Overview
California politics and governance enter a new era in 2013.
Although the California economy has turned the corner, it still faces severe headwinds. The unemployment rate has dropped by more than 2.5 percentage points and more than a half-million jobs have been created since the recession’s trough in 2010. But as of the end of 2012, the state’s 9.8% unemployment rate still is the third worst in the nation, and at this rate of recovery, California won’t attain the employment level from before the recession for another three years.
The California recovery also has been uneven, both regionally and by industry sector.
Politically, California’s prospects are even more uncertain.
CalChamber Solutions for a Strong California
The California Chamber of Commerce has developed a detailed policy agenda to restore the economic health of the state. These proposals can serve as a foundation for the Legislature and Governor in 2013 to position California competitively to take advantage of the economic recovery.
California policy makers should keep a simple focus on the number one issue affecting their constituents: economic recovery and job creation. This can be accomplished by minimizing uncertainty for job creators and investors.
- Keep taxes on business and investment low, fair, stable and predictable.
- Reduce the regulatory and litigation costs of operating a business—especially when hiring and keeping employees.
- Reduce the cost and improve the certainty and stability of investing in new or expanded plants, equipment and technology.
- Invest in public and private works that provide the backbone for economic growth.
- Ensure the availability of high quality skilled employees.