Government Reopens After Longest Shutdown in History
After the longest federal shutdown in U.S. history, the government reopened this week. The continuing resolution funds operations through the end of January 2026, provides relief to the 42 million Americans who rely on SNAP benefits, and allows federal employees to receive paychecks after weeks of delay. However, the agreement does not extend the ACA premium tax credits, meaning health insurance costs could rise sharply, potentially leaving millions without coverage. The Chamber joined the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in advocating for the government’s reopening, which had caused significant disruption for individuals and businesses nationwide.
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Rent Stabilization Ordinance Amendment Approved
On Wednesday, the Los Angeles City Council voted 12-2 to amend the Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO), lowering the annual rent increase cap to 4%. The Chamber provided public comment and previously submitted a letter to the Housing and Homelessness Committee outlining potential unintended consequences of the original proposal, including reduced investment in RSO properties, higher rent adjustments during tenant turnover, and a less flexible rental market. While the Council’s final package is less restrictive than the Committee’s initial proposal, the RSO changes may still challenge property owners’ ability to keep pace with rising operational costs and could influence future investment in the city’s housing stock.
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Councilmember Traci Park Highlights Policy Priorities at Pancakes & Politics
This week’s Accenture Pancakes & Politics featured a fireside chat with Los Angeles City Councilmember Hon. Traci Park (District 11) and Chamber Chief Policy Officer Carlos Singer. Councilmember Park provided updates on wildfire recovery, streamlined permitting and building approvals, key infrastructure investments, and potential Charter reforms.
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LA Metro Appoints First-Ever Chief of Police to Lead New Public Safety Department
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) has appointed William “Bill” Scott as its first Chief of Police and Emergency Management. With over 35 years of law enforcement experience, including leadership roles in the LAPD and as San Francisco Police Chief, Scott will oversee Metro’s new Transit Community Public Safety Department and lead security preparations for major upcoming events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics. The Chamber looks forward to welcoming Chief Scott on behalf of the business community at an upcoming reception and supporting his efforts to ensure safe, reliable, and secure transit across the region.
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Chamber Supports Cooperative Agreement Between SCAQMD and Port Authorities
Last Friday, the Chamber testified in support of a proposed cooperative agreement between the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) and the ports to manage emission rates. After extensive deliberation, the AQMD governing board voted to approve the agreement. The Chamber will continue to monitor next steps and keep members informed, as this decision will have implications for all stakeholders involved in the movement of goods.
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Governor Newsom Represents California at Global Climate Conference
Governor Gavin Newsom is representing California at this year’s United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30), underscoring the growing influence of state-level leadership in global climate diplomacy. The conference, held in Belém, Brazil, brings together signatory nations to address the world’s most urgent climate challenges. Marking the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, COP30 aims to reinvigorate international collaboration and accelerate progress toward the treaty’s 1.5°C climate goal. For live updates from the conference, visit here.
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Chamber Foundation Programs Empower Small Businesses with Guidance and Resources
Programs offered by the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation help small businesses grow through personalized support and targeted resources. The Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) Program offers one-on-one advising in marketing, access to capital, financial planning, and tax matters. The SCALE initiative helps underserved firms build leadership capacity and secure loans. And the Get in the Game Resource Hub provides procurement training, certification guidance, and a digital platform connecting businesses with advisors and tools. For more information on these initiatives, visit here.
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Supporting Micro-Enterprises: Free Business Resources from L.A. County
Los Angeles County’s Department of Economic Opportunity provides micro-enterprises and entrepreneurs with free one-on-one counseling to start or grow their businesses. Services include guidance on certification and vendor registration for county contracts, as well as access to webinars and workshops on contracting, marketing, and compliance. The office also connects businesses to workforce services and incentive programs, all designed to help small and micro-businesses thrive. For more information, visit here.
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State-Mandated Retirement Savings Plans
ADP helps employers navigate state-mandated retirement savings plans. Their compliance page provides a clear overview of current laws, such as California’s CalSavers Program, including registration requirements, key deadlines, and potential penalties for non-compliance. For more information, email Chris Shaw with ADP here.
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CEO Council Discusses LAX Master Plan and Vision for Global Gateway
Members of the Chamber’s CEO Council met with Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) Chief Executive Officer John Ackerman, who provided an update on the LAX Master Plan. Sean Burton, former President of the LAWA Board of Commissioners and President & CEO of Cityview, shared insights on the strategic goals established for LAWA to address the growing needs of the greater Los Angeles region. CEO Ackerman highlighted LAWA’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure and enhancing the traveler experience, reinforcing Los Angeles’ status as a leading global gateway.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Ad Hoc on Homelessness Committee
Monday, November 17, 8:00 a.m.
MEMBER-ONLY EVENT
Join the upcoming Ad Hoc on Homelessness Committee to hear from featured speaker Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, LA County Board of Supervisors, 3rd District.
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LAST CALL: Shape the Future at the Chamber’s Business & Education Innovation Summit
Tuesday, November 18, 9:00 a.m.
Join top regional leaders to explore strategies that align education with workforce needs and drive growth in key industries. Network with decision-makers shaping the future of business and education, and contribute to programs and policies preparing tomorrow’s workforce. Register now to be part of the conversation!
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