Lake County Chamber of Commerce

Tax Relief For Homeowners? (1/27/2012)

Assemblymember Jim Silva Seeks Tax Relief For Homeowners; Says Mello-Roos Fees Should Be Tax Deductible
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 26, 2012
Anthony Tannehill (916) 319-2067

SACRAMENTO, CA - Today in Sacramento, Assemblymember Jim Silva (R -Huntington Beach) introduced legislation that would ease some of the tax burden of owning or buying property.
Assembly Bill 1552 codifies Mello-Roos fees as tax deductible. Since 1982, Mello-Roos fees have been used by some neighborhood communities as a way to fund projects without using traditional property taxes, which are limited by Proposition 13.
Recently, the Franchise Tax Board introduced a campaign to make income tax filings and deductions more complicated by seeking to eliminate a property owner's ability to deduct local benefit taxes for maintenance or other repairs, a common u se of Mello-Roos fees. This new policy will affect millions of homeowners across California and will cumulatively increase property taxes by as much as $140 million.
The state is always looking for ways to capture more and more taxpayer money and this is a new low. By going after Mello-Roos fees, the state is actually taxing a tax. It is another way to go after Californians' wallets and must be stopped, Silva said.
Jon Coupal, president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers' Association, commented, In the middle of the worst foreclosure crisis in 70 years, we must do everything possible to ensure homeowners retain the property tax deductions they've been receiving for the last 30 years. I support AB 1552 and applaud Assemblyman Silva for stepping up and fighting this blatant money grab.
I
Assemblyman Jim Silva represents the 67th Assembly District, which includes the communities of Anaheim, Cypress, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, La Palma, Los Alamitos, Rossmoor, Seal Beach, Stanton, Sunset Beach and Westminster.

Counterfit $100 Circulating in Lake County (1/19/2012)

Please contact the local law enforcement authority in your area. Also, the Lake County District Attorney if someone has passed such a bill.

CalChamber: Draft ‘Green Chemistry' Rules Still Unworkable, (1/17/2012)

CalChamber: Draft Green Chemistry Rules Still Unworkable, Counter to Program Intent

(January 17, 2012) The latest informal draft regulations that deal with chemicals in consumer products create an uncertain regulatory environment that makes investing, innovating and doing business in California substantially riskier.

In comments to the state Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), the California Chamber of Commerce acknowledged some improvements from previous drafts, but reiterated concerns with the broad-reaching impact of these regulations on businesses.
A fundamental problem with the draft regulations is that DTSC retains so much discretionary power that it virtually eliminates any certainty that a business might have in terms of regulatory treatment, the CalChamber noted.

Chemicals of Concern
The informal draft for the Safer Consumer Product Alternatives regulations was released October 31, 2011.
The regulations call for an immediate list of Chemicals of Concern, which the department estimates will include approximately 3,000 chemicals.

The CalChamber pointed out that there is no objective process for prioritizing chemicals to be regulated. The DTSC can decide on a case-by-case basis whether a product exhibiting only trace levels of a chemical of concern still may be subject to regulation.
Moreover, the draft rule requires companies to establish, maintain and fund an end-of-life product stewardship program for a product identified as a hazardous waste in California.

Small Business Impact

Citing the integral role small businesses play in moving the state toward economic recovery, the CalChamber noted that the department can mitigate the impact of the regulations on smaller operations. Examples include extending timelines or providing flexibility and other accommodations needed for smaller firms to compete with their larger counterparts.
The CalChamber also advised the department to proceed with caution and recognize the value of harmonizing the program with work previously done on chemical use regulation in the European Union and other states and countries.
The CalChamber urged the DTSC to work toward a process that is reasonable, workable and creates certainty for all businesses in the consumer product supply chain without jeopardizing health and environmental quality or creating greater burdens that will further delay the states economic recovery.
The DTSC is expected to release an updated draft later next month before issuing the final regulations later this year.

Staff Contact: Brenda M. Coleman

Yet Another Scam! (1/6/2012)

Be on the alert for supposed patrons who want to purchase art, etc. If you are suspicious of a possible customer passing a bad check, please contact your local law enforcement agency.

American Airlines Reports Fraudulent Emails Confirming Flights (12/5/2011)

NOTE: THE LAKE COUNTY CHAMBER RECEIVED ONE OF THESE FRAUDULENT EMAILS. See below the Verizon phishing email notice we received on December 6th:

If you received an email like the example below asking you to perform security-related changes to your account or attempting to collect your user name, password, email address or other personal information, you have received a fraudulent email. American Airlines will never send executable files as attachments, nor ask our customers for this type of personal information in email communications.
DO NOT click on any links, open any attachments, call phone numbers listed, or follow any instructions in these fraudulent emails including opening any type of attachments. Instead, delete all emails and attachments.
If you have clicked on any of the links in this fraudulent email, please take these steps:
Login to AA.com by entering www.aa.com. manually
Verify your mileage balance, email address, and physical address
Immediately change your password to help protect your account information If you see any discrepancies over the next day or two, please contact our AAdvantage Services Department at 1-800-882-8880. In most cases, attempts to obtain personal information begins with an unauthorized change of the victim's password, preventing the true account owner from logging in.
We deeply regret this inconvenience to you as an American Airlines customer. Your privacy and security is extremely important to us.

EXAMPLE EMAIL -
From: sales1@acshomeshow.com [mailto:sales1@acshomeshow.com]
Sent: Thursday, November 17, 2011 5:17 PM
To: AMessina
Subject: Re: Your Flight Order N590-5507130
Dear Customer,
FLIGHT ELECTRONIC NUMBER 8532856
DATE TIME / NOVEMBER 28, 2011, 11:17 PM
ARRIVING: NEW YORK JFK
TOTAL PRICE : 278.02 USD
Please download and print out your ticket here:
http://www.aa.com/flight-nyc/flightno36952281084a
Marie MATTHEWS,
American Airlines

VERIZON EMAIL LOOKS LIKE THIS AND HAS AN ATTACHMENT. DO NOT OPEN ATTACHMENT, BUT DO EMAIL A COPY OF THE TEXT OF THE EMAIL. SEND THE COPY OF THE EMAIL TO phishing@verizonwireless.com , It will look like the sample below:

Hello Dear!
Your current bill for your account is now available online in My Verizon
Total Balance Due: $0713.12

Keep in mind that payments and/or adjustments made to your account after your bill was generated will not be reflected in the amount shown above.
View all your recent bills in application materials.
Thank you for choosing Verizon Wireless.

