Press Release: Assembly Bill 258 Advances To The Senate

SACRAMENTO, CALIF. (June 2, 2023) — The California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce’s (CalAsian Chamber) co-sponsored bill, Assembly Bill (AB) 258 (Reyes), in partnership with the California African American and Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, has passed out of the Assembly Floor without a single “no” vote and is headed to the Senate.

AB 258 aims to make necessary improvements to support minority-owned businesses and make state resources more accessible for the communities that need it most. Many small businesses in California who are looking to partner with the state do not have the technical expertise to navigate the necessary state processes such as access to technical assistance, the procurement process and locating grants. Democratizing and illuminating state processes will give small businesses more opportunities to grow and ensure public resources are reaching are reaching the hardest hit communities.

“I introduced this legislation after hearing from Inland Empire small businesses about how a state-administered small business portal could best support them, and I am grateful that my Assembly colleagues throughout California agree on its value,” said Reyes. “I thank the California Asian Pacific, African American and Hispanic Chambers of Commerce for co-sponsoring this bill, as their support proves that its aims truly reflect California’s diversity and goals. With AB 258, small businesses will be better equipped to find state resources and navigate state processes, providing them with more growth opportunities. By focusing on our most impacted communities of minorities, women and veterans, this bill can stimulate California’s entire economy.”

The President & CEO of the CalAsian Chamber, Pat Fong Kushida, noted the impact this bill would make for small businesses across the state.

“Small business owners play a critical role in our economy and society, yet they face significant barriers when trying to access state resources and programs,” Kushida said. “With AB 258, we hope to close this accessibility gap and give small businesses equal opportunities to thrive.”

Supporters of the bill can join the CalAsian Chamber’s growing coalition of small business advocates by emailing Andrea Cao, Director of Public Policy, at acao@calasiancc.org, with first and last name, job title, organization name and logo.