Key Issues
2011 Issues Policy
This policy will act as a guide for addressing legislative and policy matters covered within this policy. The purpose of the adoption of this policy is to streamline Oxnard Chamber of Commerce positions on the issues contained herewith.
Economic Development:
Support local, state and federal proposals to provide jobs via infrastructure projects and encourage government to utilize local contractors and suppliers.
Education & Workforce Development:
Support legislation and programs that prepare the future workforce for jobs in the region.
Employment:
Benefits and Health Care – Oppose state-imposed mandates that penalize the employer and other measures that impact business
Flexible Work Week – Support wage and hour rules and related labor code sections that base overtime on a 40-hour work week rather than on eight hours per day.
Living Wage – Oppose government mandated “living wage” programs that exceed the federal minimum wage standard.
Housing:
Support strategies that include promoting a full range of housing in all communities; establishing federal and state incentives for providing workforce housing; and reforming the regulatory framework to eliminate unnecessary barriers to providing housing. Support efforts to assure neighboring communities provide adequate housing for their workforces. Support housing strategies and projects that maintain a healthy jobs/housing balance.
State Governance:
Support reform of the California budgeting process. Oppose state-mandated, non-funded programs. Discourage bonding proposals that further indebt the State of California.
Taxes and Fees on Business:
Oppose changes/additions to fees and assessments which would have an adverse affect on business by state, federal and local governments. Support protection of local revenues for specific purposes.
Workers’ Compensation:
Support legislation to maintain reforms of the workers’ compensation system and policies to reduce fraud and abuse. Support limits on the ability of workers to receive benefits for non-work related injuries and other conditions.
Infrastructure:
Support policies that encourage continuing improvement in California’s infrastructure, which supports stronger businesses and job growth.
Communications:
Support a uniform state policy that encourages continued investment in the telecommunications industry and improves access to broadband Internet connections.
Water:
Support a long-term, comprehensive water plan that includes new supplies, storage, and conveyance elements.
Transportation:
Support long-term, stable federal, state, county and local funding sources that will maintain, repair and increase mobility in the state’s highways, railways, mass transit and overall transportation system.
Energy:
Support legislation and policy that encourages reliable sources of consistent and affordable energy supply and recognizes the needs of cogeneration and end-users.
Federal Immigration Reform:
Support reforms of federal immigration laws that assure an adequate workforce while addressing border security and the status of undocumented workers.
Local Initiatives:
Support a healthy business growth environment and oppose local initiatives that would constrict business attraction, development and expansion.
This policy is intended to be a guide for Oxnard Chamber of Commerce positions on various issues. It is not intended to cover all issues that the Chamber may address.