Winter Internship and Career Fair at UC Davis (12/2/2011)

This event provides an excellent opportunity for your organization to become acquainted with our students in an informal setting where they can discuss internship, co-op, summer and career positions with your representatives. We expect over 1,500 enthusiastic students from all class levels to attend.
2011 - 12 Registration Fee Structure:
For-Profit Companies: $400
Government Agencies (Federal, State, County, City): $350
Non-Profit organizations:
Proof of 501 (C)(3) non profit status may be required. $100
UC Davis campus departments: $50
Other UC campus departments: $100
Each registration covers up to four representatives. Additional representatives will be charged $25 each. $25 each
Registration includes:
Recruiting space, including a table, chairs and a company sign.
Employer profile on-line for all students to access, with a direct link to your organization's web page.
Employer listing in our Fair Program Guide.
Complimentary Parking Permits for up to four (4) representatives.
Complimentary continental breakfast and lunch for up to four (4) representatives.
You can also increase visibility with available advertisements.
Advertisement space is available on the Jumbotrons 20 ft. color screens on the upper level of the Pavilion. Images need to be 208 x 160 pixels in .jpg, .jpeg, .bmp or .psd format. Jumbotron ads are competitively priced at $100
We also offer 2 x 2 in. advertisements for company logos in our fair guide. We will print and distribute approximately 2,000 guides before and at the fair. These advertisements are affordably priced at $125.
If you would like to take advantage of both of these services, we offer a discounted rate of $200.
Please send your camera-ready material to klbarnes@ucdavis.edu by Tuesday, January 31, 2012. If you have questions feel free to call me at 530.752.2011.

24th Annual Holiday Lighted Parade Viewed By Several Hundred (11/30/2011)

The Lake County Chamber of Commerce presents this parade each year and without the assistance of many volunteers, the Lakeport Police Department and Lakeport Public Works Department, it would not be possible.
Many thanks again to Mendo Mill Lumber for providing the announcers stage; to Paul Reading for his wonderful announcer skills; decoration of the stage was done by John Fulton and Dianna Hendrick, with assistance from two volunteers from Hilltop Recovery; parade Lineup Chair was Ginny Clinton, assisted by hubby Barry Clinton, Mary Heare Amodio, Tony Barthel, Kimberly Priscilla Boyd and Mike Gomes.
Parade Judges this year were Richard Persons, Executive Director for Lake County Fair, John Ross of Soper Reese Community Theater and Melissa Fulton, Lake County Chamber. Grand Marshall Santa Claus was transported to parade lineup by Lakeport Police and then carried in the parade by entry number two, Cobb Mountain Christmas by the Norris Family of Cobb.
Thank you to all our parade entries this year and its obvious the hours of preparation that were put forth to make them as beautiful as they were. Special recognition to the Corvettes of Lake County whose members were handing out free stuffed toys to children along the parade route! The Holiday Lighted Parade results this year are:
Sweepstakes Winner: Kelseyville Lumber
Floats Best of Division (Tie) RAD Construction and Cobb Mountain Christmas
Floats Commercial First Place RAD Construction
Second Place Mendo Mill Lumber Company
Third Place Sequoia Senior Solutions
Floats Other First Place Cobb Mountain Christmas
Vehicles Best of Division (Tie) Corvettes of Lake County Lake County
Model A Club
Vehicles/Clubs First Place (Tie) Corvettes of Lake County Lake County
Model A Club
Second Place Clear Lake Road Riders
Vehicles/Cars/Trucks/Tractors
First Place (Tie) Bron Falkenberg Pat Sperling
Second Place Kermit Knudson
Groups Best of Division Kelseyville Lumber
Groups/Commercial First Place Kelseyville Lumber
Second Place Alisia Mangas
Third Place Re-Bicycle
Groups/Organization First Place Evergreen Health Care
Second Place Mendo Lake Credit Union
Groups/Senior First Place Rocky Point Care Center
Thank you to the Lakeport Main Street Association and Downtown Merchants for their efforts to bring a Very Merry Main Street to the community. Congratulations to Lake County Chamber member Main Street Bicycles on their First Anniversary celebration. They will soon be expanding their space as they connect to the building next door, allowing them to better serve their customers.
Hospice Services of Lake County presented a very heart-warming program following the parade with caroling, candle lighting in commemoration of loved ones and the lighting of the Lakeport Christmas Tree. The Tree symbolizes both the Spirit of the Season and the Annual Light Up A Life Hospice Celebration. Through the efforts of the Lakeport Main Street Association, volunteer Cheryl Herrick and the Lakeport Rotary Club, many more lights were added to the tree this year.

California State Pensions (11/3/2011)

Less than a week after Gov. Jerry Brown unveiled his proposal to change the states employee retirement system, critics of public pensions unveiled two new plans to scale back worker benefits, with hopes of putting one of them on the November 2012 ballot.

The major obstacle for the groups initiative plans remains money. It would take upwards of $2 million to simply qualify a measure for the ballot, and thus far no donor has come forward to fund either of the pension proposals.

But the initiatives filed Wednesday by California Pension Reform, a group led by former state GOP Chairman Duf Sundheim and former Schwarzenegger finance director Mike Genest, help draw the battle lines for the pension debate for the 2012 legislative year.

FULL COVERAGE: California state pensions
Brown put down his marker last week, calling for a new mandatory 401(k)-style savings plan for new employees to supplement a scaled-back guaranteed pension. Brown also wants to raise the retirement age for most new workers to receive full benefits from 55 to 67.

The two potential initiatives filed with the attorney generals office Wednesday go further than Browns proposal, tackling benefits for existing workers as well as future hires. One of the proposals would shift most state workers to a 401(k)-style plan almost exclusively. The proposal also places caps on how much an employer can pay toward a workers retirement, and asks current workers to pay more of their own retirement than even Brown is asking.

