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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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- VICA Continues Strong Advocacy Efforts into February
- VICA PAC Endorsements and Ballot Measures
- VICA is looking for Meeting Sponsors
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“This appointment will continue our work to make Los Angeles safer. I look forward to working with Interim Chief Choi in the coming months as he provides steady and stable leadership for our police department. Interim Chief Choi's more than 28 years of service to this City as a member of the police department put him in a unique position to not only lead, but to grow and improve our department.”
Mayor Karen Bass
Statement on the appointment of Dominic H. Choi to serve as Interim Chief of LAPD
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VICA Continues Strong Advocacy Efforts Leading into February | |
During a vigorous and dynamic week of advocacy, VICA demonstrated a commitment to fostering innovation, economic growth, and community welfare while navigating issues at the city, state, and federal levels. Here's a detailed look at the impactful week of continued advocacy efforts. | |
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Opposing Bayh-Dole March-In for Prescriptions
VICA's opposition to the recent utilization of march-in rights by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) under the Bayh-Dole Act stems from a deep concern for the pharmaceutical industry and healthcare. The Bayh-Dole Act, a catalyst for technological progress, faces a potential misinterpretation as the Biden administration aims to use march-in rights to lower prescription drug costs. VICA calls for a judicious application of the Act, opposing actions that deviate from its foundational principles and intended goals.
Our opposition is grounded in the understanding that the Bayh-Dole Act was designed to expedite the transition of innovations from research labs to the marketplace, encouraging private investments in research and development. However, VICA contends that the Biden administration's attempt to use march-in rights based on pricing disagreements with the pharmaceutical industry poses the risk of undermining the Act's core purpose. The Bayh-Dole Coalition emphasizes the need for dialogue and a reconsideration of NIST's approach to maintaining an environment conducive to innovation while ensuring affordable access to vital medications.
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Opposing CARB Jet Fuel Exemption Ruling
VICA asserts its opposition to the California Air Resources Board's proposed elimination of the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) exemption for intrastate fossil jet fuel, citing potential economic burdens and feasibility challenges for the aviation industry. While acknowledging the aviation industry's commitment to cleaner alternatives, VICA contends that the proposed CARB regulation faces critical challenges, including technological limitations. Urging CARB to reconsider, VICA advocated for a collaborative approach that allows for necessary technological advancements and infrastructure development before imposing new regulations.
One of the central concerns lies in the proposed limits on Alternative Jet Fuel (AJF) and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production. The current shortage of producers capable of meeting the demand for AJF and SAF demonstrates how prematurely imposing such regulations would harm the industry and have adverse consequences for the broader economy. The potential escalation of costs for the aviation industry could impact not only providers, but also directly affect travelers through substantial airfare and fee hikes, impeding the movement of individuals and goods.
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Supporting Bonseph Helinet Leasing Agreement
VICA strongly supports the proposed lease agreement between Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) and Bonseph Helinet, LLC for the redevelopment of land and facilities at Van Nuys Airport (VNY). The $26 million investment by Bonseph Helinet is not only pivotal for revitalizing the site, but also aligns seamlessly with sustainable development practices. The project, expected to generate over 100 high-wage local jobs and comply with CALGreen Tier One Requirements, showcases a transformative step towards economic growth and community engagement.
Beyond the economic impact, VICA recognizes Bonseph Helinet's impressive track record of providing essential services to the community, particularly in supporting children's hospitals and local law enforcement. The proposed lease addresses immediate challenges surrounding the deteriorating state of existing facilities, offering a viable solution to move to a larger and newer facility. This move not only resolves maintenance concerns but also provides a conducive environment for workers to excel in their roles and pilots to carry out their vital work, contributing to both economic development and community welfare.
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VICA Attended In-person Select Committee on Retail Theft
VICA actively participated in the joint, in-person meeting of the California Legislature's Select Committee on Retail Theft and the Assembly Public Safety Committee at the West Hollywood City Council Chambers. Addressing the alarming surge in retail theft, VICA encouraged businesses and colleagues to attend, emphasizing the unique opportunity for collective advocacy.
The joint committee meeting represents a pivotal platform for the business community to advocate for measures that protect businesses and communities. The urgency of addressing retail crime was emphasized at the meeting, providing a unique opportunity for unity by allowing businesses to collectively advocate for effective solutions to combat the concerning trends and protect the interests of the community at large.
