New Data Shows Continued Decrease in L.A. County Homelessness
For the second year in a row, Los Angeles County has seen a reduction in homelessness. According to the 2025 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count, there was a 2.2 percent decrease in homelessness countywide and a 10.4 percent decrease among families. While challenges remain, these results suggest that increased coordination, better housing interventions, and strategic investments are making an impact. LAHSA’s latest report highlights that over 27,300 people were permanently housed in 2024, and nearly 100,000 received outreach or shelter services. The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce remains committed to continuing to monitor efforts to address homelessness. Learn more about the 2025 Homeless Count results here.
|
Sweeping Federal Bill Raises Economic, Social Concerns for L.A.
The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA), signed into law on July 4, is a sweeping 900-page tax and spending package that enacts significant changes to federal policy, funding, and regulation, impacting nearly every sector and household across the country. While the bill features pro-growth tax reforms designed to support business investment, it also includes deep cuts to healthcare and nutrition programs, potentially increasing costs for families. OBBBA further rescinds major climate and sustainability investments originally established under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Amid heightened immigration enforcement in Los Angeles, the bill’s increased funding for detention and enforcement raises concerns about long-term effects on public safety, community trust, and the regional economy. Read the Chamber's full briefing paper here.
|
Chamber Engages in State Hearing on LA28 Olympic Preparations
Last week, the Chamber joined a pivotal informational hearing on international sporting events, chaired by State Senator Ben Allen. Titled “California Goes for the Gold,” the session highlighted both the opportunities and the challenges ahead as Los Angeles prepares to host the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Speakers, including Ryan Becker (Visit California), Reynold Hoover (LA28), City Council President Emeritus Paul Krekorian (City of Los Angeles), and Fesia Davenport (CEO of L.A. County), shared a unified vision: to make LA28 not just a historic event, but a lasting civic legacy. The Chamber remains committed to advancing business and community priorities as Los Angeles steps onto the global stage.
|
UCLA Calls for Reforms to Measure ULA Amid Housing Slowdowns
On Monday, UCLA researchers presented findings to the Los Angeles City Health Commission on the impact of Measure ULA on multifamily housing production. Their presentation traced the timeline leading up to the implementation of the transfer tax and highlighted key post-implementation challenges, including a sharp drop in permit activity and difficulties securing project financing. The researchers proposed potential reforms, such as exempting the sale of multifamily properties from the ULA tax within 15 years of receiving a certificate of occupancy, and urged both the L.A. City Council and the state legislature to consider legislative solutions. The Chamber will continue to advocate for eliminating barriers to housing.
|
Supreme Court Ruling Paves Way for Major Cuts to U.S. Education Department
On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court, in a 6–3 decision, cleared the way for the Trump administration to move forward with plans to significantly downsize the U.S. Department of Education. The ruling overturned a lower court injunction, allowing Education Secretary Linda McMahon to proceed with the layoff of 1,400 employees beginning in August and the transfer of key departmental functions to other federal agencies. The Chamber is closely monitoring this development and its potential impact on the education and workforce landscape.
|
Government & Fiscal Affairs Policy Council Addresses Dueling Ballot Initiatives
This week, the Government & Fiscal Affairs (GFA) Policy Council convened to discuss key issues likely to shape next year’s election landscape. L.A. Area Chamber Board Member Dana Debel of Delta Air Lines shared insights on the growing effort to place a referendum on the City’s recently approved tourism wage ordinance. Dr. Fernando Guerra of Loyola Marymount University provided context on the process and policy behind several union-led ballot initiatives currently under consideration. The Chamber will continue to keep members informed and engaged on these important developments.
|
Transportation and Goods Movement Policy Council hosts LAWA Deputy Executive Director
The Transportation and Goods Movement (TGM) Policy Council, presented by HNTB, featured a fireside chat with Mark D. Frank, Deputy Executive Director, Sourcing and Economic Impact at LAWA, with moderation by TGM Chair, Steve Finnegan. The discussion included updates on LAWA's capital improvement plan, procurement opportunities, and how LAWA is preparing for upcoming global events. The Chamber will continue to partner with LAWA, in particular with small business opportunities, and looks forward to upcoming economic impact reports.