Under the governors pension blueprint, employees would pay at least half of the cost for their own retirement. Labor unions pushed back against Browns proposal, saying it went too far, and are sure to oppose the new initiatives. But fear of a stronger pension measure on the November ballot could serve as political leverage for Brown as he tries to push his pension plan through the legislative process.

RELATED: Gov. Jerry Brown to unveil 12-point pension overhaul Villaraigosa puts teeth into his stand on pension funds Los Angeles pension board cuts its expected investment return.
-- Anthony York in Sacramento

‘Job Killer' Tag More Important Than Ever (10/13/2011)

From the CalChamber:
Subject: CalChamber News: Job Killer Tag More Important Than Ever to Legislators and Governor
Today, CalChamber released the newest installment of CalChamber News, highlighting the success of the longstanding job killer program.
The CalChamber job killer campaign carries more weight than ever during these tough economic times because, as Matt Rexroad, partner at Meridian Pacific, points out in the video, legislators don't want to be accused of not being on the side of jobs and the economy.
Moreover, the 2012 elections will be the first where candidates must run in the new citizens commission-drawn districts. The new districts, coupled with the top two open primary system, will produce more competitive general elections.
In the video, CalChamber President and CEO Allan Zaremberg explains that these factors will truly make a difference in how legislators view the bills they vote on because incumbents can be thrown out of office and must be responsive to the voters.
The Lake County Chamber encourages all local businesses to visit this site:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-l-lriqv94
Featured in video as reported by Kevin Riggs:
CalChamber President and CEO Allan Zaremberg
Fred Ruiz, Chairman Emeritus and Co-Founder of Ruiz Foods
Matt Rexroad, Partner, Meridian Pacific

Governor Brown's signature on SB 617 (10/7/2011)

Governor Signs Bill Requiring Economic Analysis of Regulations

(October 7, 2011) Governor Brown has signed into law a California Chamber of Commerce-supported bill that, among other things, requires a standard economic impact analysis for major regulations at the beginning of the regulatory process.

Governor Browns signature on SB 617 sends an important message to job creators that California is taking steps to improve our regulatory climate, said CalChamber President and CEO Allan Zaremberg. Regulatory overreach is often cited as a reason California is perceived as being hostile to business. While there is still work to be done, Governor Browns action on SB 617 will move us toward our goal of eliminating uncertainty.

SB 617 (Calderon; D-Montebello) will create more transparent rulemaking, will improve oversight of agencies and will encourage policymakers to implement the most cost-effective regulatory option. Currently, any evaluation of a proposed regulations fiscal impact comes at the end of the process and there is no uniform standard of analysis, if it is done at all. With SB 617 in place, agencies will be held to new standards that require a robust economic analysis of proposed major regulations.

Economic growth and prosperity depend on a predictable and rational regulatory climate. For more than two years, CalChamber has urged lawmakers to support a process that evaluates the impact of proposed regulations on the private sector similar to what is done for bills that impact the state budget. CalChamber believes SB 617 is an important first step toward comprehensive regulatory reform in California.
Staff Contact: Marc Burgat

Mt. Konocti's Wright Peak Trail Now Open (10/6/2011)

To Lake County Trails Enthusiasts!
We are pleased to announce that Mt. Konocti has opened to the public beginning Saturday Sept 24th! While there will not be an initial Grand Opening this year, the first day of public access was in conjunction with the Kelseyville Pear Festival held the same day. Kim Clymire, Director of Public Services, was at the Festival to talk about Mt. Konocti and to distribute the first hiking trail brochure in the Konocti Regional Trails System - the Wright Peak Summit Trail.
The Wright Peak Summit Trail is a 6+ mile round-trip hike from the Upper Parking Lot near the access gate on Konocti Road, with an approximate 1,600 ft elevation gain. The trail takes hikers along the main access road, past walnut and apple orchards, through an amazing Canyon Oak grove to the Mary Downen cabin, built in 1903. It then continues up to Wright Peak and the CDF Tower, with possible side trips to Howard Peak.
While currently available for access, another hiking trail brochure to Buckingham Peak will be launched in Spring 2012.
The park will open initially for day-use hiking only, with other uses by a Special Facility Use Permit, available from the Lake County Public Services Department. A Master Management Plan is being developed by County staff and a committee of volunteers that will help guide the operation and maintenance of the park.
Other opening regulations include:
Non-motorized day-use except for official authorized vehicles.
Absolutely no fires or smoking on the mountain.
The park will open for hiking only, with other uses such as equestrian, non-motorized mountain bikes, dogs on leash, and others possibly allowed under a special Facility Use Agreement (FUA).
The first section of the hiking trail passes through private property around Fowler's Orchard on an easement. Respecting the privacy of the homeowner by staying on the trail is paramount to preserving the public's right to access the park.
The park may be closed during high fire danger, severe winter weather or for other health and safety reasons.
Currently, the County is working on the following projects to ensure a smooth opening.
Cal Fire and the County Road Division Crews are grading the main access, Konocti Road up to Wright and Buckingham Peaks, and trimming brush back.
A hiking trail to circumvent the Fowler's walnut orchard has been built. This was required prior to opening, as a condition of the sale. We ask that all hikers please respect their privacy, and not trespass on private property, signs are being installed.
Waterless/vault composting restrooms will be ordered and hopefully installed prior to the rains. Benches, tables and additional signs will be installed in late fall or early spring.
The County has negotiated a five-year lease with the State for use of the Cal Fire Look Out Tower, located on Wright Peak, to be used for supervised recreational activities in exchange for maintenance. We will need volunteer docents, preferably trained in C.P.R. and First Aid, to supervise tower access.
During the initial lease period the County will work on legislation to extend the lease or have the State donate the tower to them.
Utilizing $60,000+ in donated acquisition funds, the County is in the process of purchasing another 47.5 acres of the Mazzola and Harbey properties where the road crosses their property; this will allow irrevocable public access and replace the existing easement agreement.
If you have any questions, wish to volunteer or need additional information; please feel free to contact the Lake County Department of Public Services at 262-1618.
More information will be available as needed on the County website at www.LakeCounty.com. Copies of the Wright Peak Summit Trail brochure will be online at www.KonoctiTrails.com beginning 9/24/11, as well as at the County Visitor Centers.
Thanks to all who have helped make this dream a reality,
Kim Clymire,
Now Retired Director of Public Services
County of Lake

Mendocino College-Lake Center Ground Breaking Set (9/23/2011)

The Mendocino College Board of Trustees recently approved Wright Contracting of Santa Rosa as the low bidder for construction of the new Lake Center.
The new college campus will be located on 31 acres at 2565 Parallel Drive in Lakeport, approximately one mile south of the current college center. According to Mark Rawitsch, Dean of the Lake Center, Construction will begin immediately so we can take advantage of any remaining good weather.
For more information about the Lake Center Groundbreaking Ceremony, please contact the Mendocino College Foundation at 707-467-1018.

