Transportation Secretary Omishakin Delivers Keynote at State of L.A. Business
California State Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin, delivered the keynote at the L.A. Area Chamber's 2024 State of L.A. Business, highlighting the region and state’s top transportation infrastructure priorities. He also emphasized the vital role of the private sector in helping California achieve these key goals. As Secretary of the California State Transportation Agency (CALSTA), he has oversight of 8 State Departments, Boards and Commissions with a budget that exceeds $30 billion annually.
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Chamber Explores the Future of Transportation & Energy at State of L.A. Business
The Chamber hosted a successful State of L.A. Business this week at California State University, Dominguez Hills, with KABC Radio broadcaster Frank Mottek, as its host. The event convened leading experts in transportation and energy to discuss the significant infrastructure opportunities reshaping the state. The Chamber also honored the LA84 Foundation with a Chamber Legacy Champion Award. Panel discussions included: Public & Private Partnerships Shaping Transportation with Lillian Yan of HNTB, Sharon Gookin of LA Metro, Darren Kettle of Metrolink, and George Kivork of Joby Aviation; and Powering Progress: Energy for L.A.’s Future with Kenny Seeton of CSU Dominguez Hills, Janisse Quiñones of LADWP, Hugo Mejia of Cordoba Corporation, and Shinjini Menon with Southern California Edison.
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Exposition Park Secures $352M Ahead of LA28 Olympics
Exposition Park has secured $352 million in the California state budget for a critical infrastructure project ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The allocation will fund the construction of a nearly six-acre park and an underground parking structure, key components of Exposition Park’s Master Plan. These developments will play a vital role in the park's transformation, ensuring it is ready to host events and welcome global visitors, while contributing to the lasting legacy of the games. Learn more here.
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Mayor Bass Signs Executive Directive, Renews Support for L.A.'s Entertainment Industry
Mayor Karen Bass issued an executive directive that streamlines city department processes for local film and television production and enhances customer service. This initiative underscores the city’s commitment to strengthening L.A.’s entertainment industry. The Chamber released a statement commending Mayor Bass' unwavering support of the film and television sector, a cornerstone of Los Angeles’ identity. Read the full statement here.
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State Legislature Returns from Summer Break
The California Legislature reconvened this week for the final stretch of the session, leading up to the August 31 adjournment deadline. Fiscal committees will hold suspense file hearings on August 15, after which the Governor will have until September 30 to sign or veto bills. The Chamber is closely tracking and advocating for nearly 40 high-priority bills this session, with a particular focus on addressing retail theft and boosting housing production. Additionally, the Chamber is monitoring the potential reintroduction of SB 1116, which involves unemployment insurance for striking workers.
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Business Leaders Support Governor Newsom’s Encampments Executive Order
L.A. Area Chamber President & CEO Maria S. Salinas, together with a broad coalition of business leaders and policymakers, has voiced strong support for Governor Gavin Newsom's executive order aimed at addressing homeless encampments with compassion. The executive order came after the U.S. Supreme Court's Grants Pass ruling. Read the full statement in the Governor’s Office press release.
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Port of Long Beach to Host Community Grants Workshop
The Port of Long Beach's award-winning Community Grants Program is a $46 million initiative dedicated to funding projects that support those most affected by port-related environmental impacts. The Port’s Community Grants team will host a workshop on Tuesday, Aug. 20, to help applicants prepare successful proposals. Register for the webinar here.
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Small Business Council
Join us for the next Small Business Council on August 21, featuring Adriana Ring from Caltrans. This session will provide information about the support service programs designed to assist minority, disadvantaged, and women-owned businesses in competing for procurement projects. Additionally, the meeting will cover Workforce Development and on-the-job training opportunities aimed at helping underserved communities develop skills in various highway construction trades. Register today.
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TD Ready Challenge
The TD Ready Challenge is now accepting applications from non-profit organizations committed to helping underserved small business owners. This grant supports groundbreaking strategies that remove barriers for entrepreneurs, fostering an inclusive and vibrant business ecosystem. Don't miss this opportunity to amplify your efforts and drive meaningful change. Apply now.
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NAWBO - L.A.'s Business Summit
NAWBO L.A.'s Business Summit: Educating Champions, is designed for forward-thinking business owners eager to drive growth and innovation. With a focus on educating and empowering local entrepreneurs, the summit will offer valuable workshops, networking opportunities, and insight from industry leaders. Tickets are available here.
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LABC’s 18th Annual Sustainability Summit
Join the Los Angeles Business Council for the 18th Annual Sustainability Summit on Friday, September 6. This event brings together top business, government, and nonprofit leaders in one of the world’s most environmentally progressive cities. Learn more here.
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Chamber Honors LA84 With Legacy Champion Award
As L.A. prepares for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games the Chamber marked the 40th anniversary of the LA84 Olympics by honoring the LA84 Foundation with the Chamber Legacy Champion Award and hosting a fireside chat with its President & CEO Renata Simril at the State of L.A. Business.
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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Government & Fiscal Affairs Council
Tuesday, August 13, 10:00 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join the Government & Fiscal Affairs (GFA) Policy Council to hear presentations on ballot measures that have qualified for the November election.
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Land Use, Construction & Housing Council
Wednesday, August 14, 9:00 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join the Land Use, Construction, and Housing Policy Council for a briefing from YIMBY Action on their housing advocacy.
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Health Care Council
Wednesday, August 21, 10:00 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT
Join the Health Care Council for a special session to learn about and engage on the state ballot measure Prop 35, which if passed would raise more money for Medi-Cal and block lawmakers from spending it on general government services. The Chamber will convene presenters on the measure.
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Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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