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VICA PAC 2024 Voter Guide | |
The VICA PAC Committee has made the following endorsements: | |
Board of Supervisors, District 5 | | |
LA City Council, District 2 | | |
LA City Council, District 4 | | |
LA City Council, District 6 | | |
LA City Council, District 12 | | |
The VICA Board of Directors has taken the following positions for the March 5 Ballot Measures | |
Proposition 1 (State Measure): Allocates funding for construction, expansion, and renovation of treatment facilities, supportive housing units, and outpatient services. | |
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Healthy Streets LA (City Measure): Requires the city to prioritize street improvement measures including concept maps for connected networks of pedestrian, bicycle, transit, and vehicle routes | |
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VICA is Looking for 2024 Board and Committee Sponsors | |
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VICA is looking for members to host or sponsor our board meetings and committee meetings in the upcoming year. If your company can accommodate 20-40 individuals and provide breakfast or lunch, we have a committee opportunity for you!
As a host, you'll have the chance to extend a warm welcome, promote your organization and site, and be featured on each agenda with table cards throughout the meetings.
You can host/sponsor the entire committee for the year, or you can host/sponsor 1 meeting for the year, including the VICA Board Meetings.
Unable to host? Please consider sponsoring a meeting at the VICA office. As a sponsor, you'll provide meals for committee meetings while having your logo displayed on the meetings' agendas and table cards.
For details and available committee meetings, please visit the link below.
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VICA Thanks Our Renewing Members! | | |
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Gold Member
Silver Member
Renewing Members
New Member
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VICA's State Officeholders Dinner provides guests a rare opportunity for Valley business leaders to connect and engage with state officeholders in a casual, fun for all format. VICA will provide cocktails, appetizers, and dinner for each attendee and great opportunities to network and speak with elected officials.
State Officeholders Dinner
Friday, March 8, 2024
5:30 - 9:00 PM
Soundstage 15 at Universal Studios Hollywood
VICA thanks our Presenting Sponsors Comcast NBCUniversal, Amazon, and Kaiser Permanente, and Co-Sponsors AT&T, PhRMA, SoCalGas, and Southwest Airlines
Click the "Register Here" Button to Register for the Early Bird Rate, Ends February 15! Click the "Sponsor This Event" Button to support VICA's State Officeholders Dinner!
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Confirmed Elected Officials | |
Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva | |
Senator Maria Elena Durazo | |
Assemblymember Miguel Santiago | |
Assemblymember Marie Waldron | |
Assemblymember Josh Hoover | |
Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo | |
Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur | |
Assemblymember Laura Friedman | |
Assemblymember Heath Flora | |
Assemblymember PIlar Schiavo | |
Board of Equalization Member Antonio Vazquez | |
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Newsmaker Connection: CD 6 Debate
February 12 | 3:00 - 4:30 PM
Zoom
Join VICA for a special Newsmaker Connection Council District 6 Debate. This special debate will provide members with the unique opportunity to meet, listen and speak with the CD 6 contenders.
Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor: State Farm
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Sacramento Advocacy Days
Tuesday, February 27 I All Day
Tuesday, March 19 | All Day
Wednesday, April 10 | All Day
VICA's regular advocacy trips to the State Capitol are crucial for ensuring that the voice of the business community is heard by legislators.
These members-only trips allow attendees to interact directly with statewide elected officials, discussing the issues that are vital to our members. Join VICA in Sacramento for one of our monthly advocacy trips, and don't miss this opportunity to have your voice heard on how legislation affects your company/organization!
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ACCESS D.C. 2024
March 12, 2024 - March 14, 2024
Washington, D.C.
ACCESS D.C. is the region’s largest annual advocacy trip, connecting more than 200 business and civic leaders with federal lawmakers on issues ranging from immigration and education to transportation and health care.
