Video & Transcript : 'immigration verification' :
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MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Committee on Jobs and Economic Development - 02/18/26
Jobs and Economic Development
Transcript Highlights:
- <c> not</c><00:23:17.679><c> evenly</c> immigrant workers are not evenly immigrant workers are not evenly
- And so immigrants are uh and physicians.
- ,</c> credential recognition for immigrants, credential recognition for immigrants, language<00:30:19.440
- </c> when we're talking about the immigration when we're talking about the immigration numbers<00:42:
- ><c> that</c><00:51:22.559><c> we</c><00:51:22.800><c> see</c> immigration um pattern that we see immigration
Committee:
Senate Jobs and Economic Development
MN
Transcript Highlights:
- our um Sports refugees our immigrants our um Sports Heroes<00:09:23.880><c> our</c><00:09:24.079><c>
- </c><00:30:31.080><c> to</c> veterans and their family immigrated to veterans and their family immigrated
- the rest of the immigrant population in the United States, and some of the barriers to growth that immigrants
- the rest of the immigrant population in the United States, and some of the barriers to growth that immigrants
- So the African immigrant community is the largest Black community in Minnesota.
Committee:
House Legacy Finance
FL
Florida 2025 Regular Session
October 14, 2025 - 03:30 PM
Transcript Highlights:
- IN ADDITION FEDERAL RULES REMOVE SOME BARRIERS TO ENROLLMENT INCLUDING RELAXING INCOME VERIFICATION STANDARDS
- DATA MATCHING, INCOME VERIFICATION AND AS A RESULT YOU WILL SEE A LARGE GROUP OF PEOPLE PARTICIPATING
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Via its digital network application and clarifies that verification requirements for delivery persons
- believe the instrument is fraudulent or the prospective filer does not provide the clerk additional verification
Bills:
SB438 , SB512 , SB647 , SB648 , SB1495 , SB2121 , SB2145 , SB2154 , SB2167 , SB2184 , SB2211 , SB2268 , SB2349 , SB2443 , SB2629 , SB2702 , SB2902
Committee:
Senate Business & Commerce
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Business and Commerce met with a quorum and took up several pending bills, voting favorably on SB 1612, SB 2717, SB 1468, SB 1642, and SB 1789. SB 1612 was reported favorably with objections to the local and contested calendar, while SB 2717, SB 1468, SB 1642, and SB 1789 were reported favorably, with SB 1642 and SB 1789 sent to the floor. SB 2717 would create the Texas Energy Efficiency Council; SB 1642 would add an executive director to the Texas Department of Insurance structure; and SB 1789 would establish pole standards and clarify PUC authority and remedies. The committee also heard an ERCOT update from CEO Pablo Vegas on the updated long-term load forecast, which showed a much higher unadjusted growth projection driven largely by data centers. ERCOT described an adjusted forecast using historical delays and lower realized build rates, and members discussed reliability, generation timelines, and the importance of SB 6 for demand response and flexibility.
The committee then heard and left pending SB 2629, which would allow condominium and property owners’ association meetings and voting by electronic means; SB 2702, which would let nationally certified professionals test backflow prevention assemblies without a separate TCEQ license; SB 2167, which would let TDLR pause new license applications tied to human trafficking emergency orders or pending SOAH cases; SB 2349, which would exempt short-term leases and certain leasebacks from flood disclosure requirements; SB 2121, which would tighten the data broker registry law; and SB 2443, which would authorize TDLR electronic delivery of notices and other documents. Testimony generally supported these bills as cleanup, modernization, or workforce-streamlining measures, with some members expressing caution about electronic meetings and emphasizing in-person accountability.
The committee also heard SB 2902 on coerced debt and identity theft, with testimony from a law professor and family violence advocates supporting stronger protections for survivors and suggesting a police report as an additional proof option. SB 512, a refiled bill restricting money transmission license holders from fining users for terms-of-service violations, also received supportive testimony and was left pending. Later, the committee heard SB 2145 on allowing certain TIF boards to meet virtually in narrow circumstances, SB 2268 on extending Texas Energy Fund loan deadlines in some cases, SB 1495 creating an EV supply equipment advisory board, SB 2154 regulating delivery network companies under a statewide framework, SB 2184 lowering the age for pyrotechnic operator and fireworks display permits from 21 to 18, SB 2211 on combining data centers, power generation, and produced-water desalination projects, and SB 647 on title theft protections and clerk authority to refuse fraudulent filings. Most of these bills were left pending after brief testimony and questions, with members focusing on reliability, regulation, and safeguards against fraud.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Select Committee on California and Armenia Mutual Trade, Art, and Cultural Exchange Aug 5th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- Armenians have been immigrating to California as early as the 1880s, and today California is home to
- Our third pillar is reducing barriers for California's immigrant entrepreneurs through our immigrant
- And there's no better example of this immigrant community's success.
