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Serving the San Fernando Valley cities of Los Angeles, Burbank, Glendale, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, San Fernando, and Santa Clarita
Valley Industry & Commerce Association || vica.com
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- Governor Signs PAGA Reform, Initiative Removed from November Ballot
- VICA Victory! LA City Council Approves Convention Center Expansion Before Recess
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LA County Considers Ballot for Board Expansion
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"The expansion and modernization of the Los Angeles Convention Center are critical for the continued recovery of our local economy. Citywide conventions support thousands of jobs and hundreds of businesses across every L.A. region and neighborhood, and we're grateful to the city council for their leadership in advancing this pivotal initiative with today's vote."
Adam Burke, President & CEO of LA Tourism & Convention Board
Statement following LA City Council's Approval of the LA Convention Center Expansion Project
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Governor Newsom Signs PAGA Reform Legislation, Removing Initiative Off the November Ballot | |
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The recent legislative reforms achieved with AB 2288 and SB 92 are a monumental success in the ongoing effort to balance labor rights with business interests in California. Sponsored by Assemblymember Kalra and Senator Umberg, respectively, these laws address key concerns under California's Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA). AB 2288 streamlines the procedures for employees to bring lawsuits against employers, promoting resolution through alternative dispute methods before resorting to litigation. This aims to reduce unnecessary legal expenses and focus on genuine grievances. Meanwhile, SB 92 adjusts penalties related to PAGA violations to ensure they are substantial enough to deter employer violations while not threatening business sustainability.
This significant progress in reforming labor laws has led to withdrawing a related PAGA reform initiative from the upcoming November ballot. The successful passage of these bills demonstrates the effectiveness of legislative action in preempting the need for ballot measures, thereby streamlining efforts to refine state labor laws directly through legislative channels rather than public voting. This strategic move is a testament to the proactive capabilities of California's legislative process in responding to complex issues affecting the workforce and the economic environment.
VICA is extremely pleased with the outcome of these reforms, viewing them as a major victory for the business community. These changes are expected to provide a more equitable business landscape and enhance the overall economic climate in California. VICA remains committed to continuing its advocacy efforts, ensuring that the business community’s needs are well-represented and supported in future legislative developments.
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VICA Victory: LA Convention Center Expansion Approved by City Council | |
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Following a robust advocacy campaign by VICA, the Los Angeles City Council has enthusiastically endorsed the expansion of the LA Convention Center, passing the motion with a decisive 13-1 vote. VICA President Stuart Waldman championed the initiative at City Hall, emphasizing the revitalization it will bring to Los Angeles' economic landscape. The expansion is poised to dramatically enhance the city's appeal as a prime convention hub and is expected to generate substantial business growth and employment opportunities.
Projected net operating revenues are estimated at approximately $2.9 billion over 30 years, with an average annual income of about $96 million. The project is expected to contribute incrementally to the General Fund through tax revenues, averaging an additional $19 million annually. This revenue will come primarily from increased sales tax and transient occupancy tax, driven by greater event attendance and higher visitor spending in the city.
We are excited to witness the modernization of the Los Angeles Convention Center finally taking shape after many years of discussion and delays. This expansion will substantially benefit the LA community, fostering economic growth and revitalizing the area. The community stands to benefit greatly from the influx of visitors and the enhanced business opportunities that come with a state-of-the-art convention center.
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LA County Governance Reform to Appear on the November Ballot | |
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On Wednesday, Supervisors Lindsey Horvath and Janice Hahn introduced a motion to modernize and enhance accountability within the governance of Los Angeles County, which is set to be placed on the November 2024 ballot. This reform package was discussed in a conference held this Wednesday, with the aim to expand the Board of Supervisors from five to nine members, establish an elected County Executive, and create an independent Ethics Commission. These changes are stated to ensure a more representative, effective, and transparent government, addressing the needs and challenges of a county that has grown immensely since the current governance structure was established in 1912.
This proposal will be presented to the County Board of Supervisors next Tuesday, July 9th. For more detailed information, please see the documents below, including the fact sheet, motion language, and county press release. The measure will be taken up at the Government Affairs Committee on July 17.
