This month, the Torrance Area Jaycees had the opportunity to be a part of the Torrance Education Foundation’s renovation project. The Foundation was getting new flooring and needed help moving their furniture around for the workers to access the floor. The Jaycees stepped in to help, and are extremely proud to have been a part of this transformation. Take a look at the before & after photos to see what a difference the new flooring makes!

The Torrance Area Jaycees is a young professional’s organization for members ages 18-40 who are dedicated to creating positive change in the community. A chapter of Junior Chamber International (JCI), the Torrance Jaycees are excited to be involved locally in the South Bay community as well as be a part of an international community of young professionals taking action and making a difference.

In addition to community outreach events, members enjoy regular monthly networking mixers to further their career development as young professionals. Mixers are held at different venues each month to highlight the variety of options that the South Bay has to offer! If you have any questions or would like to attend an upcoming event, please CLICK HERE to email Melissa Yamada.

The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) has announced the third quarter application period is open for businesses interested in applying for the California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC). Applications must be submitted by August 21.

The California Competes Tax Credit is an income tax credit available to businesses that want to come, stay, or grow in California. Tax credit agreements are negotiated by GO-Biz and approved by a statutorily created “California Competes Tax Credit Committee,” consisting of the State Treasurer, the Director of the Department of Finance, the Director of GO-Biz, and one appointee each by the Assembly Speaker and Senate Rules Committee.

This program is open to any business planning to create new full-time jobs in the state, regardless of size or location. Businesses can access the online application here.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has updated its guidance manual, Handbook for Employers, Guidance for Completing the Form I-9 (M-274). This useful manual provides employers with detailed instructions on completing the Form I-9. The revised version is dated 1/22/17.

The updated manual reflects revisions to the Form I-9. As previously reported, the USCIS recently published a revised Form I-9 (Rev. 11/14/2016 N) that must be used by all employers.

The USCIS has also published a table that outlines the significant changes made to the guidance manual. For instance, there is updated guidance regarding:

• Expired documents
• Reverification
• An employer’s responsibility regarding authenticity of documents
• Unlawful immigration practices and unfair documentary practices
• 
  

Employers with Form I-9 questions can consult the updated M-274. I-9 Central is also a useful resource for employers.