L.A. City Council Approves Living Wage and Hotel Worker Minimum Wage Ordinances
The Los Angeles City Council voted 12-3 on Wednesday to approve the Living Wage and Hotel Worker Minimum Wage Ordinances, gradually increasing the minimum wage at the airport and in hotels, resulting in a 55% increase to the labor cost over the next three years. The Chamber expressed concern that such an increase will put jobs at risk and threaten future investments in the City of Los Angeles. Read our full statement here.
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New Report Highlights Troubling Economic Impact in Fast Food Industry
The Center for Jobs and the Economy has released a special report analyzing the impact of the state's recent implementation of a $20 per hour minimum wage for fast food chains. Drawing on data from the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), the report challenges claims based on estimates, revealing that job numbers were already declining before the policy took effect. According to the report, this trend accelerated sharply once the increased labor costs were implemented. Many fast food chains are operated by small business owners who operate under a franchise agreements. Read the report here.
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Chamber Hosts LA28 on Plans for Small Business Procurement
The Chamber welcomed Erikk Aldridge, Vice President of Impact at LA28, the non-profit, private organization responsible for delivering the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, for a discussion on contracting and broader opportunities surrounding the 2028 games. Erikk encouraged members to connect with organizations like the Chamber that are providing resources in the lead up to 2028. Participants were encouraged to 'get in the game' and become prepared for the enormous procurement opportunities coming to the region. Watch the event recording here.
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Chamber Celebrates Holiday VIP at Historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
The Chamber closed the year on a high note with our 2024 Holiday VIP event at the 1923 Club at the iconic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas welcomed the Board, members, partners, and special guests, reflecting on the L.A. Area Chamber’s impactful work and the vital role the business community plays in Los Angeles. George Pla, First Vice Chair, and incoming 2025 Board Chair, delivered inspiring remarks, sharing the Chamber’s vision for the year ahead. The event was made possible with the generous support of sponsors: Chevron, AC Martin, CBRE, and Kinder Morgan, Inc. View photos from the event here.
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L.A. County District Attorney Hochman Rescinds Policies
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced policy changes aimed at improving public safety in the county by pursuing higher sentences for serious and violent offenders. These changes reverse former District Attorney George Gascón’s Dec. 7, 2020, special directives, which limited the filing of certain charges and sentencing enhancements.
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CHIP Passes City Council
On Tuesday, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously approved the Citywide Housing Incentive Program (CHIP) Ordinance. Over the past year, the Chamber has worked closely with housing experts and stakeholders on CHIP, including the City Planning Commission. The ordinance amends the Los Angeles Municipal Code (LAMC) to streamline project review processes and introduce new incentives for eligible developments. As part of the Housing Element Rezoning Program, CHIP aims to tackle the city's housing crisis and fulfill state-mandated housing obligations.
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Port of Los Angeles One of Nation's Top Ports
The Port of Los Angeles and Port Laredo, Texas, are in a close race for the title as the nation's top trade gateway. According to U.S. Census Bureau data for October, the Port of Los Angeles ranked as the top U.S. port for the second consecutive month and the third time in four months. In July 2024, Los Angeles surpassed Laredo to claim the top spot. However, Laredo briefly reclaimed its lead in August with $30.7 billion in trade. Both ports are on track to achieve record-breaking trade volumes for 2024, highlighting their crucial roles in U.S. commerce. Learn more here.
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L.A. Area Chamber Participates in LA28 Procurement Workshop
The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce participated in the LA28 Olympics and Paralympics Procurement Workshop, hosted by Mayor Karen Bass and LA28 CEO Reynold Hoover at Los Angeles City Hall. This event brought together local government, community-based organizations, and diverse businesses, fostering meaningful engagement with the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games Committee and emphasizing their commitment to an inclusive procurement program.
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Economic Opportunity Holiday Grant 2024
Attention small businesses and nonprofits! Don’t miss the opportunity to apply for L.A. County Small Business Grants. These grants provide financial support to help you grow, recover, and thrive. Applications are open now. Visit here for more details and to submit your application before December 31, 2024. Act fast and take advantage of this incredible resource!
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L.A. City: Al Fresco Ordinance
Attention small business owners! The City of Los Angeles invites you to enhance your business with the Al Fresco Ordinance Outdoor Dining Program. Discover how to create inviting outdoor spaces that attract more customers and increase your revenue. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow your business and make your space more welcoming and vibrant. Learn more here.
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Up for Growth Releases New Housing Underproduction Report
Up for Growth released their latest Housing Underproduction report, highlighting key trends and regional insights into the U.S. housing shortage. The report breaks the data down by state and housing market, with insights and solutions tailored to each unique challenge. View the full report here.
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Congratulations to the Los Angeles Galaxy: MLS Cup Champions
The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce proudly congratulates the Los Angeles Galaxy, parent company, and Chamber member AEG Worldwide on their victory in the MLS Cup Championship! This marked the Galaxy's sixth Cup Championship—the most in MLS history—and their first Cup since 2014.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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2025 Inaugural: Building a Legacy Together
Join us for the L.A. Area Chamber's annual Inaugural on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 —the region’s premier business event! Consider sponsoring this impactful event to directly support the Chamber’s mission. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Chris Luna here.
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Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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