News
May Proclaimed Small Business Month
On Thursday, May 6, 2021, Governor Gavin Newsom issued a Proclamation declaring May 2021 as Small Business Month! CalOSBA Director Tara Lynn Gray says, “I am pleased with today’s proclamation by Governor Newsom. Simply put, he gets it. Small businesses are critical to the growth of our economy and he has prioritized their recovery by providing significant aid during the pandemic with cash grants, following that up with tax relief to the tune of $6.2 billion, and license renewal fee waivers for up to two
CSU Fullerton Partners with Providence St. Jude Medical Center to Provide Vaccination Clinics
A partnership has been developed with Providence St. Jude Medical Center to provide vaccinations to employees, students, and their family members with choices for on-campus clinics or at St. Jude locations. Cal State Fullerton encourages all community members to be vaccinated. For more information, visit http://coronavirus.fullerton.edu/vaccine-and-testing/. "Our goal, as a campus, has been to try to ensure our campus...and by extension, our community...is protected from COVID-19," said Ellen Treanor,
New COVID-19 Emergency Regulation Amendments Coming from Cal/OSHA
In a development that every employer in California should be watching closely, Cal/OSHA released the new proposed text (“amendments”) for California’s COVID-19 emergency temporary standard (“ETS”) onFriday, May 7th as part of the agenda for the May 20th Standards Board Meeting. The text of the amendments (available here: https://www.dir.ca.gov/OSHSB/documents/COVID-19-Prevention-Emergency-txtcourtesy-Readoption.pdf) merit a close review with counsel because there is virtually no chance that the Standards
Orange County’s Local Health Clinics Gear Up For Increased Vaccinations When Super Sites Close
By Spencer Custodio for Voice of OC Neighborhood health clinics, with help from community organizations, will soon vaccinate even more people throughout Orange County as officials are slated to shut down their vaccine super sites by early next month. Some community clinic leaders are welcoming the move. “The move to focus on local players such as community clinics is essential when it comes to vaccines. Community clinics, such as ours, and other local health care providers have direct access to
Two-Thirds of Californians to Receive $600 Stimulus Checks Under Gov. Newsom’s New Proposal
Gov. Gavin Newsom today unveiled plans to deliver a second round of $600 stimulus checks — this time for middle-class residents in addition to low-income families — in an effort to speed up California’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The governor’s proposal to award nearly 80% of Californians with stimulus checks is part of a $100-billion “California Comeback Plan,” which stems from an unprecedented $75.7 billion surplus in the state’s general fund projected for the upcoming fiscal year and an
World Trade Month Spotlights Importance of Global Trade to State, U.S. Economies
By Susanne T. Stirling After a year of global uncertainty, international trade continues to be in the spotlight and its importance is once again being highlighted this month as we celebrate World Trade Month. The economic advances that international commerce makes possible are clear, despite the regular attacks, and World Trade Month activities each May appropriately provide many opportunities to acknowledge the importance of global trade to the economies of California and the United States.COVID
California Agency Approves Warehouse Rule for Air Quality
Southern California air quality regulators on Friday approved a rule that would curb diesel emissions from thousands of trucks that ferry goods from the growing number of massive warehouses in the region run by Amazon and other companies. Areas around the facilities have weathered increased pollution affecting their largely minority communities. The so-called warehouse rule was approved 9-4 by the South Coast Air Quality Management District board. It institutes a points-based system requiring about
What to Do When an Employee Complains About ‘Discrimination’
Matthew J. Roberts, Esq. An employee complained to me that a coworker frequently yells at the employee for parking in the wrong spot and says that the coworker is “discriminating” against him by yelling at him. What, if anything, do I need to do to address this complaint? Employee workplace complaints are not a new phenomenon and very frequently employees use terms like “discrimination,” “retaliation,” “harassment,” or “hostile work environment” when making the complaint. But at what point is an
Tips for Fostering Work-Life Balance
In this episode ofThe Workplace podcast, CalChamber Executive Vice President and General Counsel Erika Frank and employment law expert Jennifer Shaw discuss ways employers can help employees manage work-life balance. Mother’s Day is this weekend and in honor of that day, Frank brings up the hard work that working moms and parents have put in during the COVID-19 pandemic, having to balance not only their work duties, but also having to help their children navigate remote learning. Statistics show that
Retroactive COVID Paid Sick Leave Due When Employee Requests It
By David Leporiere I have a business with approximately 40 employees, and I just read something that said California passed a law making COVID sick leave retroactive to January 1 of this year. Is that true? Do I need to go through all my employees’ absence records and pay out this sick leave to employees who were absent during the first quarter of this year? The answer to your first question is yes. In March of this year, the California Legislature passed SB 95, which provides for supplemental paid
CalChamber Opposition Stops 5 Job Killer Bills
Strong opposition from the California Chamber of Commerce helped to stop five job killer bills from advancing in the state Legislature. The bills failed a key deadline to move from policy committee to fiscal committee on April 30. In addition, the CalChamber has removed the job killer tag on five bills due to amendments.Read More For a complete list of this year’s job killers, visit www.calchamber.com/jobkillers.