|
California Small Businesses Invited to 2025 U.S.-China Cleantech Trade Mission
California small businesses are invited to participate in the 2025 U.S.-China Cleantech Trade Mission, taking place November 3–7. Supported by the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), eligible companies may qualify for a $2,000 subsidy toward the $6,200 participation fee. This mission presents a valuable opportunity for cleantech firms to connect with Chinese buyers, partners, and government stakeholders, opening doors to one of the world’s fastest-growing markets. Focus sectors include clean energy, green building, and environmental technologies. Learn more here.
|
Port of Long Beach Breaks Ground on $365M ITS Terminal Expansion
The Port of Long Beach recently broke ground on a major expansion of the International Transportation Service (ITS) terminal. This $365 million project will add 19 acres by filling an unused slip, enabling ITS to accommodate two of the largest cargo ships simultaneously along a continuous 3,400-foot wharf. Scheduled for completion in late 2028, the expansion will enhance America’s supply chain, improve operational efficiency, create union jobs, and reinforce the Port’s commitment to sustainable growth. Learn more here.
|
Chamber Foundation Partners with CalOSBA to Support Underserved Small Businesses
The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, in partnership with the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA), is supporting California’s underserved small businesses through the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI). The Success, Capital Access, and Leadership for Entrepreneurs (SCALE) program provides personalized coaching to help business owners navigate the loan process and secure the right financial resources. SCALE prioritizes women-owned, veteran-owned, and disabled-owned businesses, as well as those located in low-income, rural, and disaster-affected communities throughout the state. For more information, visit here.
|
Intuit Expands Free Accelerator Program for Small Businesses Nationwide
The Intuit IDEAS Accelerator Program is expanding nationwide, offering small business owners a unique, free 12-month opportunity to access expert coaching, AI-powered tools, and a non-dilutive grant. Participants receive support in bookkeeping, tax preparation, marketing, and compliance, along with access to platforms such as QuickBooks, Mailchimp, and TurboTax. Entrepreneurs, including veterans and military spouses, are encouraged to apply by July 21.
|
Empowering Angelenos: Multilingual Resources Available for Navigating ICE Encounters
The Community Investment for Families Department website offers essential Know Your Rights resources to help individuals navigate encounters with ICE. Learn how to safely respond if approached at home, at work, or in public, and access tools to protect yourself, your family, and your community, regardless of immigration status. Access materials here.
|
YMCA Unveils New Site, Expands Role as Community Well-Being Hub
The YMCA of Greater Los Angeles has launched a new website, ushering in its next chapter as the Center for Community Well-Being. For nearly 145 years, the Y has supported Angelenos through programs spanning fitness, youth development, workforce training, and social services. This evolution reflects a deeper focus on tackling regional challenges like social isolation and economic insecurity, advancing a healthier, more equitable Los Angeles for all. Visit the new site to connect with your community.
|
COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
|
Innovation & Technology Policy Council
Tuesday, July 29, 2:00 p.m.
MEMBER-ONLY EVENT
Join us for the first Innovation & Technology (ITC) Council Policy Meeting of the year, where we’ll discuss key legislative updates impacting the business community.
|
Pancakes & Politics
Thursday, July 31, 8:30 a.m.
MEMBER-ONLY EVENT
Join us for the next Pancakes & Politics session with featured speaker Jim McDonnell, Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
|
State of L.A. Business
Thursday, August 7, 8:30 a.m.
Register today for the 2025 State of L.A. Business, where we’ll dive into the future of transportation and energy in Los Angeles. This signature event offers a unique opportunity to engage with influential leaders, policymakers, and innovators who are driving progress across the region. Connect with professionals shaping a more dynamic, sustainable L.A. Interested in sponsorship opportunities? Click here to learn more.
|
Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
|
|