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Program Agenda
Tuesday, March 12:
- VICA Delegation Day (9:00 AM - 4:00 PM) - MUST REGISTER THROUGH VICA TO JOIN THE VICA DAY
- Lunch with Congressman Brad Sherman in the House Members' Dining Room (12:30 PM)
- Welcome Reception (5:00 PM - 6:30 PM)
Wednesday, March 13:
- Breakfast Program with Keynote elected officials/admin (8:00 am - 11:25 AM)
- Delegation Photo (11:25 AM - 11:40 AM)
- Team Assembly, discussion of talking points (11:40 AM - 12:00 PM)
- Delegation Meetings on the Hill (12:30 PM - 4:30 PM)
- Evening Reception with Congressmembers (5:30 PM - 7:00 PM)
Thursday, March 14:
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Breakfast Closing Reception and Speakers (8:00 AM - 10:30 AM)
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Delegation Meetings (11:00 AM - 2:00 PM)
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Land Use Committee
Tuesday, February 13
8:30 to 10:30 AM
Hosted by The Garland
RSVP
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Not-for-Profit Committee
Wednesday, February 14
8:30 to 10:30 AM
Sponsored by Pacific Federal
RSVP
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Government Affairs Committee
Wednesday, February 21
Noon to 2:00 PM
RSVP
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Extraordinary Women in Leadership Breakfast
Friday, April 26
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
RSVP
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Senate Bill to Prevent Camps Near Schools
Homeless encampments located 500 feet from "sensitive communities" would be targeted for removal under a new, bipartisan California Senate Bill modeled on San Diego's anti-camping law. State Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones (R-Santee) on Monday introduced Senate Bill 1011, with support from seven Republican senators, two Democratic senators, and eight Assemblymembers. California has spent more than $22 billion over the last four years on initiatives to combat the housing and homelessness crises, including $10.7 billion that was allocated from the 2021-22 budget and $7.2 billion from 2022-23.
Court Argues Over Disqualifying Trump
Justices across the US Supreme Court's ideological spectrum fretted on Thursday over attempts to keep former President Donald Trump off of this year's ballot.. Some of the judges expressed concern over letting individual states decide whether or not presidential candidates should be disqualified for engaging in an insurrection, worrying that such actions could create a chaotic electoral map where candidates are on the ballot in some states but not others, and the prospect of candidates being kept off of ballots as a kind of retribution. There's currently no timeframe for when the court will issue a ruling, but the court has moved quickly throughout the case.
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LA County OK's Sidewalk Vending Ordinance
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors gave final approval to a pair of ordinances regulating sidewalk food vendors, while also adopting a subsidy program to offset much of the permit cost included in the new regulations. The board gave preliminary approval to the vending ordinances last week, saying there are roughly 10,000 sidewalk vendors selling food in the county, most of them coming from Latino and other communities of color. The same day, the Los Angeles City Council voted to give vendors significant relief from a $541 annual fee for permits to conduct business, and approved lowering costs.
CA to use AI to Answer Tax Questions
The Department of Tax and Fee Administration in California, comprising of 3,696 personnel, intends to leverage generative artificial intelligence to assist its 375 call center agents in interpreting and applying the state tax code. These AI-generated insights will be utilized to guide California business owners seeking tax advice. While the tax department emphasizes that this technology will always have oversight from a call center employee to review the responses, a requirement in their request for proposals underscores the necessity for any AI solution to be capable of delivering responses across various channels, including incoming voice calls, live chats, and other communication methods.
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JPMorgan Chase is excited to announce that applications for the Advancing Black Pathways (ABP) and Advancing Hispanics & Latinos (AHL) Fellowship Programs are now open through February 12! The program will be held from June 24 – July 26, 2024 in select JPMorgan Chase offices.
The five-week, paid, full-time program is designed to introduce students from all backgrounds — including, without limitation, Black, Hispanic and Latino — to the financial industry and help build a pathway to future career opportunities. We are looking for individuals from all backgrounds and perspectives to help us grow and position our businesses for the future.
Eligible candidates must be college sophomores with a graduation date between December 2025 and June 2026 and interested in financial services careers. The program provides exposure and professional development opportunities to students from communities that are underrepresented in the industry; however, all eligible students, regardless of background, are welcome to apply.
Participants who complete the Fellowship Program are encouraged to apply for the JPMorgan Chase internship program. Upon successful completion of that internship, they will have the opportunity to apply for full-time employment with the firm.
Link to Advancing Black Pathways Fellowship: https://jpmorganchase.com/ABPFellowship
Link to Advancing Hispanic & Latinos Fellowship: https://jpmorganchase.com/AHLFellowship
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VICA members can sign up for this event at the VIA's member rate | |
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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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