- And there's no better example of this immigrant community's success than ServiceTitan.
- I came to California when I was six years old as an immigrant, and I went to school here.
Summary:
The inaugural meeting of the Select Committee on California and Armenia Mutual Trade, Art, and Cultural Exchange focused on strengthening California-Armenia ties through trade, investment, education, culture, and diplomacy. Chair Harabedian and Assemblymember Caloza opened by emphasizing the importance of the Armenian-American community in California and the committee’s goal of expanding opportunities for business, job creation, cultural preservation, and academic exchange. The Republic of Armenia’s ambassador and the Armenian Consul General both described Armenia as a growing strategic partner for California, highlighting recent peace and connectivity developments, Armenia’s diversification strategy, and the role of the Armenian diaspora in linking the two places.
The first panel featured Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis and Go-Biz trade specialist Trisha Utterback. Kounalakis reviewed the 2019 California-Armenia framework agreement and the opening of the California trade and services desk in Yerevan, noting growth in academic ties and California’s support for Armenia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Utterback outlined Go-Biz’s trade and investment programs and reported that California-Armenia two-way trade has more than doubled since 2019, with exports rising sharply; she cited examples of California companies expanding into Armenia and Armenian businesses seeking California opportunities. Members asked about future priorities, and panelists pointed to tech, clean energy, agriculture, and continued outreach through trade and investment programs.
A second panel centered on Glendale’s role as a gateway for the partnership. Mayor Ara Najarian described Glendale’s large Armenian-American population, the Armenian American Museum, sister-city relationships, and the city’s role in cultural and economic diplomacy, while also raising concerns about Artsakh, displaced Armenians, detainees, and discrimination against Armenian Americans. Vahe Kozoyan of ServiceTitan shared his company’s growth from a Glendale startup to a global firm with major operations in Armenia, and Armina Galstian of SmartGate VC and Hero House Glendale described a California-Armenia innovation corridor supporting startups, AI, robotics, cybersecurity, and neuroscience. Committee members discussed how the state can further support the partnership through investment, delegation visits, education, innovation hubs, and ensuring Armenian-owned businesses are not excluded from supplier diversity and anti-discrimination protections.
FL
Florida 2025 Regular Session
January 15, 2025 - 03:30 PM
Transcript Highlights:
- Combating illegal immigration in our state through Operation Vigilant Century, combating illegal immigration
- Over a 60-day period alone, we provided 375 days of manpower, combating illegal immigration and disaster
- immigration issues that we contend with as a department.
- They have to dedicate staff and time to illegal immigrants who themselves cannot provide compensation
- They have to dedicate staff and time to illegal immigrants who themselves cannot provide compensation
Summary:
The Transportation and Economic Development Budget Subcommittee met to organize for the session, take roll, and hear introductory remarks from members and agency heads. Members briefly introduced themselves and their districts, with several noting transportation, economic development, emergency response, military, and hurricane recovery issues in their areas. Chair Shove then outlined the subcommittee’s jurisdiction and current-year budget, noting a total of about $20.3 billion, with most funding coming from trust funds and only a small share from general revenue. The committee also heard that upcoming meetings would include presentations from major agencies in the subcommittee’s purview.
The first agency presentation was from the Department of Military Affairs and the Florida National Guard. Major General John Haas described the Guard’s three missions—supporting national security, responding to state emergencies, and adding value to the state—and highlighted deployments for hurricanes, border security support, and ongoing support to the Department of Corrections. He emphasized that the Guard is understrength relative to Florida’s size and demand, said recruiting is strong, and identified force structure growth as the main challenge. Members asked about aircraft, funding sources, and recruiting; Haas explained the Guard’s helicopter and fixed-wing fleet, said aircraft purchases are funded through legislative appropriations, and reported strong interest in the Florida State Guard’s recruiting pipeline.
