The White House just recognized the impact of burdensome CEQA regulations in delaying California's housing progress, featuring insights from our own board member, Jennifer Hernandez. This acknowledgment and the Harris housing plan are big wins, showing our movement to build more housing is going national. Plus, don’t miss our latest updates on Governor Newsom’s wildfire and opioid initiatives, a new jobs report, and California’s latest housing data. But first…

REMEMBER THIS MOMENT

Just after the 21 minute mark of Vice President Kamala Harris’s nomination acceptance speech, something astonishing happened. As the Veep began to launch into the time-honored “policy laundry list” portion of her speech, a new priority emerged atop the hierarchy: “end America’s housing shortage.” What was truly remarkable about the statement was that it came before one of the most sacred policy objectives in Democratic politics: protecting Social Security and Medicare. Maybe we’re reading too much into the order of operations here, but we believe it’s meaningful that the Democratic presidential nominee has elevated housing production in such an important and high-profile way, particularly on the back of President Obama’s YIMBYesque plea to cut red tape and regulation earlier in the convention.

🤫 Everything you should know

- The White House just released a comprehensive report on housing affordability, featuring our very own board member and policy wiz, Jennifer Hernandez! The report highlights how burdensome CEQA regulations blocked nearly half of all proposed housing units in California in 2020 alone—delaying desperately needed homes for years. This acknowledgment from the Biden-Harris Administration shows that housing affordability is not just a California issue. The crisis is national, and while California often lags in many metrics, thanks to NCC partners like Jennifer Hernandez, our ideas are finally gaining the traction they deserve. White House

- California’s housing report card is in, and it’s a mixed bag. While single-family home construction is booming, apartment construction has hit historically low levels. With multifamily permits at a 12-year low, California is failing its biggest test. The NCC supports an all-of-the-above housing strategy, which means single family homes, ADUs, multi-family housing and mixed use so we can bridge the gap and build the two million units California needs to meet demands. There’s a silver bullet solution to bringing down the cost of housing: build. When we don’t build enough, everyone feels the squeeze. It’s time to get construction back on track. San Diego Tribune

- A groundbreaking deal among tech giants, news publishers, and state officials promises a fresh boost for local journalism without new taxes. This deal averts legislation that would require tech companies to share ad revenues, opting instead for a fund and an AI Innovation Accelerator to enhance newsrooms technologically and financially. The initiative includes substantial commitments from major players like Google and tasks the UC Berkeley School of Journalism with administering the funds, aimed at transforming the landscape of local news. Critics argue for greater transparency and broader solutions to support journalism's future, emphasizing the drastic need amid declining news outlets and participation. They highlight a persistent gap in support from other major tech companies, underscoring the challenges ahead in sustaining diverse and robust journalism in California. KQED

Interview with Roberto C. Arnold and Diana Ordaz-Cherrington of the Multicultural Business Alliance

Meet the Multicultural Business Alliance, a New California Coalition partner, and driver of economic success in Southern California. Roberto C. Arnold and Diana Ordaz-Cherrington aim to provide resources and experience to turn entrepreneurs into business owners.

1. What do you love most about California?

Diana: As president of the Multicultural Business Alliance, what I love most about California is our unparalleled diversity. From people to weather, this diversity of cultures, religions, and backgrounds makes it a unique workspace that fosters creative growth and opportunity.

Roberto: I echo Diana’s sentiments. California's melting pot of cultures, ideas, and innovations provides a rich environment for businesses to thrive. The diverse population brings unique perspectives and experiences, fostering creativity, collaboration, and a sense of community that is truly inspiring.

2. What advice do you have for people who love California but are struggling financially and considering moving out of state?

Roberto: My advice is to carefully evaluate your situation and explore all available options before deciding to move out of state. California offers numerous resources for entrepreneurs, including grants, loans, mentorship programs, and business development centers. Leveraging these resources can provide the support needed to overcome challenges. Reflect on your long-term goals and how California's opportunities align with your vision of the future.

Diana: The more we foster and build our communities, the easier it will be to say, "I not only want to stay here, but I need to stay here." Moving out of state has its own set of challenges, and California’s unique cultural tapestry and resources are irreplaceable. Reach out for help and use the tools around you — there’s a lot of support available.

3. How is the Multicultural Business Alliance serving underrepresented entrepreneurs in Southern California?

Diana: We support underrepresented entrepreneurs by fostering an inclusive business environment. We offer education through workshops on essential business skills such as financial management, marketing, and legal compliance. We also provide access to capital and resources, networking and community building, and advocacy and policy support.

Roberto: We also assist nonprofit organizations by helping them navigate the unique aspects of being a nonprofit, including funding acquisition, leadership, and board governance. This support helps them better serve their communities and ensures that they are effective leaders.

4. Why is it critical to focus on multicultural business owners when thinking about California's economic growth?

Roberto: Focusing on multicultural business owners harnesses the state’s rich diversity, fostering innovation and expanding market reach. Supporting multicultural businesses promotes economic growth, inclusivity, and shared prosperity, which strengthens the state’s overall economic resilience.

Diana: It ensures a level playing field where no one is left behind. Education and resource availability are crucial to our mission. Empowering multicultural entrepreneurs boosts job creation, community development, and solidifies California’s position as a global economic leader.

Gov. Newsom Watch

Governor Newsom is doubling down on two of NCC's top priorities: wildfire prevention and tackling the opioid scourge that fuels the homelessness crisis. This week, his office announced the $90.8 million funding for 94 wildfire prevention projects to protect vulnerable communities, while also spotlighting California’s aggressive efforts against the opioid epidemic on National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day. These moves are part of a broader strategy to keep Californians safe, healthy, and resilient — because when it comes to our state’s future, there’s no room for half measures.

Jobs Report

California is on a roll, adding 21,100 jobs in July alone, snagging nearly 20% of the nation's new positions. This marks the 51st straight month of job growth, a streak as hot as the state’s summer. While California’s fast food industry hit a record high, the state’s overall employment landscape continues to thrive. Historically, California has consistently led the nation in job creation, and with its dominance in sectors like AI, tech, and agriculture, the Golden State shows no signs of slowing down. Sierra Sun Times

White House Puts CEQA on Notice

“Nearly half of all proposed housing units were attempted to be blocked by environmental lawsuits in California.” This state was highlighted in the housing plan released by the Biden-Harris Administration. Glad to see this regulatory roadblock get the attention it deserves so we can reform CEQA and build the housing our state needs.

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