Phase one plans call for buildings totaling approximately 15,000 sq. ft. which will include a central administrative building housing admissions, counseling, learning resources, meeting and gathering spaces, and a classroom configured to allow for community activities. Two other buildings included are the general classroom complex with five classrooms and a computer lab. Another classroom building will include teaching laboratories for science, music and art. All spaces are focused around a central student plaza area which takes advantage of the natural features of the site with views of the oak grove, adjacent hills and Mt. Konocti. Easy accessibility to the new site is from both the Lakeport Boulevard off-ramp to the north and the intersection at Highway 175 to the south. This first phase is expected to be completed by December of 2012.
The project is made possible by the passage of Measure W, a local bond measure which was passed in 2006 by the voters in Lake and Mendocino counties. Construction costs are estimated at approximately $10 million. Mike Adams directs the Measure W bond projects and has high praise for Wright Contracting, stating that They have been in business for 57 years, have an outstanding reputation and have completed five other projects for Mendocino College. Those projects include the Vocational/Technical and Physical Education buildings, Gymnasium, Athletic Field and the Visual and Performing Arts Center, all on the Ukiah Campus.
The newly formed Lake County Friends of Mendocino College, an affiliate organization of the Mendocino College Foundation, has partnered with Mendocino College to host a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, October 20, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. College staff, representatives of Wright Contracting and TLCD Architecture will be on hand at the ceremony and the public is invited to attend and hear more about this long awaited project. For more information about the Lake Center Groundbreaking Ceremony, please contact the Mendocino College Foundation at 707-467-1018.

'Job Killer' Bills Awaiting Action by Governor (9/12/2011)

(September 12, 2011) In the closing days of the legislative session, four California Chamber of Commerce-opposed job killer bills passed the Legislature.
One job killer passed the Legislature in late June and was vetoed by the Governor just a few days later.
The following bills await action by Governor Edmund G. Brown:
Costly Workplace Mandates

OPPOSE AB 22 (Mendoza; D-Artesia) Hampers Employment Decisions Unfairly limits private employers ability to use consumer credit reports for legitimate employment purposes, such as those positions who have direct and unsupervised access to any amount of cash and/or valuable non-financial assets. To Enrollment.
OPPOSE AB 1155 (Alejo; D-Watsonville) Erodes Workers Comp Reforms Increases costs and lawsuits in the workers' compensation system by eroding the apportionment provision that protects an employer from paying for disability that did not arise from work. To Enrollment.
Employee Benefit Mandates

OPPOSE AB 325 (B. Lowenthal; D-Long Beach) Unpaid Bereavement Leave Requires an employer to provide employees with up to three days of unpaid bereavement leave and elevates the significance of the right to bereavement leave to the same level as the right to be free from racial or gender discrimination and harassment, thereby adding to California businesses legal costs and responsibilities. To Enrollment.
Inflated Liability Costs

OPPOSE AB 559 (Swanson; D-Oakland) Undermines Judicial Discretion Unreasonably increases business litigation costs by limiting judicial discretion to reduce or deny exorbitant attorneys fees in fair employment and housing claims that should have been raised in a limited civil proceeding. To Enrollment.
Vetoed
Vetoed by the Governor on June 28 was:
SB 104 (Steinberg; D-Sacramento) This bill would have essentially eliminated a secret ballot election and replaced it with the submission of representation cards signed by more than 50 percent of the employees, and left employees susceptible to coercion and manipulation by labor organizations. CalChamber believes the current provisions of the Agricultural Labor Relations Act (ALRA) adequately protect the rights and interests of employees and employers, as well as unions.
The end-of-session status of other job killers is available at www.calchamber.com/jobkillers.
Action Needed
The CalChamber is urging members to contact the Governor and ask him to veto the job killer bills listed above.Sample letters are available at www.calchambervotes.com.
Staff Contact: Marc Burgat

Workers' Comp Victory for Employers (9/9/2011)

Court Ruling on Cost-of-Living Adjustments Is Workers Comp Victory for Employers
(September 8, 2011) California employers and insurers scored a victory in a recent California Supreme Court decision on annual cost-of-living adjustments for certain workers compensation claimants.
In the case of Christine Baker v. Workers Compensation Appeals Board and X.S., the court looked at how the Legislature intended cost-of-living adjustments to be calculated for total permanent disability and life pension payments.

The question before the court was whether a 2002 law required the total permanent disability and life pension payment cost-of-living adjustments to be calculated:
prospectively from January 1 following the year in which the worker first becomes entitled to receive benefits;
retroactively to January 1 following the year in which the worker is injured; or
retroactively to January 1, 2004 for every case regardless of the date of injury or the date the first benefit payment becomes due.

Supreme Court Ruling
The Supreme Court ruling agreed with a friend-of-the-court brief filed by the California Chamber of Commerce that the Legislature intended that cost-of-living adjustments be calculated and applied prospectively beginning on the January 1 following the date on which the injured worker first becomes entitled to receive and actually begins receiving benefit payments.

Background
The case involved X.S., a shortened version of a fictitious name assigned by the presiding workers compensation administrative law judge to protect the applicants medical privacy.
X.S. was injured in January 2004 while employed as an accountant/controller, and eventually was deemed eligible to receive $728 weekly for life.

A dispute arose when the applicant claimed the weekly payments that began on October 20, 2006 should be increased to reflect annual increases in the states average weekly wage by calculating retroactive cost-of-living adjustments from the January 1 following the date on which he was injured to the date on which his total permanent disability payments began.