Executive Director Mark Thieme then described the Florida State Guard’s expansion into air, ground, and maritime capabilities, including Black Hawks, boats, drones, canine search-and-rescue teams, and ground support units. He said the agency supported immigration enforcement and hurricane response, and asked for continued legislative support to expand aviation, maritime, and medical capabilities. Members praised the Guard’s disaster response work and asked about aircraft, funding, and staffing. Secretary Cord Byrd of the Department of State followed, focusing on election administration, election security, the SunBiz and voter registration IT systems, arts and culture, corporations, libraries, and historical resources. He said Florida’s election system remains a national model, reported two prosecutions for non-citizen voting, and discussed modernization needs for legacy IT systems. The committee also asked about voter lookup tools, password privacy for SunBiz, and arts funding vetoes.
Secretary Alex Kelly of the Department of Commerce described the agency’s broad portfolio, including workforce, economic, community, and international commerce functions, plus housing recovery, broadband, small business support, rural infrastructure, defense-community grants, and law enforcement recruitment bonuses. He said access to capital is the biggest barrier for small businesses and noted ongoing work with CareerSource, the Department of Corrections, and other partners on workforce and reentry. Secretary Jared Perdue of the Department of Transportation then outlined FDOT’s record budget and five-year work program, emphasizing emergency response, preservation and maintenance, safety, and major investments in roads, ports, airports, transit, and spaceport infrastructure. He said the department has removed millions of cubic yards of storm debris, is ahead of schedule on the Moving Florida Forward initiative, and faces a large unfunded project backlog. Members asked about supply chain issues, project priorities, and workforce needs, and Perdue said FDOT is open to collaboration on recruitment and retention.
CA
Transcript Highlights:
- Jackie Gonzalez from Immigrant Defense Advocates.
- Jackie Gonzalez, immigrant defense advocate, proud co-sponsor and support. Thank you.
- I was raised by immigrant parents, and from the ages of 1 to 8 I lived in the immigrant housing center
- Yet across the country, inside private immigration detention centers,...
- Khan, thank you for your very personal testimony as an immigrant.
Committee:
House Judiciary
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Committee on Jobs and Economic Development - 03/10/25
Jobs and Economic Development
Transcript Highlights:
- The Institute helped new Americans, refugees, and immigrants integrate into our community.
- The Institute helped new Americans, refugees, and immigrants integrate into our community.
- </c><00:07:47.759><c> that</c> report that they did on immigration that report that they did on immigration
- <00:47:42.200><c> throughout</c> immigrants throughout immigrants throughout Minnesota<00:47:44.160><
- ADS was established in 2008 by Twin Cities African immigrant community leaders.
Committee:
Senate Jobs and Economic Development
MA
Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session
Status of Persons with Disabilities Jan 29th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- a point on your statements about changes in federal policy and future advocacy with the loss of immigrant
- As all of us mentioned in this call, immigration is definitely a huge focus point right now.
- As all of us mentioned in this call, immigration is definitely a huge focus point right now.
- And we promise not to push for any special legislation to have, you know, Armenian immigration increase
- Almost all of the people in their cohorts were Haitian immigrants, and now they're all going away.
Summary:
The Workforce Support Subcommittee of the Status of Persons with Disabilities met, approved prior minutes, and heard a presentation from the Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers (ADDP) on its 2025 workforce metrics survey. ADDP described its membership and the survey’s scope, which covers community-based services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and brain injuries. The survey had strong participation, with 102 of 132 members responding, and this year included new questions on rising health insurance costs.
ADDP reported that workforce conditions have improved for a third consecutive year, with the overall vacancy rate falling from 19% in 2024 to 15% in 2025, and vacancy declines across several program areas. However, vacancies remain high in key roles such as licensed practical nurses and clinicians, nearly 4,000 positions remain unfilled, and about 1,800 people are still waiting for day services. Providers also reported major health insurance premium increases, which they said make it harder to offer competitive wages and benefits and affect recruitment and retention. Committee members discussed the impact of federal immigration policy, workforce shortages, and the need to maintain recent gains in staffing.
The subcommittee then elected Rachel Caprillion and Leo Sarkisian as co-chairs by vote. Members discussed possible topics and guests for the next meeting, including training, turnover, waiting lists, direct support professional pipelines, apprenticeships, and possible speakers from state agencies, advocacy organizations, other states, and workforce programs such as JVS. The meeting ended with a motion to adjourn.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Floor Session Jun 15th, 2026
California House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Meanwhile, this budget protects and expands services for illegal immigrants.
