Mayor Bass Highlights Key Updates with Chamber Board
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass met with the L.A. Area Chamber Board this week to discuss key city priorities, including the budget, the Los Angeles Convention Center expansion, and the launch of a public-private partnership to fund, redesign, and rebuild the Palisades Recreation Center. Mayor Bass also shared updates on recovery efforts in the Palisades, highlighting resources being provided such as expedited permitting, mental health support, dispute resolution services, and the development of local resource centers.
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LAUSD Superintendent Shares District Milestones
Alberto M. Carvalho, Superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), provided the L.A. Area Chamber Board with an update on regional school performance improvements. LAUSD continues to make academic gains that outpace state and national trends, including achieving the highest graduation rates in decades. Superintendent Carvalho also discussed major investments in infrastructure and career pathways, as well as federal opportunities and challenges. He reaffirmed LAUSD’s bold vision to become the nation’s leading public education system.
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Chamber Opposes Costly Wage Mandate Amid City Budget Shortfall
This week, the Chamber, and the Alliance for Economic Fairness issued letters expressing strong opposition to a proposed draft ordinance that would impose the nation’s most costly industry-specific minimum wage and benefits mandate. In the letters to the L.A. Mayor, City Council, and key stakeholders, Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas urged city leaders to reconsider the proposal on behalf of a broad business coalition. With Los Angeles facing a $1 billion budget shortfall, the Chamber emphasized the need to prioritize economic recovery and growth—not additional burdens that could drive business out of the region.
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Fderal Administration's Tariffs Escalate Trade Tensions
U.S. tariffs are a tax on imports passed on to consumers, resulting in price increases that will drive up inflation, cut real incomes and impact consumption, and GDP growth. This week, President Trump paused sweeping tariffs for 90 days, but also imposed a new minimum 10% tariff on all imports on 57 countries, effective April 9. In response, China raised tariffs on U.S. goods to 125%, starting April 12. These moves have triggered market volatility and raised concerns about inflation and strained global trade relations. The Chamber is closely monitoring the situation and its potential impact on our regional economy.
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SCAQMD to Discuss Proposed Rule 2304
The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) will hold a working group meeting on the implementation and enforcement processes for Proposed Rule 2304 (Port ISR) on Wednesday, April 16 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will cover potential implications for grants, incentives, and other updates. The Chamber encourages members to attend or submit feedback to AQMD staff. The Chamber remains opposed to the rule and advocates for infrastructure investments to support the ports' transition to zero-emission operations. We also call for collaboration with stakeholders to ensure a balanced approach that protects jobs, economic growth, and regional competitiveness.
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Chamber Supports AB 342 for Downtown L.A. Revitalization
The Chamber joined state and local officials, along with other stakeholders, to support AB 342, a key initiative in revitalizing Downtown Los Angeles' night and weekend economy, by creating hospitality zones and extends operating hours. This legislation strengthens competitiveness in attracting major conventions and large-scale events to the Los Angeles Convention Center—critical opportunities for the region’s economic recovery. Additionally, AB 342 supports the continued growth of the hospitality and tourism sector, reinforcing Los Angeles as a world-class destination and driving economic growth across the region.
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World Trade Week Honorees Announced
The Chamber is pleased to announce this year’s World Trade Week honorees. Dr. Noel Hacegaba, Chief Operating Officer at the Port of Long Beach, will be recognized with the Stanley T. Olafson Award for his outstanding leadership in global trade. Pacific Harbor Line will receive the Bob Kleist Leadership Award for their significant contributions to trade and logistics. Join us on May 1 to celebrate these exceptional leaders and the impacts of international trade on regional economies.
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Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers Webinar: April 16
The L.A. County Fair Chance Ordinance went into effect on September 3, 2024, ensuring fair and equitable employment opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals. If you're an employer in Los Angeles County, this ordinance affects your business! Join this webinar to learn effective hiring processes, compliance, and discover practical strategies to reduce attrition. Free technical support will be available to attendees after the session. Register here and download your free L.A. County Required Workplace Posting here.
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Procurement Accelerator - Contracting Training Certification
Cohort III of the Economic Mobility Initiative is now accepting applications. This exclusive program offers small businesses access to certification and government contracting opportunities, valuable resources, expert mentorship, and personalized guidance to fuel growth and ensure long-term success. Participants will gain the tools and connections needed to compete for larger contracts and expand their business networks. Learn more and apply today.
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Buildup LA Series: LA Fire Recovery Summit: April 29
As part of the BuildUp L.A. Series, BizFed announces the 'L.A. Fire Recovery Summit,' bringing together community leaders, experts, and residents to support recovery and resilience after the recent fires. Explore available resources, connect with others, and contribute to shaping a stronger, safer Los Angeles. Register here.
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Register for the LABC Mayoral Housing, Transportation & Jobs Summit
Join us for the 23rd Annual LABC Mayoral Housing, Transportation & Jobs Summit on April 25 at the UCLA Meyer & Renee Luskin Conference Center. This event will bring together top policymakers, business leaders, and industry experts to discuss solutions for enhancing the livability and economic competitiveness of Los Angeles and California. Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in high-level discussions on housing, transportation, and jobs. Secure your spot today.
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Banc of California Outlines Plans for Growth
For over 80 years, Banc of California has been committed to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises. Following its recent merger with PacWest, Banc of California has become the third-largest bank headquartered in Los Angeles. Learn more here.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Pancakes & Politics
Thursday, April 17, 8:30 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join the L.A. Area Chamber for our Pancakes & Politics Speaker Series featuring Matthew Szabo, City Administrative Officer for the City of Los Angeles.
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ACCESS Sacramento
Tuesday, April 22, 2025
Join ACCESS Sacramento for a unique opportunity to engage with key policymakers and advocate for a globally competitive region. Be part of our delegation as we champion policies that strengthen businesses, drive job creation, and foster economic prosperity across the region.
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Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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