Mayor Karen Bass Shares Vision for a Stronger, Inclusive Los Angeles at ACCESS L.A.
Mayor Karen Bass joined the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce at City Hall for ACCESS L.A. 2025, sharing her vision for a stronger and more inclusive Los Angeles. In her remarks, Mayor Bass highlighted the city’s key priorities, including economic development, housing, homelessness, and recovery efforts following January’s devastating wildfires. She emphasized the vital role of collaboration among the business community, civic leaders, and policymakers in shaping policies that create opportunity and drive growth across the region.
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ACCESS L.A. Delegation Meets with City and County Leaders to Discuss Key Regional Priorities
Following the ACCESS L.A. program, the Chamber’s delegation of business, civic, and nonprofit leaders participated in advocacy meetings with Los Angeles City Councilmembers and County Supervisors, including Mayor Bass’ Chief of Staff Mitch Kamin, Supervisor Hilda Solis, City Administrative Officer Matt Szabo, and Councilmember Imelda Padilla. The discussions focused on key issues impacting the region, including housing, homelessness, infrastructure, public safety, and economic development. Delegates shared the business community’s priorities and explored collaborative solutions to drive sustainable growth and opportunity across Los Angeles.
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Chamber Hosts Health Care Roundtable with Former HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra
The Chamber hosted a Health Care Roundtable featuring the Hon. Xavier Becerra, former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, bringing together members from across the health care sector. In a time of challenge, Secretary Becerra urged health care leaders to hold onto kernels of hope and to unite in advocating for the well-being of both the sector and the families it serves. Thank you to our sponsor, First 5 LA. View event photos here.
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Governor Signs Bills Supporting California Restaurants
Governor Gavin Newsom signed two new laws aimed at helping small restaurant owners thrive. AB 592 expands outdoor dining options by easing design restrictions, while AB 671 streamlines permitting for retrofitted spaces, allowing faster openings without compromising safety. Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas joined the signing at Joyce, a local L.A. restaurant. The bills reflect strong input from restaurateurs and chambers statewide. With over 86,000 restaurants and 1.8 million jobs, these reforms support a vital sector of California’s economy and community life.
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L.A. County Supervisors Review Impacts of Federal Shutdown on County Programs
The L.A. County Board of Supervisors reviewed the impact of the federal shutdown on County operations. Essential programs like Social Security, SNAP, and Medi-Cal will continue, but discretionary services—such as nutrition aid for women and children—may pause if the shutdown persists. Federal grant reimbursements and housing repairs could face delays. The Chamber will monitor developments and update members accordingly.
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Chamber-Backed SB 415 Becomes Law, Clarifying and Streamlining Warehouse Siting Rules
Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill (SB) 415 into law. Supported by the Chamber, the bill provides technical clarifications to AB 98, last session’s warehouse legislation that established statewide siting standards and buffer requirements for new large-scale warehouse developments. SB 415 ensures the law is practical and enforceable while maintaining AB 98’s core environmental and community protections. Read more about the bill and coalition here.
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Port of Long Beach CEO Mario Cordero Announces Retirement
After eight years of transformative leadership, Mario Cordero will retire as CEO of the Port of Long Beach at the end of 2025. A Long Beach native and former FMC Chair, he advanced sustainability, record cargo volumes, and resilience during global disruptions. His legacy includes the pioneering Green Port Policy and lasting environmental stewardship. We congratulate Mario Cordero, a member of our Board, on his retirement and thank him for his decades of public service and leadership in advancing Southern California’s role in global commerce. Read the official press statement from the Port of Long Beach here.
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FIFA World Cup 2026 L.A. Local Supplier Interest Program
FIFA and the L.A. Host Committee are inviting Los Angeles–based businesses to participate in event production opportunities. Please review the listed disciplines and criteria before submitting the Interest Form. Selected companies will be contacted for next steps, while others will remain on file for future opportunities. For more information, visit here.
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Los Angeles Department of Health Services: Crafting Winning Proposals Webinar
Join Los Angeles County Health Services on Thursday, November 20, at 1:00 p.m. for a one-hour webinar designed to help you enhance your proposal writing and increase your success in contracting with LA County. Learn practical tips for crafting strong, competitive proposals. To register, email here.
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Council District 7: Rapid Response Grant Fund
If you or a family member has been detained by immigration, you may be eligible for financial relief. In partnership with Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez, this program assists District 7 residents experiencing hardship due to immigration detention. Apply here.
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LA28 Seeks Creative Partners for 2028 Games
LA28 invites agencies to express interest in supporting creative efforts for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Agencies of all sizes and specialties are encouraged to apply by Thursday, October 17, 5 p.m. Selected partners may be invited to participate in a future sourcing opportunity. Learn more and apply here.
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Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
This week, we are proud to spotlight Gerard Orozco, SVP of Growth & Strategy at Jacobs, who brings two decades of leadership to global and local initiatives. A dedicated civic contributor, he serves on several boards, including the L.A. Area Chamber, Luskin School of Public Policy, and UNICEF. Gerard’s work bridges business, policy, and community impact across Los Angeles and beyond.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Transportation & Goods Movement Policy Council
Tuesday, October 14, 8:30 a.m.
Join the Transportation & Goods Movement Policy Council for a special session featuring Gloria Roberts, Director of Caltrans District 7, and gain firsthand insights into regional transportation priorities and the future of mobility in Southern California.
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Get in the Game: Understanding the California Retirement State Mandate
Tuesday, October 14, 10:00 a.m.
ADP Division Vice President, Chris Shaw, will explore the effects of the California Retirement State Mandate on your business, including ways to remain compliant, possible penalties for non-compliance, potential tax savings opportunities, the pros and cons of the retirement plan options available, and the overall impact on your business and employees.
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Education & Workforce Development Policy Council
Tuesday, October 21, 10:00 a.m.
Join the upcoming Education & Workforce Development Policy Council to learn about statewide bills to bolster education and career-to-workforce readiness.
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