- A hundred million more for illegal immigrant legal services, $11 billion for illegal immigrant health
- Historic investments in immigrant resource centers at our schools, again... ...investments.
- The $100 million that we're investing into our immigrant legal system.
- This amendment would not eliminate all health care coverage for illegal immigrants.
Summary:
The Assembly convened, initially lacked a quorum, and then completed the roll call, prayer, and pledge. Members observed a moment of silence for the fatal B-52 crash at Edwards Air Force Base in Assemblymember Lackey’s district. The body then handled a series of procedural motions, including re-referrals of numerous Senate bills to different committees, suspending rules for committee notices, and taking up the budget bill, AB 109, without reference to file for concurrence in Senate amendments.
Debate on AB 109, the 2026 budget act, centered on competing views of the state’s fiscal condition and policy priorities. Supporters said the budget balances the current and next year’s budget, reduces the structural deficit, builds reserves, protects health care, schools, housing, food assistance, and other safety-net programs, and responds to federal cuts under H.R. 1. Opponents argued the budget increases taxes and costs, shortchanges schools, underfunds Proposition 36, relies on gimmicks, and does not adequately address public safety, cost of living, or long-term sustainability. Several members also highlighted specific provisions such as hospital support, Medi-Cal and IHSS protections, child care, immigrant legal services, prison closure, and funding for courts and victim services.
A motion by Assemblymember DeMaio to return AB 109 to the Senate failed on a roll call vote, 13 ayes to 45 noes. The Assembly then voted on concurrence in the Senate amendments to AB 109; the measure passed, and the Senate amendments were concurred in without objection, with immediate transmittal to the Governor. Afterward, the Assembly moved to the daily file and took up SCR 89, a resolution affirming diversity, equity, and inclusion. Supporters from several caucuses framed DEI as a core California value and a response to federal attacks, while opponents criticized DEI as divisive. The transcript ends during debate on SCR 89, before any final vote is shown.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Floor Session Jun 15th, 2026
California House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Meanwhile, this budget protects and expands services for illegal immigrants.
- Assembly Member Tangipa: A hundred million more for illegal immigrant legal services, $11 billion for
- illegal immigrant health care, while they blocked even a modest increase in the monthly fee from $30
- The $100 million that we're investing into our immigrant legal system.
- This amendment would not eliminate all health care coverage for illegal immigrants.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Select Committee on Latina Inequities Aug 5th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- A Latina immigrant navigating language access, a Black mother navigating implicit bias in a delivery
- First, most impacted victims were Hispanic Latino immigrant women.
- Attacks on reproductive health care that disproportionately harm Latina and immigrant communities...
- for immigrant women and their families.
- Since June 2025, nearly a quarter million undocumented immigrants have fallen off of Medi-Cal.
Summary:
The hearing of the Select Committee on Latina Inequities opened with remarks framing the discussion around reproductive and maternal health disparities affecting Latina, Black, and Indigenous women in California. Members emphasized the need to connect state data with lived experience, and the committee heard historical context on coercive sterilization, language access, and the ways immigration status, poverty, and racism continue to shape reproductive health care. The first panel featured Clarissa Ramirez of California Latinas for Reproductive Justice, Sophia Pedrosa of Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, and Kim Robinson of Black Women for Wellness, who described reproductive justice principles, the legacy of eugenics and forced sterilization, community education efforts, promotoras, and the importance of culturally and linguistically responsive care. They also raised concerns about federal funding cuts, fear related to ICE and public charge, and the loss of education and outreach programs that support patients and families.
The second part of the hearing focused on maternal health. Matt Green of the California Department of Public Health described persistent racial disparities, including Black birthing people being three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women, and outlined state efforts such as the Black Infant Health Program, the Perinatal Equity Initiative, the Centering Black Mothers in California report, and a new Black birth equity action plan. Chris Esgera of the Department of Health Care Services explained the state’s birthing care pathway, postpartum care pathway, and Transforming Maternal Health model, including policy changes to support doulas, community health workers, transitional care, and postpartum coverage. He said the department is working through policy updates and payment reforms, with Medi-Cal coverage for pregnant people and 12 months postpartum remaining protected.
The final panel included Dr. Nicole Economo and Dr. Kelly McHugh of ACOG, who discussed provider education, anti-racism and implicit bias training, and the need for quality improvement projects focused on closing equity gaps at individual hospitals. They highlighted tools such as the CLEAR Initiative, the Elevate Toolkit, and use of CMQCC data to track outcomes by race and ethnicity. Across the hearing, members repeatedly stressed that community-led solutions, sustained funding, better data, and accountability are needed to reduce preventable maternal deaths and improve reproductive health outcomes. No formal votes or bill actions were taken during the hearing, though several policy priorities and ongoing legislative efforts were referenced for future consideration.
