Anthony Malandra Senior Media Manager – West | Official Website
Anthony Malandra Senior Media Manager – West | Official Website
NFIB hosted a conference call on February 25 to discuss rebuilding efforts following the Southern California wildfires. The event featured insights from members of the governor's office and representatives from business associations, focusing on resources available for recovery.
John Kabateck, NFIB California State Director, facilitated the discussion with guests Clair Whitmer, deputy director of the Governor’s Office of the Small Business Advocate; David Englin, president of BizFed of Los Angeles County; and Tim Taylor, legislative and policy director for NFIB California.
Whitmer described her agency as “the main conduit for information content and resources from the governor’s office,” aiming to “accelerate the resiliency of California’s small businesses” through programs like Outsmart Disaster. She highlighted that her office is also focusing on “home-based businesses, which are often overlooked.” Additionally, she mentioned a 28-page online flipbook titled "Navigate Any Roadblock. Create a Resiliency Roadmap for Your Small Business" as a resource.
Addressing concerns about loans, Whitmer noted that many small business owners are still managing COVID-19 EIDL loans. She encouraged participation in the SBA relief program by March 10: “You don’t have to accept the loan. You still have time to make a business decision after you get in the queue.”
Englin provided an overview of BizFed’s role as a coalition representing 240 chambers of commerce and other organizations throughout Los Angeles County. He emphasized their partnership with Together for L.A., offering small business resources and working on legislation to support employees affected by the fires. Englin pointed out concerns about funding availability for businesses indirectly impacted by wildfires.
Taylor reported from Sacramento about legislative efforts addressing wildfire-related issues. He mentioned there are currently numerous bills related to wildfires being considered.
Additional resource information can be found on NFIB's California page.
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