News

Leaders Forum features Attorney General Kamala Harris
Collaboration between government and business community stressed

California State Attorney General Kamala Harris joined VICA members for a Leaders Forum luncheon at The Beverly Garland Holiday Inn. The state’s chief law enforcement officer discussed border security, local court funding and other legal matters facing California. Harris stressed the need for greater investment in technology, citing her initiative to equip digital forensic labs across the state. The national debate over foreclosures featured prominently, with Harris highlighting her support for a state legislative package that creates a Homeowner Bill of Rights. The Attorney General also shared her dedication to solving consumer privacy concerns by collaborating with the technology sector. Other issues addressed included reducing abuse of the California Environment Quality Act and speeding court access to hearings for civil cases. The luncheon was presented by Boeing and Microsoft and co-sponsored by US Bank.


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VICA backs bill to protect technology sector
California’s position as epicenter of Internet economy preserved

VICA supports a bill that fosters investment, job creation and innovation in California’s technology sector. Senate Bill 1161 (Padilla) prohibits state agencies from regulating internet voice communication services, such as Skype and Google Voice, unless prompted by the Federal Communications Commission and directed to do so by the state Legislature. The bill was inspired by recent comments by California Public Utilities Commission staff regarding the re-classification of these service providers as “telephone corporations.” Such reclassification would prompt application of state laws imposed on traditional landline voice services, hindering industry growth. SB 1161 will prevent state regulations that exceed federal policy and result in divestment of tech companies from our state.


Governor Brown releases revised budget plan 
Proposal includes four-day workweek for public employees

Governor Jerry Brown released his May Revise budget plan for fiscal year 2012-2013 this week. Facing a $16 billion revenue shortfall, the Governor recommended reductions to local trial court funding, Medi-Cal, in-home support services and higher education, among others. The plan takes into account lower-than-anticipated tax revenues and increased K-14 funding liability mandated by Proposition 98. Though the areas cut were largely anticipated, the Governor surprised many with a recommendation to reduce public agency costs by shortening the employee workweek to 4 days consisting of 9.5 hours – a reform that VICA has pursued for years. (A report on the flexible workweek, commissioned by VICA, may be found here.) The Governor’s plan relies on the passage of his proposed November ballot initiative to increase the state sales tax and personal income tax for earners of $250,000 or more. If the initiative does not qualify or pass, the plan recommends trigger cuts to education and public safety. The Legislature has until June 15 to pass a budget.


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Local Update: VICA's monthly column in the San Fernando Valley Business Journal

Valley shows off its best for travel Pow Wow
Local Update: VICA’s monthly column in the SFVBJ

The premier event for the travel industry is making its way to Los Angeles. The city last hosted the U.S. Travel Association’s International Pow Wow in 2004 and will do so again beginning this weekend — April 21-25. In just a few days, more than 1,000 U.S. travel organizations, 1,200 buyers from more than 70 countries, and 480 travel journalists will be in Los Angeles learning about the city’s hidden gems and tourist attractions. The local economic benefits are impressive for Pow Wow host cities. Los Angeles is expected to see an immediate economic boost of $9.7 million, and can anticipate an additional $350 million during the two to four years following the event due to increased international travel. Click here to read the entire column in the San Fernando Valley Business Journal.