SBA Announces PPP Funds Exhausted
On Tuesday, May 4th, the Small Business Administration (“SBA”) informed trade associations, that PPP funding has been exhausted. The Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) application portal will stop accepting applications for loans from most lenders. Approximately $6 billion in funding has been reserved for previously submitted loan applications subject to hold codes that have yet to be resolved. Additionally, approximately $8 billion remain available through a set-aside for PPP loans made by designated
US backs Waiving Intellectual Property Rules on Vaccines
By JAMEY KEATEN and ZEKE MILLER The Biden administration on Wednesday joined calls for more sharing of the technology behind COVID-19 vaccines to help speed the end of the pandemic, a shift that puts the U.S. alongside many in the developing world who want rich countries to do more to get doses to the needy. U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced the government’s position, amid World Trade Organization talks about a possible temporary waiver of its protections that would allow more
CalChamber Supports Infrastructure Investments for Zero and Low Emission Vehicles
Implores Legislature to Ensure Technology Neutrality and Create a Fuel-Agnostic Transportation Funding Plan By Leah SilverthornClimate Change, General, Transportation Yesterday, the California Chamber of Commerce issued its recommendation that the California Legislature re-authorize the Clean Transportation Program and ensure a level playing field for all zero emission technologies in order to advance our climate goals. If our state is to succeed in rolling out zero emission vehicles without greatly
Vaccination Appointments Encouraged, Walk-Ups Welcome Too
Getting vaccinated is now easier than ever. Orange County is trying to do everything it can to address challenges with getting your COVID-19 vaccine and is now allowing walk-ups to its County-operated Super Point-of-Dispending (POD) vaccination sites. Those with scheduled appointments never have to worry about the availability of their dose, but now walk-ins will be welcome each Monday through Saturday. Walk-ins may experience longer wait times and availability may vary based on site demand. For a list of
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Arterial Street Improvement Progress In Fullerton
The City of Fullerton’s Public Works Department is making progress on the rehabilitation of several arterial (major) streets. Completing this week: Commonwealth Avenue between Balcom Avenue and Raymond AvenueRaymond Avenue between Commonwealth Avenue and Chapman Avenue In Progress: Orangethorpe Avenue between Woods Avenue and Highland Avenue Starting Shortly: Brookhurst Road between Orangethorpe Avenue and Commonwealth Avenue Programmed for next Fiscal Year (July 1, 2201 - June 30,
Court Upholds California Governor's Use of Emergency Powers
California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s use of emergency powers to make far-reaching policies during the pandemic was upheld Wednesday by state appellate judges who rejected a lower court finding that the Democrat had done too much unilaterally. Three judges from the 3rd District Court of Appeal in Sacramento ruled unanimously that the prior judge “erred in interpreting the Emergency Services Act to prohibit the Governor from issuing quasi-legislative orders in an emergency.” “We conclude the issuance of such
AB 5 Injunction Overturned
By James W. Ward Once upon a (pre-pandemic) time, one of employers’ most pressing concerns was the independent contractor law (also known as AB 5) that took effect in 2020, codifying the California Supreme Court’s strict “ABC” test for classifying workers as either employees or independent contractors. Though the COVID-19 pandemic largely overshadowed AB 5 (and everything else), worker classification issues remain important and continue to develop. Last year, AB 2257, for example, made a number of
‘Right to Recall’ Mandate Circumvents Policy Process
By Ashley Hoffman - May 4, 2021 Now in effect is a new law establishing a “right to recall” requirement for certain hotels, private clubs, event centers, airport hospitality operations, and building services. The law applies to all employees laid off due to COVID-19. Adopted through the budget process rather than legislative policy committee hearings, SB 93 (Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review) went into effect immediately upon being signed by Governor Gavin Newsom on April 16. If the subject sounds
Discover Fullerton on Foot: Destination Downtown
Live Local – Fullerton on Foot highlights small businesses through a series of video guided walking tours. These tours encourage residents to get active while exploring neighborhood businesses! A list of upcoming walks with program dates is provided below. Click here to view the YouTube playlist featuring these businesses Click here to download the mapClick Here to Learn More
Rep. Kim Supporting Small Businesses Through COVID-19 and Beyond
