California Small Business Advocacy: March Highlights and Upcoming Events
Welcome to the March 9-13 edition of your essential update from California’s small business advocacy team. This week brings a preview of critical legislative activities and opportunities for small business owners across the state.
Legislative Preparations: The Calm Before the Storm
The California Legislature is gearing up for a busy session ahead. Last week, policy committees prioritized their agendas in preparation for the multitude of new bills introduced this year, alongside carryover measures from 2025.
The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) is closely monitoring 53 bills this session—19 in favor, 21 against, and 13 for monitoring purposes. This week, NFIB encourages members to take action on two particularly impactful bills:
- Assembly Bill 1900: Proposes state control over all healthcare decisions.
- Assembly Bill 2646: Aimed at raising the minimum wage.
Make your voice heard on these pivotal issues and stay tuned for future action alerts in your inbox!
Calling All San Luis Obispo County Members!
Small business owners in San Luis Obispo County are invited to a vital meeting hosted by NFIB California State Director, John Kabateck. This event promises insights into recent legislative developments affecting our local businesses. Key discussion topics will include:
- Advocacy priorities for the upcoming 2026 Legislative Session
- Updates on California Coastal Commission regulations
- Other significant laws and mandates impacting small businesses
Event Details:
- When: Wednesday, March 25
- Time: Noon to 1 p.m.
- Where: The Brightside, 1236 Los Osos Valley Rd Ste A, Los Osos, CA
- Register Here
This meeting is a fantastic opportunity to share your business challenges and priorities with the NFIB California team. Registration is required, but the event is free!
State Director’s Crucial Engagements
Following the Los Osos meeting, Director Kabateck will attend a roundtable discussion in Sacramento with the California District Attorneys Association, focusing on securing funding for Proposition 36. This initiative, endorsed by NFIB in the 2024 General Election, aims to combat retail theft. Later that evening, he’ll speak to a select group of business owners about emerging economic trends.
Regulatory Spotlight: Key Updates
California Privacy Protection Agency (CPPA)
On March 3, the CPPA issued a decision that requires PlayOn Sports to pay a $1.1 million fine and alter its practices due to privacy violations in schools—a landmark case for student privacy rights.
Upcoming Meeting on Health Transparency
On March 11 at 1 PM, the Department of Managed Health Care will hold a meeting addressing premium rates and prescription drug cost transparency. This crucial session will feature presentations by various departments, including a discussion from the Office of Health Care Affordability.
NFIB California Media Releases
Last week, NFIB issued three press releases highlighting significant issues for California small businesses:
- California Small Business Optimism Falls Below National Average
- Poll: Hands Off Prop. 13; ADA Needs Reforming
- California Comment on NFIB’s Latest Jobs Report
Calendar of Upcoming Events
- March 25: NFIB member meeting in Los Osos
- March 26 – April 6: Legislature observes Spring Break
- May 5: Small Business Leadership Day at the Capitol
- May 29: Final day for bills to pass their house of origin
- June 2: Primary Election Day for various state offices
- June 15: Deadline to pass the new state budget
- July 2 – August 3: Legislature on Summer Recess
- August 31: End of 2026 legislative session
- September 30: Governor’s deadline to sign or veto bills
Federal Update: Summary from Washington
Recently, the federal government has seen busy sessions in Congress, although no NFIB bills were discussed amid ongoing funding issues for the Department of Homeland Security. Updated talking points on the Credit Card Competition Act and swipe fees have been provided by NFIB.
The latest episode of the Small Business Rundown podcast is now available, focusing on trending state legislative matters and their implications for federal policies.
Stay tuned for the next edition of the Main Street Minute on March 16. You can find all editions archived on the NFIB website by selecting the California tab in the top-right corner.
For small business owners, staying informed and engaged with legislative issues is crucial. Take action now to shape the future of your enterprise in California!