The Workers Compensation Appeals Board said the cost-of-living adjustment should apply on the January 1 following the date of injury, regardless of when the first payment was received.
The Court of Appeal, however, annulled the boards decision and sided with the California Applicants Attorneys Association, finding that the cost-of-living adjustment begins to accrue January 1, 2004, without regard to the date of injury. The appeals court reasoned that otherwise a worker whose total permanent disability does not become permanent and stable for a number of years would see payments exposed to the ravages of inflation over time, eroding the real value of the benefits.

Double Windfall Nixed
The Supreme Court overruled the Court of Appeal, finding the lower courts interpretation to be at odds with the language of the law and could result in a windfall double escalator by applying the cost-of-living adjustment retroactively from January 1, 2004 until the date the worker was injured. Because the indemnity payments owed to the injured worker were already increased by statute, there was no reason for the Legislature to have further included a cost-of-living adjustment increase.

Pointing to the very same legislative records highlighted by the CalChamber during oral argument in May, the state high court also cited the language of the law in finding no compelling reason to conclude the Legislature intended the cost-of-living adjustments in the law to broadly redress all the potentially erosive effects of inflation in the two categories of disability benefits covered by the section of law in dispute.
This ruling results in the most favorable interpretation possible for California employers and insurers, representing potential savings of billions of dollars in these two categories.
Staff Contact: Erika Frank

Cost Saving Workers' Comp Bills Await Senate Action (9/2/2011)

Two California Chamber of Commerce-supported bills that will help lower workers compensation costs await action in the Senate. AB 378 (Solorio; D-Anaheim) lowers pharmaceutical costs. AB 335 (Solorio; D-Anaheim) lowers frictional costs in the workers compensation system.

Pharmaceutical Costs
AB 378 lowers workers compensation costs by removing incentives for physicians to refer patients to pharmacies in which the physician or physicians family has a financial interest, and establishes a temporary fee schedule to reimburse for compound drugs until the workers compensation administrative director can establish a formal one.

Compound medication in the workers compensation system has been used primarily to assist injured workers who could not manage medication in its standard formulation.
In the last several years, however, there has been a sharp increase in usage and costs of compound drugs. Payments for compound drugs, medical foods, and co-packs grew from 2.3% to 12% of total medication expenses between 2006 and 2009, according to a 2010 report issued by the California Workers Compensation Institute (CWCI).

The CWCI report also found that from 20062009 these three types of medications also accounted for a disproportionate amount of total medication payments. Compound drugs, co-packs and medical foods accounted for 3.9% of total prescriptions, but 10.1% of total payments for medications.
Because compound medications are specialty products designed specifically for individual patients, they are not covered by the Medi-Cal fee schedule, even though most or nearly all of the active components of the compound are on the fee schedule. This creates an opportunity for some pharmacists and physicians to prescribe and charge fees beyond what would be allowed for pharmaceutical treatments within the fee schedule. Cost pressures are added to the workers comp system, which in turn leads to higher costs for insurers and higher premiums for employers.

The CalChamber believes AB 378 is a good start at establishing guidelines to the dispensing of compound drugs and under what circumstances they would be covered, and how much.
Specifically, AB 378 removes the financial incentives for physicians to prescribe compound drugs by adding pharmacy goods to a list of medical goods and services for which it is unlawful for a physician to refer patients if the doctor has a financial stake in the pharmacy. This ensures that the physician solely has the patients well being in mind when prescribing compound drugs.
AB 335 brings an estimated savings of $42 million to the workers compensation system by requiring the workers compensation administrative director to work with the Commission on Health and Safety and Workers Compensation to develop regulations regarding notices to injured workers.
The bill requires the administrative director and commission to develop and make accessible a booklet written in plain language about the workers comp claims process.
Benefit Notices
AB 335 also streamlines and simplifies other notices to employees.
The CalChamber believes AB 335 will create better outcomes for injured workers by providing them with more digestible information at key points in the claims process. This information flow should lead to a reduction in frictional legal expenses that result from confusion and poor communication.
Action Needed
The CalChamber is encouraging members to contact their senators and ask them to support AB 378 and AB 335.
Cal Chamber Staff Contact: Thomas Vu

QUAGGA MUSSEL THREAT STATE WIDE STATE OF EMERGENCY (9/2/2011)

If as you read this, you are not aware of the devastation that these mussels will cause, please visit www.nomussels.com. I urge you to do some research and you will discover the billions of dollars being spent to combat the infestations in the Great Lakes areas and elsewhere. The mussels were found in Lake Mead in January 2007 creating many millions of dollars being spent there on a continuing basis. THESE MUSSELS CANNOT BE ERADICATED! As challenging as our local economy is now, an infestation of these mussels will be devastating and we will not be able to reverse the impacts to our water bodies.
The County of Lake has been developing our local program to keep the mussels out of our water bodies since 2008. Since that time, we have attempted to get state level recognition of the threat and have urged state officials to make this a state run program, to no avail; thus the recommendation for the State of Emergency. Currently the City of Lakeport has passed a resolution in support of the Countys action. Its important to note that just recently Scott DeLeon, Director of Public Works has been contacted by the Lake Tahoe agency in charge of their mussel program, to seek information about our program. Their lakes adjacent to Lake Tahoe have no programs and they feel our program can serve them well as they move forward to protect those other lakes.
Ive included some comments from Supervisor Anthony Farrington on what actions have been taken in the past couple of weeks on this issue. He and Supervisor Denise Rushing are taking the lead for the Board to bring this matter to Sacramento and beyond:
Supervisor Anthony Farringtons comments to the Clear Lake Advisory Committees recommendation:

Here is a brief update. Please share with CLAC members. I have worked with staff to send a cover letter which includes our Board's resolution calling for a State of Emergency, and I included Greg Giusti's report to the CDFG. I feel this report was adequate to serve as an initial overview of the problem. These documents went out last week to all 57 counties throughout the state. In addition, per your request I sent these documents to Mayors of Lakeport and Clearlake. In the future I plan on sending out a subsequent document that I requested that Jim Steele create as a briefing document and action plan. I will circulate this document with CLAC members for feedback and input prior to its mailing.