Originally published in Orange County Register, April 24, 2021 Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities across California’s 39th District. Unfortunately, our state’s small business owners were hit the hardest in the nation during the COVID-19 pandemic with 40,000 small businesses closing their doors and nearly half of those closures are permanent. As a small business owner, I understand the hardships and challenges that come with starting a small business. While we often see startling
Gavin Newsom signs tax break on pandemic loans for many California businesses
By Sophia Bollag for The Sacramento Bee Many California businesses won’t have to pay state taxes on their federal pandemic loans under a bill Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law Thursday. The measure, Assembly Bill 80, aims to help businesses that received loans through the Paycheck Protection Program, which the federal government established to help businesses survive the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown. Newsom’s office described the law as “providing a $6.2 billion tax cut” for small businesses hurt by the
California’s Tax Revenue Is $16.7 Billion Above Projections
State revenue for the first nine months of the current fiscal year is $16.7 billion ahead of the projections in Governor Gavin Newsom’s January budget proposal, the Department of Finance announced April 23. In March alone, the state collected $2.3 billion more than the $8.9 billion the governor had predicted for the month. The governor’s budget, which will be updated in mid-May, anticipated revenue of $120.5 billion in the first nine months of 2020-21. “A significant amount of receipts above the January
Fullerton City Council Appoints Steve Danley as Acting City Manager
Steve Danley was appointed by the Fullerton City Council on Tuesday, April 27th as Acting City Manager. For over 30 years, Mr. Danley worked for the County of Orange in multiple executive and line positions, including Chief Human Resources Officer, Performance Audit Director, Chief Organizational Assessment/Development, and Landfill Site Manager, to name just a few. He holds a Master’s Degree in Business and Public Administration and a Bachelor’s in Political Science from UCI. He also has an AA from
CalChamber Cites Key Policy Elements for Recycling in a Circular Economy
Working to find a comprehensive solution to recycling and packaging concerns is a goal shared by the California Chamber of Commerce and its members. That was the message conveyed this week by CalChamber Senior Policy Advocate Adam Regele in testimony to the Senate Environmental Quality Committee. Regele made his comments at the April 26 committee hearing on SB 54 (Allen; D-Santa Monica), explaining the CalChamber’s oppose unless amended position. Shared Goals The CalChamber agrees with Senator Ben
City of La Palma Receives Congressional Funding Request for Citywide Street Medians Project
Last week, 38th District Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez submitted a $2 million funding request to the United States House Committee on Appropriations for the City of La Palma’s Arterial Street Medians Rehabilitation Project for Fiscal Year 2022. The project would reconstruct 48 median islands and add three new median islands throughout the City. The median islands would include a variety of drought-tolerant plants and trees with a drip irrigation system to significantly reduce water usage and water
County of Orange Partners with OC Driven for Success to Provide Job Assistance to Veterans
In partnership with the Orange County Workforce Development Board (OCDB), Orange County Veterans Service Office, and Orange County Automobile Dealers Association, the County of Orange is collaborating with OC Driven for Success to help provide support to military veterans and transitioning service members. Assistance will include paid training, mentoring, and job placement. "Our nation owes so much to every veteran who has served and risked their lives defending our democracy and values,” said Chairman
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City Manager Domer Departs Fullerton
The City Council and City Manager have agreed to a mutually acceptable separation. The City Council voted 3-2 on April 20, 2021 with Mayor Bruce Whitaker, Mayor Pro Tem Nick Dunlap, and Councilmember Fred Jung in support, to terminate the employment agreement for City Manager Ken Domer effective April 27, 2021 at 5 PM. Mr. Domer was appointed unanimously on June 24, 2017 and began his service to the City of Fullerton on July 27, 2017. Mr. Domer was instrumental in helping the City Council work through
Considerations for Workplace Reopenings
In this episode of The Workplace podcast, CalChamber Executive Vice President and General Counsel Erika Frank and employment law expert Jennifer Shaw discuss workplace reopenings and what employers should consider when deciding whether to end their remote work programs. This podcast was recorded on April 16, 2021. Listeners should be aware that given the unpredictability of the COVID-19 pandemic, information shared on this podcast episode may change at any time. With Governor Gavin Newsom announcing