CA
Transcript Highlights:
- My name is Monica Madrid on behalf of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights.
- On April 1st, 74,000 legally present humanitarian immigrants will begin to lose CalFresh benefits.
- We also oppose the implementation of H.R. 1 work requirements on our immigrant population.
- Anielli Martin with the California Immigrant Policy Center.
- Hi, Chloe Armosillo with the California Immigrant Policy Center.
Committee:
House Budget
NY
New York 2025-2026 Regular Session
New York State Senate Session - 03/16/2026
New York Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- AMONG THEM WAS ANNIE MOORE OF, COULD, IRELAND, WHO IS THE VERY FIRST IMMIGRANT ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD
- I was born in Chicago to Depression-era immigrant parents who left small farms.
- The parallels to today’s immigration battles are absolutely uncanny.
- I WAS BORN IN CHICAGO TO DEPRESSION-ERA IMMIGRANT PARENTS WHO LEFT SMALL FARMS.
- THE PARALLELS TO TODAY'S IMMIGRATION BATTLES ARE ABSOLUTELY UNCAN ANY.
Summary:
The Senate met on March 13, 2026, approved the prior day’s journal, received a message discharging Assembly Bill 2330 from committee and substituting identical Senate Bill 5843, and welcomed visiting delegations from Connecticut. The chamber also adopted privileged resolution J.1753, honoring Saint Patrick and Irish Americans and memorializing the Governor to proclaim March 2026 as Irish American Heritage Month. Senators Kavanagh and Fahy spoke in support, emphasizing Irish heritage, immigration, public service, and the St. Patrick’s Day tradition; the resolution was adopted and opened for co-sponsorship.
The Senate then acted on a series of bills on the calendar. Measures passed included bills by Senators Hinchey, Comrie, Skoufis, Stavisky, Sanders, Kavanagh, Gianaris, Cleare, and others, with several receiving unanimous support and a few drawing recorded negative votes. Senator Fernandez’s education bill related to placing opioid antagonists with AEDs and first aid kits in schools passed 60-1 after supportive remarks from Senators Oberacker and Fernandez. A bill authorizing a study on lithium-ion battery fires also passed unanimously, with Senators Borrello and Weik explaining affirmative votes while urging caution about electric bus mandates.
The most debated item was Calendar 446, Senator May’s bill directing the Department of Economic Development to move the Central New York Welcome Center from Destiny USA to the Equal Rights Heritage Center in Auburn. Senator Walczyk questioned the move’s cost, location, visitor traffic, and local support, arguing Destiny USA was the better site; Senator May responded that the state had built the Auburn facility and should provide sustainable operating support. The bill passed 47-15. The Senate then completed the controversial calendar and adjourned until Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.
AZ
Transcript Highlights:
- SB 1342, immigration, government agencies, prohibited acts. Military Affairs and Border Security.
- SB 1342, immigration, government agencies, prohibited acts. Military Affairs and Border Security.
- Since September, the Department of Homeland Security has shot 12 people during immigration enforcement
- SB 1375, immigration courts, hospitals, schools, daycares, Military Affairs and Border Security.
- SB 1375, immigration courts, hospitals, schools, daycares. Military affairs and board security.
Summary:
The Arizona Senate convened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, attendance, and approval of the journal. The chamber then recognized several guest groups and proclamations, including Alzheimer’s Association advocates, Arizona Society of CPAs members, the Arizona Airports Association, and students from Onyose Day Academy. A proclamation was read declaring January 26, 2006, as Arizona Aviation Day, highlighting the economic and public-safety importance of Arizona’s aviation sector and its airports.
The bulk of the meeting consisted of points of personal privilege and floor statements, many focused on condemning recent deaths and injuries involving federal immigration enforcement actions in Arizona and other states. Senators called for investigations, transparency, due process, and an end to what they described as excessive force and warrantless enforcement. One senator also read a resolution supporting human rights and the people of Iran, condemning state violence and supporting secular protections and international accountability.