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Transportation Committee
July 9 at 8:30 AM
Hosted by The Garland
RSVP
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Government Affairs Committee
July 17 at Noon
At the VICA Office
RSVP
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Councilmember Nithya Raman
Tuesday, July 30 | 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Nithya Raman, an urban planner and Harvard and MIT graduate, serves on the Los Angeles City Council representing District 4. In 2020, she became the first Asian-American woman and South Asian on the council after years of community work addressing homelessness. As a council member, Raman prioritizes homeless services, affordable housing, and climate goals, while her team focuses on proactive constituent services.
Raman chairs the Housing & Homelessness Committee and serves on several other city committees and boards. She was appointed to the South Coast Air Quality Management District Governing Board and the Los Angeles County Affordable Housing Solutions Agency Board.
Our After Dark with Councilmember Nithya is brought to you by our presenting host sponsor, Hilton Universal City/Los Angeles; Presenting Sponsors Digital Restaurant Association, Southern Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD), DoorDash; and Co-sponsor Southland Regional Association of Realtors, Inc. (SRAR).
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Thank You to Our Renewing Members! | | |
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President's Circle
Gold
Silver
Renewing Member
New Members
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Concerns on President Biden's Mental Fitness for Office
Amid discussions around President Joe Biden's capacity to serve, a new poll suggests growing public concern over his mental abilities. This inquiry into whether Biden should pursue reelection given his age reflects significant voter uncertainty about his fitness to continue in office. The debate touches on broader concerns about age and capability in high office, sparking discussion across the political spectrum. Read the full report here.
Governor Newsom Signs $468 Billion Budget
Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a substantial $468 billion budget to address multiple key issues within California. This budget supports various sectors, including public health and safety, and underscores the administration's commitment to fostering substantial state development. The budget allocation aims to tackle ongoing challenges such as homelessness, healthcare, and climate change. Click here for more detailed coverage.
Supreme Court Upholds Trump's Claim on Presidential Immunity
The U.S. Supreme Court has confirmed a specific aspect of presidential immunity for Donald Trump, ruling that he cannot be held legally accountable for certain actions in office. This decision narrows down the scope of activities covered by presidential immunity, specifically exempting certain types of conduct from legal consequences. This ruling could significantly influence future interpretations of presidential powers and the accountability of POTUS after their terms end. More can be found here.
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Newsom and Democratic Leaders Withdraw Crime Ballot Measure
In a strategic shift, Governor Gavin Newsom, along with other Democratic leaders in California, have decided to drop their proposed ballot measure addressing crime. This measure aimed to enhance penalties for drug and retail crimes but was deemed unnecessary due to recent legislative actions tackling similar issues. The leaders believe this legislative solution will provide more flexible and immediate benefits than the proposed measure. More about the decision here.
SCOTUS Decision Will Reshape Regulatory Powers
Recent rulings by the U.S. Supreme Court are poised to alter the regulatory landscape. These decisions could restrict the powers of federal agencies, impact how regulations are applied, and challenge existing governance frameworks across various sectors. The implications of these rulings are profound, potentially influencing how environmental, financial, and consumer protections are enforced in the future. Read the analysis here.
Lebron to Re-Sign with the Lakers
Lebron James has agreed to a two-year, $104 million contract to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers, including a player option for the second year and a no-trade clause. Despite having the option for a longer contract, James chose a flexible "one-plus-one" deal. He's considering taking a $1 million pay cut to help the Lakers stay under the salary cap, allowing them to potentially sign significant additional players. You can read the full article here.
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Get Your Message in VICA Weekly!
VICA members can promote their business, events and news in VICA Weekly. Member messages are available for $50 per week or $175 for four weeks. Messages are text-based and may not contain more than 70 words. A logo may be added for an additional $5 per week. For more information or to schedule your member message, contact yoko@vica.com or call (818) 817-0545.
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ABOUT VICA
Presenting the business perspective on behalf of employers in the
San Fernando Valley cities of Los Angeles, Burbank, Glendale, Calabasas,
Hidden Hills, San Fernando and Santa Clarita.
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