Employers Must Still Follow Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Standards Despite Vaccinations
By Matthew J. Roberts, Esq. April 27, 2021 As California marches towards its June 15 reopening date, nearly half of its population has received a COVID-19 vaccination at this point. Many employers see the increased vaccine eligibility and supply as providing the opportunity to return employees to the workplace in some capacity. Complicating the issue is continually revised government guidelines from agencies such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the California Department
Tips for Easing Employees Back to the Office
Mike McCluskey April 28, 2021 182 As more and more people are getting vaccinated against COVID-19, a return to a degree normalcy is finally within sight. Many employers are likely itching to get their employees back into the office, and employees may be eager to see their virtual coworkers and bosses in real life. Returning employees to the work place after they’ve worked from home for over a year can be difficult, but employers have a few tricks to help ease the transition. Prior to 2020, fewer than
CDC Says Many Americans Can Now Go Outside Without a Mask
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention eased its guidelines Tuesday on the wearing of masks outdoors, saying fully vaccinated Americans don’t need to cover their faces anymore unless they are in a big crowd of strangers. And those who are unvaccinated can go outside without masks in some situations, too. The new guidance represents another carefully calibrated step on the road back to normal from the coronavirus outbreak that has killed over 570,000 people in U.S. For most of the past year, the
SBA Administrator Guzman Announces Application Opening for $28.6 Billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund
SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman today announced the U.S. Small Business Administration will begin registrations on Friday, April 30, 2021, at 9 a.m. EDT and open applications on Monday, May 3, 2021, at noon EDT for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. The online application will remain open to any eligible establishment until all funds are exhausted. “Restaurants are the core of our neighborhoods and propel economic activity on main streets across the nation. They are among the businesses
Fullerton Launches New Adopt-a-Trail and Park Program
The City of Fullerton Parks and Recreation Department has established an Adopt-a-Park and Trail program which will provide an opportunity for community groups, civic organizations, and private businesses to contribute to the effort of maintaining beautiful and clean parks and trails in the City of Fullerton. The City of Fullerton has approximately 28 miles of recreational trails and 53 parks spread throughout the City. Adopt-a-Park and Trail volunteers will help with litter and weed abatement on a
California to Lose a Congressional Seat, According to New Census Data
By Melanie Mason, Seema Mehta For Los Angeles Times California will lose one seat in Congress for the first time in state history, while Texas and Florida are among the states that will see its representation increase, according to population data released by the U.S. Census Bureau on Monday that give the first glimpse of the coming decade’s congressional landscape. The new apportionment figures — which uses the decennial head count to allocate representation in the U.S. House of Representatives across
SBA Launches Supplemental Targeted Advance for Small Businesses Hardest Hit by COVID-19
The U.S. Small Business Administration launched a new round of Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) assistance – called Supplemental Targeted Advances – on April 22, 2021 that will provide $5 billion in additional assistance to 1 million small businesses and nonprofit organizations that have been most severely affected by the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Supplemental Targeted Advance program is the latest SBA relief program to launch as part of the American Rescue Plan Act on March 11,
Businesses Scramble for Help as Job Openings Go Unfilled
It looks like something to celebrate: small businesses posting “Help Wanted” signs as the economy edges toward normalcy. Instead, businesses are having trouble filling the jobs, which in turn hurts their ability to keep up with demand for their products or services. Owners say that some would-be workers are worried about catching COVID-19 or prefer to live off unemployment benefits that are significantly higher amid the pandemic. Child care is another issue — parents aren’t able to work when they need to
Wage Theft Already Is a Crime in California
