Risk Studies, is also studying other systemic risks such as cyber-attacks and extreme weather events. Read more here.
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OneLA Procurement Fair: Meet the Buyer Training Workshop
Looking to meet one-on-one with buyers at the OneLA Procurement Fair? To be eligible for matchmaking appointments, you must attend a 'Meet the Buyer' workshop. You can choose from one of two available sessions happening on October 14 or 21. These sessions will help your organization prepare, and is a valuable opportunity to gain insights on winning government contracts, and grow your business network. Register here.
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Get in the Game with Chamber's Economic Mobility Initiative
Prepare to "Get in the Game" and unlock amazing opportunities in Los Angeles as we approach the 2028 Olympics! Join the Chamber's Economic Mobility Initiative's (EMI) free training program which empowers small businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits throughout L.A. County. Powered by the OneLA Inclusive Procurement program, EMI provides personalized guidance to help you navigate contracts, certifications, and more. This valuable resource hub is your gateway to strengthening and growing your business with a focus on long-term success and sustainability. Sign up today.
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LISC: ABC Acquisition Capital Program
Are you a small business or non-profit in L.A. County looking to purchase commercial or mixed-use property? ABC’s Acquisition Capital program offers 0% interest and flexible financing to help you achieve your goals. Eligible organizations can receive up to 20% of the property’s purchase price, with a minimum purchase requirement of $500,000. Whether you're seeking office space or retail property, this is a great opportunity to invest in your future. Don’t miss out—get the support you need to grow and thrive. Learn more about the program here.
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Register Today for the 2024 Education Summit
Don't miss the 2024 Education Summit! Regional business, education, and policy leaders will come together on how to create greater collaboration in shaping the workforce of the future. Register here.
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Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
The Chamber is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month by honoring the contributions of Hispanics who have enriched our communities and nation. This week, we spotlight Carmen Torres, CEO & Chief HR Specialist at My HR Specialist, and author of The Smart HR Solution. Aside from running a successful business, she is also a community leader, including serving as a Chamber Ambassador.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Health Care Council
Tuesday, October 15, 10:00 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join the Health Care Council for a special session on legislative updates impacting the business community.
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Ad Hoc on Homelessness Committee
Wednesday, October 16, 9:00 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join the Ad Hoc on Homelessness Committee for a special session on legislative updates impacting the housing community.
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Diplomatic & Commercial Officers Group
Wednesday, October 23, 8:30 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join us for the next Diplomatic & Commercial Officers Group meeting, where we will explore the EU AI Act, the world's first comprehensive legal framework for artificial intelligence (AI). The conversation will explore what this means for businesses and examine similar efforts taking place in the U.S.
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Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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