February 20, 2025
A group of nearly 90 business and civic leaders from the Cali-Baja region traveled to the state capital last week to advocate for legislation that will benefit businesses and help advance regional priorities during the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce’s annual Leadership Delegation to Sacramento. This group marked the largest delegation in Chamber history to the state capital.
“The Chamber is committed to making sure San Diego’s voice is heard and that our region remains central to the key issues being addressed by state leaders,” said Jessica Anderson, San Diego Regional Chamber Interim President & CEO. “This trip proved our collective voice is not only at the table but is instrumental in key decision-making. Our delegation, representing a diverse range of industries, plays a vital role in helping California’s elected officials understand the real impact of their decisions on our businesses and community.”
Attendees included several local elected officials from both sides of the aisle and border, including County Supervisors Joel Anderson and Monica Montgomery Steppe, Tijuana City Councilmember Pablo Yanez, San Diego City Councilmembers Stephen Whitburn and Marni von Wilpert, and Solana Beach Mayor Lisa Heebner.
“The San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce’s annual Sacramento trip is a great opportunity to advocate for our region’s priorities and collaborate with state leaders on our most pressing issues,” said San Diego City Councilmember Marni von Wilpert. “I welcome every opportunity to join our business and civic leaders in working toward a more prosperous future for San Diego.”
The two-day agenda covered a range of priorities important to business and job growth in the San Diego region, such as artificial intelligence, housing, healthcare, retail theft & public safety, small business support, and transportation.
“It was an honor to join the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce in Sacramento to advocate for policies and critical funding that support our region’s businesses, neighborhoods and economic growth,” said San Diego City Council Councilmember Stephen Whitburn. “I was especially proud to preside over an important panel on business development in California, where we discussed key opportunities to foster innovation, and strengthen our local economy. San Diego’s business community is a driving force behind our city’s success, and I remain committed to ensuring they have the resources and support needed to thrive.”
Key takeaways from the trip include:
Artificial Intelligence – AI is set to transform industries such as agriculture, healthcare, and entertainment, playing a critical role in innovation and economic growth. However, overregulating AI could cost California an estimated $3B, making it a key policy issue as state leaders consider potential regulations. With San Diego emerging as an up-and-coming AI hub and a leader in the tech and innovation sector, the region is well-positioned to shape the conversation on AI’s future.
PAGA Reform Implementation– A major victory from last year’s PAGA deal is projected savings of $7-8B for businesses across California. This long-awaited reform remains a key Chamber priority, ensuring a fairer system for both employers and workers.
Healthcare – The state of healthcare remains a significant concern, with Assemblymember Weber Pierson prioritizing increased access, medical reimbursement rates, and implementing Prop 35. However, funding remains a challenge, as a potential reduction in federal “Obamacare” support could result in a $17B budget hit for California.
Housing – With renters in the legislature doubling from five to ten members, housing remains a major priority. Assemblymember Boerner’s AB 87 will address short-term rentals and the density bonus, while Assemblymember Ward is leading efforts on building standards, mandatory city plan checks, fire-resistant yet affordable housing models, and senior housing support. Last year, 90 housing bills were processed in the legislature, highlighting the urgency of the issue.
Transportation and Electrification – The transition to zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) and the regulation of autonomous vehicles remain key transportation priorities. Since 2015, the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) has invested $11B in ZEV initiatives, with continued funding for freight programs that support the transition to cleaner transportation. The LOSSAN corridor remains a critical investment priority, with $550M allocated since 2022, though further funding is needed to secure long-term sustainability. The Chamber continues to partner with CalSTA as this is the second delegation trip in a row that they have joined.
Delegates met with legislators, agency officials, and policy influencers who are at the forefront of the Chamber’s most watched issues, including:
• Assemblymembers David Alvarez, Tasha Boerner, Laurie Davis, Darshana Patel, Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson, David Tangipa, and Chris Ward
• Senators Catherine Blakespear and Brian Jones
• Secretary Toks Omishakin, California State of Transportation Agency
• Richard Figueroa, Deputy Cabinet Secretary, State of California
• Daniel Conway, Vice President, Government Relations, California Grocers’ Association
• Jonathan Raven, Assistant Chief Executive Officer, California District Attorneys Association
• Dustin Corcoran, Chief Executive Officer, California Medical Association
• Skyler Wonnacott, Senior Director of Government Affairs, California Business Properties Association
• Nate Haderlie, Senior Account Executive, Kabateck Strategies, Representing the “Alliance to Preserve California’s Technology & Innovation Economy”