State Legislature Passes Redistricting Package
The State Legislature reconvened this week for the final month of session. The Senate and Assembly Appropriations committees reviewed more than 500 measures. State legislators passed – and the Governor signed – a three-bill redistricting package, including a proposed state constitutional amendment to set a special election on November 4 and new Congressional maps. The Government & Fiscal Affairs Policy Council will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, August 26, at 9:00 a.m. to discuss this development. As the Legislature moves forward, the Chamber is closely tracking several priority bills. Look for news in next week’s Policy Update.
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CSULA Celebrates Inauguration of President Berenecea Johnson Eanes
California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA) marked a historic milestone this week with the inauguration of Dr. Berenecea Johnson Eanes as the University’s ninth president—and the first woman to hold this role. The ceremony at the Harriet and Charles Luckman Fine Arts Complex launched the new academic year and celebrated outstanding faculty achievements. The Chamber congratulates Dr. Eanes on this momentous occasion, recognizing her leadership and vision. CSULA continues to earn national distinction as a top public university for advancing economic mobility.
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Supervisor Horvath Meets with Business Leaders
The Chamber participated in a convening of business leaders in the San Fernando Valley this week, organized by L.A. County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. The group included many members of the Chamber along with partner business organizations, and we engaged in a productive conversation about many of the most pressing issues in the region, including housing and homelessness.
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FIFA Seeks Local Suppliers for Los Angeles World Cup 2026
FIFA’s Local Impact Supplier Program is seeking qualified local companies in catering, event production, décor, security, staffing, transportation, and more. This initiative aims to ensure that the Los Angeles FIFA World Cup 2026 not only showcases the world’s game but also creates meaningful economic opportunities for the region’s business community. To be considered for upcoming procurement opportunities, submit an Expression of Interest form here. Learn more about the World Cup in L.A. here.
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Education & Workforce Development Council Engages on Statewide Initiatives
The Education & Workforce Development Council welcomed Livia Shmavonian, Deputy Cabinet Secretary and Senior Advisor to Governor Newsom, who reaffirmed the Governor’s commitment to expanding education access. She outlined the upcoming rollout of statewide before- and after-school K-12 programs in the 2025–26 school year, progress toward reaching 500,000 registered apprenticeships, and the value of partnerships with organizations like the Chamber to strengthen workforce readiness. The Council also heard from the Golden State for Kids team, which highlighted the vital role of supporting child care providers to advance.
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Health Care Council Discusses Medi-Cal, Workforce Trends, and Premium Mandates
This week, the Health Care Council held its August meeting to discuss Medi-Cal funding, trends in the health care workforce, and a campaign opposing premium mandates. Presenters included Matthew Insco (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics), Juan Millan (California Economic Development Department), Phinney Anh (LA Care), and Frances Oney (California Businesses for Affordable Health Care).
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Port of Long Beach Sees Strong July but Faces Second-Half Challenges
The Port of Long Beach recorded its busiest July ever, processing a record 944,232 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). This marked the third-busiest month in the Port’s history, driven in part by a temporary pause in tariffs that boosted imports by 7.6%. Looking ahead, forecasts for the second half of 2025 predict a 10% decline in cargo due to ongoing trade policy uncertainty, potentially resulting in a flat year for overall volume. The Port attributes its success to the hard work of its dockworkers and partners. Learn more here.
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Chamber Supports Entrepreneurs with Low-Interest Loans and Guidance
Through the Success, Capital Access & Leadership for Entrepreneurs (SCALE) program, small businesses can access affordable capital via low-interest loans and credit enhancements designed to overcome traditional financing barriers. The Chamber offers guidance to help businesses prepare a complete, professional loan package. Securing this funding can help businesses meet immediate needs, strengthen credit history, increase sales, and build long-term resilience for future growth. For more information on the program, visit here.
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Freight Forwarding Fundamentals Workshop – Hybrid, August 28
Don’t miss the Freight Forwarding Fundamentals Workshop on Thursday, August 28, offered both in-person at the L.A. Area Chamber and virtually via Zoom. This full-day, hybrid program is designed for beginners and experienced professionals alike, providing a deep dive into key logistics concepts, expert industry insights, and strategies for navigating today’s dynamic global market. Register here.
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Apply Now: Grants for Nonprofits Strengthening Hollywood’s Community
The Hollywood Community Foundation’s Grant Program supports local 501(c)(3) nonprofits working to make Hollywood cleaner, brighter, and safer. Applications are open through October 2025. Apply today to receive funding that strengthens our community’s quality of life and economic vitality.
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Palisades YMCA Launches $25 Million Rebuilding Campaign
The YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles has launched a $25 million capital campaign to rebuild the Palisades YMCA as the Lowe Family YMCA, following devastating wildfires. The launch event at Simon Meadow featured LA County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath, who pledged $10 million to the project. The new dual-campus Lowe Family YMCA will serve as an expanded Center for Community Well-Being, honoring its history while creating a brighter future for the community. Congratulations to Victor Dominguez, President & CEO, and Chamber Board member
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Education & Workforce Development Policy Council
Tuesday, August 26, 9:00 a.m.
MEMBER-ONLY EVENT
Join the Government and Fiscal Affairs (GFA) Policy Council to discuss whether the Chamber should take a position on redistricting in California. We strongly encourage all interested members to join us for this important conversation.
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Tourism, Entertainment, & Sports Policy Council
Wednesday, August 27, 10:00 a.m.
MEMBER-ONLY EVENT
Join the upcoming Tourism, Entertainment & Sports (TES) Policy Council meeting for a special session on legislative updates impacting the business community.
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AT CAPACITY - Pancakes & Politics
Thursday, August 28
Thank you to everyone who registered for the next session with LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho. This event has reached capacity. We look forward to hosting you at the City Club LA next Thursday.
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Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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