Ashley HoffmanLabor and Employment California employers must navigate the nation’s toughest labor and employment laws. Long before the introduction of AB 1003 (Gonzalez), California already deemed wage theft a crime. It is absurd to think a progressive state like California would not have already addressed this issue. In 2012, Labor Commissioner Julie Su created the Criminal Investigation Unit within the agency to specifically focus and prosecute employers who steal wages from employees. In 2014,
SVOG Application Portal Reopens on April 24 at 12:30 p.m. EDT
The U.S. Small Business Administration will reopen the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant application portal on Saturday, April 24, 2021 at 12:30 p.m. EDT. In preparation for the opening, potential applicants should register on the portal in advance. Applicants will also need a smartphone and a multi-factor authenticator app to register and apply. The SBA has also added the following updated resources. Applicant user guide and FAQ: For help with the application process, refer to the applicant user guide and
Premium Pay Penalty Due When Employee Given Late Meal Break
Yesterday our store was very busy, so I could not let my employee leave for a meal break until very late in the day. Do I owe the employee a one-hour meal period penalty because their lunch break was late, or is it owed only if they didn’t get a meal break at all? California’s meal period penalty is owed both when an employer fails to provide an employee with a meal break at all, as well as when the meal break is provided later than is legally required. The penalty is known as premium pay.Meal Break
Business Community PSA Encourages Vaccinations
California’s business community has released a new public service announcement (PSA), called “Do It For,” encouraging Californians to get vaccinated when it’s their turn. The PSA is airing statewide on TV, radio and social media, reaching millions of California residents in both English and Spanish. “The key to opening up California’s economy safely and responsibly is to get every Californian vaccinated,” said Allan Zaremberg, CalChamber president and CEO.
Supervisor Doug Chaffee to Host 4th District Virtual Job Fair to Connect Our Business Community to J
Orange County Vice Chairman Doug Chaffee, in partnership with Orange County Workforce Development Board, Orange Community Services, American’s Job Center of California, 4th District Cities and Chambers of Commerce, will host a Virtual Job Fair on Wednesday, May 5, 2021, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. The virtual platform will provide jobseekers greater opportunity to attain successful employment by having access to multiple, high-profile employers, representing a
SBA Announces Official Restaurant Revitalization Fund Application and Guidelines
SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman today announced key details on application requirements, eligibility, and a program guide for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RFF). The restaurant industry has been among the hardest-hit sectors during the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. To help bring jobs back and revive the industry, the American Rescue Plan, signed into law by President Joe Biden, established the $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Fund at the U.S. Small Business
Three Bills Added to CalChamber Job Killer List
The California Chamber of Commerce added three bills to its annual list of job killer legislation yesterday. The additions bring the 2021 Job Killer list to a total of 23 legislative bills that would place California employers and the state’s economy in harm’s way should they become law. Two of the bills added yesterday would increase labor costs on employers and a third would establish a new private right of action. So far this year, the CalChamber has identified 25 job killer bills. One was amended
White House Offers New Tax Credit to Help Spur Vaccinations
President Joe Biden on Wednesday announced new employer tax credits and other steps to encourage people reluctant to be inoculated to get the COVID-19 vaccine as his administration tries to overcome diminishing demand for the shots. The moves came as Biden celebrated reaching his latest goal of administering 200 million coronavirus doses in his first 100 days in office. With more than 50% of adults at least partially vaccinated and roughly 28 million vaccine doses being delivered each week, demand has
Alcohol Awareness in the Workplace
By Katie Culliton for CalChamber Each year, an estimated 500 million workdays are lost to alcohol-related issues, costing $240 billion annually — and 72 percent of that is due to lost wages from reduced work productivity. Since April is Alcohol Awareness Month, which was created to increase outreach and understanding of the causes, effects and treatment of alcoholism, there’s no better time to promote workplace programs that may help employees with alcohol-related problems and ensure your company has an
2021 COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave FAQs