In reference to other mailings I sent out the documents to Mike Thompson, Senators Boxer and Feinstein, Governor Brown, State Legislature representatives, Speaker Perez, Speaker Pro Tempore Ma, President of the Senate Steinberg, both Minority Leaders, and Governor Brown. In addition the documents were mailed out to state agencies such as the Resources Agency, Director John Laird, CAL EPA, Linda Adams, Director of Fish and Game, Director and Chair of State Water Resources Control Board, (also the Central Valley Water Quality Control Board.) Also, I sent docs along with a request to make a presentation to the Northern California Water Association (NCWA) (which represents water purveyors in Northern California), and the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) - both Executive Directors of these two influential organizations are individuals that I worked with when I was in Sacramento. Also, I sent docs out to the Metropolitan Water District which serves Los Angeles, and requested a meeting with their staff.

As for presentations, Supervisor Rushing and myself will be giving a presentation on Sept. 8 to the entire California Association of Counties' (CSAC) Board of Directors, and requesting that CSAC as an organization call for a State of Emergency; and I am currently trying to set up a presentation with the Regional Council of Rural Counties (RCRC) and association of 30 rural counties for Sept. 21 at their annual meeting in Tahoe. I will also be reaching out to the California League of Cities in the near future.
As you can see, the Board of Supervisors are committed to getting the entire State involved and as Chair of CLAC, I and the members of this committee feel justified in having requested the State of Emergency declaration. Watch for more updates in our local media.

Melissa Fulton
Chair of CLAC

ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN LAKE COUNTY (7/26/2011)

which was launched in November 2010, has programs available for qualified residential and non-residential customers. Most recently, Lake County Energy Watch has partnered with Richard Heath and Associates (RHA) who oversees the Energy Fitness Program, an energy efficiency program available to all non-residential PGE customers in Lake County whose electrical demand is 200 kw or less including city, state and federal facilities located in Lake County as well as non-profit organizations, small businesses and special districts.
The Energy Fitness Program offers lighting retrofits (remove and replace existing lighting for high energy
efficient lighting) at no- or low-cost. The retrofits include four and eight foot linear fixtures, high bay
fixtures, Energy Star compact fluorescent lamps, LED exit signs or retro kits, occupancy sensors, vending
machine controllers, faucet aerators, as well as additional LED and other cost effective savings measures.
Most of these measures are at absolutely no cost including removal and installation with just a few of
the options requiring a nominal surcharge.
Non-Profits:

Lake County Energy Watch was awarded $10,000 by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PGE) to assist
501(c)(3) non-profit organizations in Lake County with paying any applicable surcharge for lighting
retrofits. When a 501(c)(3) non-profit receives services from RHA through the Lake County Energy
Watch program, RHA will invoice Lake County Energy Watch on behalf of the eligible organization.

Residential:

For residential customers, Lake County Energy Watch is helping to promote A.B.S, an Energy Savings
Assistance Program contractor previously known as the Energy Partner Contractor with PGE that can
provide qualified residents with free energy education and weatherization on homes, apartments or mobile
homes which can include attic insulation, weather stripping, caulking, energy-efficient lighting and
refrigerators, window repair and more.

Lake County Energy Watch is administered by PGE using funding from California utility ratepayers
under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission. Energy Watch partnerships are designed
to help local governments and their communities lower their energy bills and enjoy a cleaner
environment.

For more information about the Lake County Energy Watch program, contact Michalyn DelValle at (707)
263-2221 or visit www.energy.co.lake.ca.us

Sales Tax Requirements for Non-Profits & Exempt Organizations from Betty T. Yee of State Board of Equalization (7/22/2011)

Please find an update of a recurring series of articles from Board of Equalization Member Betty T. Yee. These articles focus on various topics addressing frequently asked questions from taxpayers.
The attached article entitled, Sales and Use Tax Requirements for Nonprofit and Exempt Charitable Organizations has recently been updated with additional information including:
A number of exemptions in which nonprofit organizations will be treated as consumers of tangible personal property, meaning that they must pay sales tax when they purchase these articles, but any subsequent sale or transfer will not be considered to be subject to tax.
Sales of tangible property by charitable organizations that qualify for the welfare exemption from property tax and engaged in the relief of poverty and distress are exempt from taxation, if the sale mainly assists purchasers in distressed financial condition and the property is made, prepared, and assembled or manufactured by the organization.
If you are a nonprofit organization or a tax preparer, please take a moment to review these important changes. We hope you and your colleagues or members find this information helpful and informative. Please visit Board Member Yee's website at http://www.boe.ca.gov/members/yee/ for other articles and additional taxpayer resources.

County Officials Work To Help Minimize Clear Lake's Seasonal Algae Bloom (7/15/2011)

Island Park in Clearlake Oaks; the vast majority of the lake is not impacted.
At early reports of sightings, Water Resources staff began implementing the Departments multi-pronged approach designed to help minimize the impact of the algae, working with specialized contractors to treat the blue-green algae. The algae mitigation efforts are part of the Countys focused approach that is funded by a $1.4 million dollar appropriation by the Countys Board of Supervisors to protect Clear Lakes ecosystem and to enable residents and visitors to enjoy the lake to the fullest extent possible this summer.

Scott DeLeon, director of the Countys Water Resources Department, said the appropriation provides the funding necessary to work to mitigate nuisance algae and weeds. DeLeon said in addition to the chemical treatment, the Departments algae-mitigation efforts also include assisting citizens and resort owners with the installation of pumps to provide aeration and circulation by spraying water onto the surface of algae mats that can help to knock down the algae around private docks and beaches.
DeLeon also is investigating the potential of a mechanical harvesting technique that would essentially vacuum the algae mats and, through the use of a centrifuge, de-water the material, perhaps making it possible to dispose of only the algae material.
Several species of blue-green algae (also known as cyanobacteria) are present in Clear Lake, but the predominant species in this years bloom is Lyngbya. The ultraviolet rays of sunlight kill the blue-green algae cells, which then produce an extremely foul odor and create floating mats that turn turquoise, purple, orange, and yellow.

