Golden State Today

CalChamber has unveiled its affordability agenda for 2025, rebranding its long-standing "Job Killer" list to a new initiative focused on promoting economic growth and cost reduction for Californian businesses and consumers. Jennifer Barrera, President & CEO of CalChamber, clarified the organization's new approach, stating, "While the Job Killer list has served us well for more than 25 years, it has become clear that CalChamber’s focus must no longer be limited to legislation that just impacts jobs."

The rebranded effort will categorize legislation into "Cost Cutters," which favor cost reduction, and "Cost Drivers," which may increase expenses for businesses and consumers. Barrera added, "Unfortunately, we’ve seen far too many bills that are costly for Californians in 2025 than we have in previous years."

CalChamber announced several bills under its Cost Cutter category, including SB 540, which aims to reduce energy costs by integrating California utilities into a regional energy market, and AB 231, which offers tax credits for businesses hiring the previously incarcerated. Additionally, AB 265 provides grants for small businesses impacted by Los Angeles fires.

On the Cost Driver side, SB 7 and SB 295 have been flagged for potentially increasing litigation and compliance costs for businesses. SB 573, suggesting a significant increase in corporate tax rates, was also cited as a detriment to business competitiveness. Furthermore, AB 298 has been highlighted for potentially raising insurance premiums by prohibiting cost-sharing for certain health care services.

The list presentation emphasizes the growing importance of cost considerations for Californians, a sentiment reinforced by recent electoral results indicating that affordability and living expenses rank high among voters' concerns. As updates to the legislative list are expected in the coming months, CalChamber aims to hold policymakers accountable on these critical issues, advocating for greater affordability and sustainable job creation.