(Labor Code Section 248.2) Coverage 1. Which employers are covered by the new 2021 COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave law? All employers, public or private, with more than 25 employees are covered, including those with collective bargaining agreements. 2. Which employees are covered by this new law? Covered employees are those who cannot work or telework due to the reasons listed below in FAQ 4. Under the 2021 COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave law, covered employees are entitled to paid sick
SBA Announces First-of-Its-Kind Technology Initiative for Restaurant Revitalization Fund
Point-of-sale service providers will support eligible restaurant owners with innovative technology solutions The U.S. Small Business Administration announced today the first round of technology partners participating in a new initiative for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) - a program that will allow eligible restaurants and other food establishments to access the RRF application or data they need to fill out the application through their trusted point-of-sale (POS) service providers. SBA is
California’s massive UC and Cal State Systems Plan to Require COVID-19 Vaccinations This Fall
By NINA AGRAWAL, TERESA WATANABE, COLLEEN SHALBY The University of California and California State University announced Thursday that they intend to require COVID-19 vaccinations for all students, faculty and staff on campus properties this fall once the Food and Drug Administration gives formal approval to the vaccines and supplies are sufficiently available. The directive is the largest of its kind in U.S. higher education, affecting more than 1 million members of the two public university systems.
USCIS Requests Public Input On Barriers That Prevent Access To Immigration Services And Benefits
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is seeking comments from the public on how U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can reduce administrative and other barriers and burdens within its regulations and policies, including those that prevent foreign citizens from easily obtaining access to immigration services and benefits. This effort will help DHS identify process improvements for USCIS, with benefits for state, local, and tribal governments, for businesses (including small businesses and
City of Buena Park's Photography Show
Submissions are being accepted through May 25 and may be dropped off at the Buena Park Community Center, 6688 Beach Blvd. or emailed to finearts@buenapark.com by May 11, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. Photographs will be on display in the Council Chamber from June 1 to August 3, 2021. Photographs may also be featured on the City's website, social media, and promotional materials! All physical photographs must be mounted on mat board or poster board. Work that is on canvas or framed must have wiring on the back and be
Newsom Launches Effort to Deal with Drought; Emergencies Declared in Two Counties
By Bettina Boxall Staff Writer, LA Timesv. Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday declared a drought emergency in two Northern California counties as he stood on the dry shoreline of Lake Mendocino. The declaration gives state regulators expanded powers to curtail diversions in the parched Russian River watershed and relax river flow standards that would require more releases from the region’s shrinking reservoirs. Newsom has been under pressure from some quarters to declare a statewide drought emergency. But
Adopted Wildfire Smoke Regulation Clarifies Employer Obligations
HRWatchdog April 19, 2021 With a new fire season approaching, has the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) developed additional regulations to address the hazards and mitigation of employee exposure to wildfire smoke? The emergency wildfire smoke regulations promulgated by Cal/OSHA and adopted by the Standards Board (OSHSB) on July 18, 2019, have been revised, adopted and approved by the Office of Administrative Law (OAL) as new Section 5141.1 of Title 8, the California
Vaccination Is Key to Reopen Economy
In this episode of The Workplace podcast, CalChamber President and CEO Allan Zaremberg and Dee Dee Myers, senior adviser to Governor Gavin Newsom and director of the Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), discuss the COVID-19 vaccine and why it is critical to reopening the California economy. Reopening Set for June 15 Earlier this month, Governor Newsom announced that California will be fully reopening its economy on June 15. Why, Zaremberg asks Myers, did the Governor choose June 15? Two
US West Prepares for Possible 1st Water Shortage Declaration
CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) — The man-made lakes that store water supplying millions of people in the U.S. West and Mexico are projected to shrink to historic lows in the coming months, dropping to levels that could trigger the federal government’s first-ever official shortage declaration and prompt cuts in Arizona and Nevada. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation released 24-month projections this week forecasting that less Colorado River water will cascade down from the Rocky Mountains through Lake Powell and Lake
