California 2025-2026 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB415

Introduced
2/4/25  
Refer
2/18/25  
Report Pass
4/22/25  
Refer
4/22/25  
Report Pass
5/14/25  
Engrossed
5/23/25  
Refer
5/23/25  

Caption

An act to add Section 12098.8 to the Government Code, relating to small businesses.

Impact

If passed, AB 415 would expand the current functions of the Office of Small Business Advocate. While this office already provides support regarding nonprofit organizations and compliance with statutory requirements, the additional requirement to provide information tailored to small businesses will help streamline the startup process for entrepreneurs. This could potentially lead to an increase in the number of new small businesses operating in California, thereby contributing positively to the state's economy.

Summary

Assembly Bill 415, introduced by Assembly Member Chen, seeks to enhance resources available for small businesses in California. The bill mandates that the Office of Small Business Advocate, which operates under the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), must maintain and post essential information on its website to assist individuals in starting a small business in the state. This initiative is part of a broader effort aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and supporting small business development within California.

Contention

The support for this bill reflects a growing recognition of the challenges that small business owners face in accessing information pertinent to starting and running their businesses. However, potential points of contention could arise regarding the adequacy of the information provided on the website and whether it meets the diverse needs of all potential business owners. Critics may also question the effectiveness of expanding information resources versus providing direct financial aid or grants to new businesses.

Future considerations

As small businesses are a critical component of California’s economy, the implications of AB 415 could be far-reaching, influencing not only the landscape of small business operations but also the state's overall economic health. Stakeholders will likely monitor how this bill could be complemented with further legislation that directly addresses funding and resource allocation for small business initiatives.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA AB2583

Office of Small Business Advocate: artificial intelligence.

CA SB656

Small business: small business liaison.

CA AB685

An act to amend Section 12100.63 of, and to add Article 7.5 (commencing with Section 12100.70) to Chapter 1.6 of Part 2 of Division 3 of Title 2 of of, the Government Code, relating to economic recovery, making an appropriation therefor, and declaring the urgency thereof, to take effect immediately.

CA AB265

Small Business Recovery Fund Act.

CA SB1340

An act to amend Section 14838 of, and to add Section 11148.5.1 to to, the Government Code, and to amend Section 999.10 of the Military and Veterans Code, relating to small businesses.

CA AB1131

An act to amend Section 65400 of the Government Code, relating to housing.

CA AB254

An act to add Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 99530) to Title 20 of the Government Code, relating to international relations.

CA HB1361

Relating To Small Businesses.

CA HB1361

Relating To Small Businesses.

CA AB300

An act to amend Sections 51178 and 51181 of the Government Code, and to amend Sections 4202 and 4204 of the Public Resources Code, relating to land use.

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