(June 22, 2005) The California Chamber of Commerce-opposed “job killer” bill restricting organizations’ ability to send faxed communications was passed by the Assembly Business and Professions Committee yesterday.

“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 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.

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 was passed by the Assembly Business and Professions Committee on a 7-3 vote.

Ayes: Negrete McLeod (D-Chino); Bass (D-Los Angeles); Koretz (D-West Hollywood); Nation (D-San Rafel); Ruskin; (D-Palo Alto); Vargas (D-San Diego) and Yee (D-San Francisco).

Noes: S. Horton (R-Chula Vista); Maze (R-Visalia); Tran (R-Garden Grove).

Action Needed
Although the bill will be heard next by the Assembly Appropriations Committee, the Chamber is urging employers to start writing letters opposing SB 833 to their Assembly representative now.

Staff Contact: Valerie Nera