As in past years, Lake County Health Officer Dr. Karen Tait and officials from the Countys Environmental Health Division together recommended that people and pets stay out of areas of the water where visible algae mats or scum are present and re-emphasized that untreated lake water should never be used for drinking. Health Department officials have posted advisory signs at the impacted public beaches and continue to respond to calls and e-mails from concerned members of the public.
Dr. Tait explained, Last year, despite heavy blooms in some locations, measured toxin levels had been within safe recreational water levels. I am hopeful this will be the case again this year. She indicated the mix of algae types and extent of production can fluctuate and tests are not available for all possible toxin types. Based on research being done on the lake water, only minimal and mostly no measurable toxins have been detected.
With more than 68 square miles of surface area and 100 miles of shoreline, Clear Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake within the boundaries of California, and at an estimated two million years old, it also is one of the oldest lakes in North America. Its large drainage basin, shallow depth, and warm summertime water temperatures contribute to its rich nutrient content that supports the growth of algae and aquatic plants, which in turn, supports large populations of fish and wildlife. This vast expanse of warm water and numerous channels and natural bays also make Clear Lake attractive for visitors who enjoy all sorts of recreational activities including fishing, sailing, waterskiing, and kayaking.
For more information about the algae bloom and efforts to mitigate its impacts, contact the Lake County Department of Water Resources at (707) 263-2344. For health-related questions, contact the Lake County Health Services office at (707) 263-1164.
The Lake County Marketing and Economic Development Program is a division of the Lake County Administrative Office and actively works to promote tourism to and commerce in Lake County; efforts include media relations, visitor attraction, film commission, community beautification, and business assistance. For information, call (707) 263-2580 or visit www.lakecounty.com.

Lake County Food Guide Now Available at the Lake County Chamber (7/13/2011)

The Lake County Food Guide is now available at the Lake County Chamber of Commerce. Pick up your copy at 875 Lakeport Blvd., Lakeport at Vista Point.The purpose of this food guide is to invite your participation in supporting and expanding our local food system and to make healthy foods more easily accessible to everyone in our community. It is not intended to be an exhaustive compilation of food resources, but to highlight Lake County's rich tapestry of agriculture as one of its key assets.

Statewide Sales and Use Tax Rate Decreases by 1% on July 1st (7/1/2011)

Statewide Sales and Use Tax Rate Decreases by 1% on July 1st

The statewide sales and use tax rate decreased from 8.25 percent to 7.25 percent on July 1, 2011.

The 1 percent decrease applies, generally, to all taxable transactions in California. In areas where voters have approved additional sales taxes, the total tax rate applied to purchases will be the statewide base tax rate of 7.25 percent, plus any applicable local sales tax. For example the new rate for the cities of Lakeport and Clearlake is 7.75 percent.

Retailers should check the BOE website, www.boe.ca.gov, for updates.

To check if your city has additional sales taxes, you can visit the following website for a listing by City or County http://www.boe.ca.gov/cgi-bin/rates.cgi.

RECREATIONAL AREAS FREE OF AQUATIC WEEDS (6/30/2011)

READY FOR A GREAT SUMMER ON THE LAKE?
RECREATIONAL AREAS FREE OF AQUATIC WEEDS
TO ENHANCE EXPERIENCE ON CLEAR LAKE

LAKE COUNTY, CA - Boating, sailing, swimming, fishing, kayaking, jet skiing, wakeboarding, waterskiing - the list of fun activities on Clear Lake goes on and on. To make sure residents and visitors enjoy a great summer on Clear Lake, Lake County's Board of Supervisors recently took a bold step by allocating substantial resources to reduce the summertime growth of aquatic weeds.
Scott DeLeon, newly appointed Director of the Lake County Department of Public Works, also oversees the County Water Resources Division, and along with a new Director comes an aggressive new weed abatement plan for Clear Lake. This summer we are taking a much more proactive approach to control aquatic weed growth on Clear Lake, DeLeon said. We are targeting treatment in specific areas such as around public boat launches, resorts, and higher-density residential areas.
DeLeon explained the treatment areas will create a network of weed-free recreational areas that include Shoreline Lanes, Boating Lanes, and Water-Ski Lanes. The Shoreline Lanes are 50 feet wide and will run parallel to the shoreline. The Boating Lanes will be 50 feet wide and from 1,000 to 2,000 feet in length so that boaters may easily access the deeper waters of Clear Lake. The Water-Ski lanes will be 300 feet from shore and run parallel with the shoreline. The creation of these lanes will make Clear Lake more enjoyable for all lake users.
With more than 68 square miles of surface area and 100 miles of shoreline, Clear Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake within the boundaries of California, and at an estimated two million years old, it also is one of the oldest lakes in North America. With its vast expanse of relatively shallow, warm water and numerous channels and natural bays, Clear Lake is a haven for visitors who enjoy all sorts of recreational activities.

When the water is particularly clear during the summer growing season, sunlight easily reaches the shallow lake bottom, resulting in the growth of aquatic weeds, which can make it challenging for boat propellers, sailboat keels, and intake systems on personal watercraft (PWCs).
The County's more proactive approach to controlling aquatic weeds will create specific recreational areas on the lake while maintaining weeds in other areas to preserve the habitat that makes the Clear Lake ecosystem a haven for fish, birds, and other wildlife.
The Board of Supervisors truly understands the importance of Clear Lake to the county's economy, said County Administrative Officer Kelly Cox. The Board has made Clear Lake a top priority by unanimously committing the resources necessary to address the aquatic weed issues to help make the lake enjoyable for everyone.
By making the financial commitment necessary for a more proactive aquatic weed abatement program, County officials anticipate this will encourage visitors to come, stay, and experience Clear Lake, and return for another visit.
Just two hours by car from the Bay Area, the Sacramento Valley, and the Pacific Coast, Clear Lake offers numerous recreational opportunities and scenic beauty in a relatively short driving distance for most Northern Californians. This summer, visitors to Lake County will experience first-hand the wonders of a one-of-a-kind lake and the commitment of its residents to preserve and protect this natural treasure.
Owning a boat isn't necessary to enjoy Clear Lake. Several local businesses offer all types of boats for rent - from ski boats and PWCs to pontoon boats and kayaks. For more information, call (707) 263-2580 or visit www.lakecounty.com.
CONTACTS: Scott DeLeon, (707) 263-2244
Jennifer Hammond, (707) 263-2580

Discussion Proposed on District Boundaries (6/21/2011)

Public districting public discussion will be held at the following locations:

Monday, June 27th 6:00pm Board of Supervisors Chambers, Lakeport.
Wednesday, June 29th 6:30pm Calpine Visitor Center, Middletown.
Thursday, June 30th 6pm Lucerne Senior Center, Lucerne.
Wednesday, July 6th 6:30pm Little Red School House, Cobb. (tentative location)
Thursday, July 7th 6:30pm Clearlake City Hall, Council Chambers.

