Golden State Today

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) California has issued its Main Street Minute for January 21-24, highlighting recent developments and ongoing issues impacting small businesses in the state.

Legislative activities in California have slowed due to the Southern California wildfires. However, NFIB Policy Director Tim Taylor anticipates a "big avalanche" of bills once normal activity resumes. Before the fires, Assembly Bill 26 gained attention, though its progress remains uncertain.

Assemblymember Carl DeMaio introduced the Eliminate the Politicians’ Perks Act of 2025, aiming to prohibit legislators from accepting gifts or trading individual stocks and imposing other restrictions. The bill seeks to eliminate government pensions for local elected officials among other measures.

Susan Shelley from The Orange County Register argues that policies, not climate change, are exacerbating wildfires. She highlights issues with water infrastructure and emergency generators during power shutoffs. Senate Bill 1099 sought exemptions for water agencies but faced opposition and did not pass.

In related news, Governor Newsom has suspended environmental laws to facilitate rebuilding in wildfire zones. Tax relief is available for businesses affected by Los Angeles wildfires, and survivors can apply for federal aid through a new website.

Jon Coupal of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association criticizes attempts to reframe tax limits as "subsidies." He defends Proposition 13's method of taxing property based on acquisition value to prevent unaffordable tax increases.

Nationally, NFIB released its Small Business Growth Agenda for Congress and emphasized testimony from member Alison Couch advocating for preserving the 20% Small Business Deduction. NFIB supports legislation by Sen. Tommy Tuberville and Rep. Warren Davidson to repeal the Corporate Transparency Act.

The next Main Street Minute will be released on January 27.