Global Groups Express Cautious Optimism for Post-Pandemic Worldwide Recovery
Economic reports recently released by two key global organizations present cautiously optimistic signs for worldwide recovery.World Trade Organization The World Trade Organization (WTO) reported on March 31 that prospects for a quick recovery in world trade have improved as merchandise trade expanded more rapidly than expected in the second half of last year. According to new estimates from the WTO, the volume of world merchandise trade is expected to increase by 8.0% in 2021 after having fallen 5.3% in
California Lawmakers Revive Virus Tax Break for Business
By ADAM BEAM for Associated Press California lawmakers on Monday revived a multibillion-dollar tax break for some businesses after the Biden administration assured them the proposal would not jeopardize the state’s own federal coronavirus aid. The federal government has given California companies about $97 billion in loans during the pandemic, the majority of which business owners won’t have to pay back. Congress also gave $26 billion to California’s state government as part of the most recent
Restaurant Revitalization Fund
The new Restaurant Revitalization Program, through the Small Business Administration, is a new $30 billion grant program exclusively for restaurants, caterers, food trucks, food carts, bars, taprooms, and tasting rooms. Even if you have received prior federal, state, or local grants or loans such as the EIDL and PPP, you still qualify for this new grant program. Applicants could qualify for up to $5 million per location with a maximum of $10 million per business entity, including affiliates. If your
Statewide Business Community Launches PSA to Encourage Vaccinations
“Do It For” PSA launches as state expands vaccine eligibility to all residents 16 and older California’s business community has released a new public service announcement (PSA), called “Do It For,” which will air statewide on TV, radio and social media, reaching millions of California residents in both English and Spanish, encouraging them to get vaccinated when it’s their turn. “The key to opening up California’s economy safely and responsibly is to get every Californian vaccinated,” said Allan
Capitol Summit, Host Breakfast Go Virtual
This year’s CalChamber Capitol Summit and the 95th Annual Sacramento Host Breakfast will be held virtually on the Zoom platform. The Capitol Summit is scheduled for May 12, 10 a.m.–11:30 a.m. The Host Breakfast is set for May 13, 8 a.m.–9 a.m.Capitol Summit The Capitol Summit agenda will include legislative and election updates with CalChamber President and CEO Allan Zaremberg and special guest speaker Dan Walters, longtime journalist and political columnist with CalMatters. Walters has been a
House Passes Bipartisan Bill Rep. Kim Helped Introduce to Strengthen SBA 504 Loan Program
Today, the House passed the bipartisan 504 Credit Risk Management Improvement Act of 2021 (H.R. 1482) to strengthen the Small Business Administration (SBA) 504 loan program. Rep. Young Kim (CA-39) joined Reps. Dan Bishop (NC-09), Angie Craig (MN-02) and Sharice Davids (KS-03) to introduce this bipartisan bill to give the SBA new tools to strengthen the oversight requirements of the 504 loan program and ensure assistance goes to small manufacturers who need it most. “As a small business owner, I am
State Controller Resource Information Page
As the state’s fiscal officer, State Controller Betty T. Yee understands many people are facing financial difficulties during these uncertain times, and helping Californians through this crisis remains one of her top priorities. As such, Controller Yee has compiled resources to help individuals, families, and businesses more readily access available state and federal financial assistance programs. On the Controller’s website, you will find information ranging from direct financial relief, to housing aid, to
Safe, Welcome Reopening Plan for California
I’m sure many readers know someone who postponed a wedding or reunion in 2020 due to the inability to gather or travel under COVID-19 restrictions. Thankfully, last week came the good news that we can, once again, begin making plans. California is on the right trajectory. If vaccination rates stay up and hospitalization rates stay low, Governor Gavin Newsom promises that, beginning June 15, Californians can once again gather together or travel to California’s world class tourist
Fullerton's Orangethorpe School Receives Civic Learning Award
Orangethorpe School was awarded a Civic Learning Award of Merit by a panel of judges and educators selected by the Chief Justice’s Power of Democracy Steering Committee. The Civic Learning Award is the state’s top honor for schools recognized for civics education. The scoring was competitive and some programs were separated by just one point. Orangethorpe School is one of only 32 California Schools receiving this special award. California’s Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye, head of the state’s