The chamber also handled routine business, including gubernatorial nominations, which were referred to the appropriate committees, and the introduction and first reading of numerous bills and resolutions covering topics such as taxes, education, immigration, elections, health care, water, labor, housing, firearms, and appropriations. After committee announcements, the Senate adopted a motion to adjourn and recessed/adjourned until Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 1:15 p.m.
AZ
Transcript Highlights:
- Blessed are the immigrants who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
- Blessed are the meek immigrants, for they shall inherit the earth.
- Blessed are the merciful immigrants, for they shall receive mercy.
- Blessed are the immigrants who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
- It will create harm to immigrant communities.
MD
Transcript Highlights:
- . >> House Bill 444, Public Safety, Immigration Enforcement Agreements Prohibition.
- So, I think whether you have concerns about what's happening with immigration policy or you like 287(
- So, I think whether you have concerns about what's happening with immigration policy or you like 287(
- convicted of stabbing illegal immigrant convicted of stabbing is<00:09:22.320><c> released."
- outlets, there were 81 immigration outlets, there were 81 immigration detainers<00:20:25.360><c> uh</
CA
Transcript Highlights:
- immigration enforcement at schools.
- Moreover, AB 49 does not hinder the federal government. from enforcing its immigration laws.
- of immigrant families.
- I know there's a great deal of fear regarding immigration at this moment, but why is there fear?
- It said nothing about hindering immigration enforcement.
Committee:
House Education
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Floor Session May 19th, 2025
California House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- That amendment would have said no more illegal immigrants should be given free taxpayer funded health
- They serve everyone, no matter their insurance, income, or immigration. status, these clinics rely on
- Today we see those same tired arguments resurfacing, this time targeting immigrants. immigrant communities
- Are citizens, regardless of their immigration status, or their parents.
- But we also know the strength and power of diversity. the incredible contributions of immigrants and
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Subcommittee No. 4 on State Administration and General Government Apr 16th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- For example, Immigrants Rising and Public Counsel are new recipients of TAP funding this year.
- My name is Daniel Rodriguez with Immigrants Rising, a proud co-lead of the Economic Mobility for All
- But for immigrant entrepreneurs, these pressures are compounded by lack of traditional banking access
- In recent years, Latino and immigrant entrepreneurs have started new businesses at twice the rate of
- Show your support for immigrant workers and entrepreneurs and renew SEED 4.0. Thank you. Thank you.
Summary:
The subcommittee heard an informational update from the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development on the state’s Jobs First economic development strategy and related budget requests. Go-Biz described its regional planning process, priority sectors such as ag-tech, space defense, life sciences, and semiconductors, and requests including an extension of the CalCompetes tax credit, support for export promotion, additional film commission staff, innovation and emerging technology capacity, and a California brand campaign. Members questioned the campaign’s purpose, with some supporting efforts to counter misinformation about California and others warning it should not obscure regulatory and business-climate concerns. Go-Biz said the campaign would be nationally focused, could include business attraction efforts, and was intended to complement—not replace—policy work on permitting and workforce development. The item was informational only.
The committee then heard from the California Office of the Small Business Advocate on the California RISE program, the Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund, and the Technical Assistance Program/Capital Infusion Program. CalOSBA reported that California RISE’s first round awarded $16.9 million to 61 employment social enterprises, which collectively increased revenue, secured contracts, and employed thousands of people facing barriers to work; a second round is being launched with a new administrator and expanded services. For the performing arts payroll fund, the office said all 100 awardees had been paid, but demand far exceeded available funding, and the program was oversubscribed within days. California for the Arts testified that the sector remains fragile after COVID and urged statutory changes to simplify eligibility and stretch dollars further. SBDC representatives described TAP/SIP as a statewide network supporting small businesses, capital access, and disaster recovery, emphasizing their role in underserved communities and the leverage of federal matching funds.
Committee members focused on whether these programs produce durable outcomes and reach smaller or disadvantaged businesses. Questions centered on long-term job retention in California RISE, outreach to ethnic and community media in the civic media program, and whether TAP/SIP are accessible to entrepreneurs with limited capital or capacity. CalOSBA and its partners said they rely heavily on local community organizations for outreach, provide one-on-one counseling and training, and are working to collect more longitudinal data. The committee also discussed the film and television tax credit program, for which Go-Biz requested funding for three permanent positions and ongoing program support. Film Commission staff said the expanded program is tracking demographic and career-pathway data, with most productions opting into new diversity provisions, and that a formal report to the Legislature is expected in 2027. The item concluded without a vote, as the hearing was for oversight and budget discussion.