(June 9, 2005) The California Chamber of Commerce-opposed “job killer” bill restricting organizations’ ability to send faxed communications was passed by the Assembly Judiciary Committee earlier this week.

The Chamber considers SB 833 (Bowen; D-Redondo Beach) a “job killer” because it increases costs by placing onerous administrative and economic burdens on associations and employers by requiring express written consent from their own members and/or customers prior to sending certain fax communications.

“California law regarding faxes currently protects communications between those with an established business relationship.  This bill changes that, making it harder for businesses to operate in the state,” said Valerie Nera, Chamber director of agriculture, resources and privacy. “SB 833 will make California unfriendly to businesses and a more costly state to do business in by placing unnecessary burdens on employers.”

The Chamber believes that SB 833 is an intrusion into legitimate business communications between customers and businesses as well as business-to-business relationships.  These business relationships rely on faxes as a main source of communication and marketing to meet the needs of customers. Many trade organizations also depend on faxes to communicate with their members.

Key Vote
SB 833 passed out of the Assembly Judiciary Committee on a 6-2 vote:

Ayes: Jones (D-Sacramento); Goldberg (D-Los Angeles); Laird (D-Santa Cruz); Levine (D-Van Nuys); Lieber (D-Mountain View); and Montañez (D-San Fernando).

Noes: Harman (R-Huntington Beach); and Haynes (R-Murrieta).

Absent/abstaining/not voting: Leslie (R-Tahoe City).

Action Needed
SB 833 will be heard next by the Assembly Business and Professions Committee.  The Chamber is urging employers to write members of the committee in opposition to SB 833. A sample letter is available on the Chamber website.

For more information on SB 833 or to view the entire “job killer” list, please visit the Chamber’s website at www.calchamber.com/jobkillers.