Governor Says All Schools Must Reopen
California Gov. Gavin Newsom is urging all schools in the state to reopen, saying there are no health barriers to getting children back into classrooms and ending distance learning. Speaking Wednesday, he said: “Money is not an object now. It’s an excuse.” His wishes remain an expectation rather than a mandate because California’s decentralized education system lets the 1,200 school districts govern themselves. Some of the largest school districts are reopening, including Los Angeles and San
Labor Commissioner Issues COVID-19 Testing and Vaccination Guidance
20 million Californians have already been vaccinated, with all individuals age 16 and up eligible for vaccination effective April 15th. The Department of Fair Employment and Housing recently released updated COVID-19 guidance, which included guidance on employer vaccination programs. The California Labor Commissioner followed suit and released guidance regarding COVID-19 Testing and Vaccination pertaining to California regulations governed by the Labor Commissioner. According to the Labor Commissioner,
With Layoffs Down and Spending Up, US Rebound Gains Momentum
A much-awaited economic boom coming off the pandemic recession appeared to edge closer to reality Thursday with fresh data showing the pace of layoffs dwindling, consumers spending freely and manufacturing rebounding. The latest barometers point to a U.S. economy that’s steadily regaining its health as vaccinations accelerate, business curbs are lifted in many states and more people are willing to travel, shop, eat out and otherwise resume their spending habits. Though many Americans who have lost jobs
Higher Ed Integral to Business Needs
In this episode of The Workplace podcast, CalChamber President and CEO Allan Zaremberg and Lande Ajose, senior policy advisor for higher education to Governor Gavin Newsom, discuss the challenges the state faces in its goal to ensure that higher education remains accessible to all Californians. California has some of the best regional economies in the world and it is thanks to our higher education institutions, which include prestigious universities like the University of Southern California, UCLA,
Job Killer Bill DOA; Proposed Ban on In-State Oil and Gas Production Fails First Senate Committee Hearing
By Adam Regele SB 467 (Wiener; D-San Francisco), a California Chamber of Commerce-identified job killer bill that proposed to ban in-state oil and gas production, failed in its first committee hearing yesterday. “Banning oil production does not reduce demand for energy essential to California’s economy,” said CalChamber President and CEO Allan Zaremberg. “This bill would have required California to import oil from places that are less environmentally friendly and it would make energy more costly
Knott's Berry Farm Announces Grand Reopening for May 21
Buena Park, Calif. – It’s official: Knott's Berry Farm is reopening its gates next month as the theme park safely resumes regular operations with limited capacity and new reservation requirements. The park will reopen to season passholders May 6, with plans for a grand reopening to the general public on May 21 for a summer-long, Knott’s 100th Anniversary Celebration. "The Knott's Family Reunion" looks to reunite family and friends in a safe and fun environment after a year-long closure due to
Social Enterprise Assists in Filling Post-Pandemic Workforce Gaps
With its world-renowned beaches, sprawling hills and canyons, and of course, Disneyland, Orange County is home to a wealth of hotels, restaurants, and cutting-edge hospitals that belie its small size and make it one of Southern California’s most robust workforce regions. Over the past decade, however, local affordable housing inventory has seen a steady decline, while rents have been on the incline, leading to OC’s young and essential workforce being priced out and edged out. Adding to these pre-pandemic
Tax Day Extended to May 17th
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, both the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the state Franchise Tax Board (FTB) extended the deadlines for individual taxpayers to file their 2020 income tax returns and pay their 2020 taxes to May 17, 2021. This postponement applies to individual filers whose 2020 tax returns and payments were originally due on April 15, 2021. This relief does not apply to quarterly estimated tax payments that are due on April 15, 2021. These payments are still due on April 15. Taxes paid by
Property Concerns to Consider When Working From Home
Since the COVID-19 pandemic took hold, there has been a significant increase in people working away from the traditional office setup. As the government enforces social distancing, working from home (WFH) is now a necessity for many employees, reducing the opportunities for the virus to spread. Working from home brings with it a wide range of advantages and disadvantages, and many employees suddenly found themselves having to adapt quickly. Even for those who might have occasionally worked from home,