At the public discussions, the proposed supervisorial district boundary adjustments will be displayed on a screen for the public to view. These public discussions will be informal and will give attendees an opportunity to make comments or suggestions before the advisory committee presents its proposed boundary adjustment recommendations to the Lake County Board of Supervisors on July 26, at 9:15 am in the Board of Supervisors Chambers.

What is Shop,Stay & Play? (6/20/2011)

You may have seen this logo around Lake County or in the Record-Bee newspaper and wondered what is it? It is a marketing program created by the Lake County Chamber of Commerce to help local businesess and consumers shop locally. You can also go to the SSP link here for more info including videos of the program. Check out the new DEALS posted daily.
Our goal is to keep tax dollars here in Lake County, a benefit to local business and consumers alike.

Lakeport Police Officers Association Announces Benefit (6/7/2011)

has served his community as a member of the Lake County Sheriffs Department for the past decade. Brian is recovering from a traumatic brain injury and he, along with his wife and two children, are in need of our support.
Please join the Lakeport Police Department and show your support for Brian and his family. All proceeds will go to the Kenner family.
For further information contact Sgt. Jason Ferguson or Officer Norm Taylor.

LAKE COUNTY SESQUICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION SET FOR MAY 20 (5/13/2011)

LAKE COUNTY SESQUICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION SET FOR MAY 20
May 20, 2011, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Old Courthouse Square, 255 N. Main St., Lakeport
LAKE COUNTY, CA The public is invited to attend a celebration of Lake Countys 150-year anniversary with a Sesquicentennial Celebration event on Friday, May 20, 2011, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., in Old Courthouse Square in front of the Historic Courthouse Museum, at 255 N. Main Street in Lakeport.
This family-friendly celebration will begin with presentation of the colors by the Clear Lake Junior Horsemen Drill Team and the singing of the national anthem by Miss Lake Countys Outstanding Teen, Faith Hornby.
The program will include a re-enactment of the signing of the act of incorporation that carved a section of northern Napa County to create Lake County, a reading of the proclamation of the commemoration by the Lake County Board of Supervisors, as well as the telling of several fascinating stories of Lake Countys past.
A 45-minute guided historic walking tour of downtown Lakeport will be offered at 6:00 p.m. Antique fire trucks will be on display from Lakeport Fire Protection District and Kelseyville Fire Protection District. Musical entertainment during the evening will be provided by the Sweet Adelines and by Hilarie, Milton Moe. The Upper Lake 4-H Club will be selling old-fashioned root beer floats, and the Lake County Winery Association will be pouring a selection of Lake County wines.
Several Lake County historic groups, including the Lake County Historical Society, will present informative exhibits and displays. The Lake County Historic Courthouse Museum will be open during the event with docents on hand to answer questions.
A selection of 150th-logod merchandise will be available for sale with proceeds going to support the LC 150 effort.
This event kicks off the 150th celebration, which will continue through the summer and fall with a presence at several major annual events held in each community. Residents, community groups, and business owners and associations are encouraged to sponsor an activity or event in their community. Those interested in doing so may contact the Lake County Chamber of Commerce at (707) 263-5092 for information about donations and sponsorship levels, in-kind needs, and volunteer opportunities.
The LC150 steering committee has been working for several months guiding the plans for the celebration and includes several community volunteers, as well as representatives from the Lake County Museum, Friends of the Lake County Museum, Lake County Genealogical Society, Lake County Historical Society, Lake County Chamber of Commerce, Lake County Marketing and Economic Development Program, Lakeport Main Street Association, Lake County Winery Association, and City of Lakeport.
To discover more, go online to www.LC150.org for information about Lake County sesquicentennial activities and events and for a fascinating look at historical video vignettes of life in Lake County in the 1860s. This site is updated regularly, so check back often.
Families, businesses, and organizations also are encouraged to tell their own story and connect it to the greater Lake County story on Facebook. Check out the Lake County sesquicentennial Facebook page at:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Lake-County-Sesquicentennial/171845856177015
Follow on Twitter @LakeCo150

The Birth of Lake County
In 1861, Abraham Lincoln had taken office as President, the nation was on the brink of the Civil War, and Gold Fever continued to lure pioneers and prospectors to the state. On May 20, 1861, nearly 11 years after California had become the 31st state in the Union, California Governor John D. Downey signed an Act of Incorporation into law and Lake County was born.
Called The Clearlake Township of Napa County and unofficially the Hot Springs Section, Lake County was carved from the northern section of Napa County. The 1860 Census recorded 1,065 residents in this area, a population that doubled in 10 years. Who were they? Joining the Native American population were farmers and ranchers, gold prospectors, war conscription evaders, and pioneers moving west in search of a new life.
Over the years, many have been drawn to Lake County. Today, more than 65,000 people call Lake County home. What has attracted these individuals to Lake County? For some, it may be the clean air, the wide open space, or the stunning lake or mountain vistas. For others, it may be opportunity, lifestyle, or family connection. For others still, it simply may be happenstance, luck, or serendipity. Thus, Lake County has a long history of fascinating stories stories of pioneering spirit and entrepreneurship, of agricultural traditions and recreational pursuits, of kindness and preservation, stories of heroes and visionaries, of traditions and family trees.

In support of the LC 150 effort (5/13/2011)

KEELING-BARNES FAMILY FOUNDATION DONATES TO LAKE COUNTY SESQUICENTENNIAL, PRESENTS CHALLENGE AWARD TO COMMUNITY
LAKE COUNTY, CA In support of the LC 150 effort, the Keeling-Barnes Family Foundation donated $2,500 in grant funds for the creation of signature 150th celebratory lamppost banners to be hung in several communities throughout Lake County.
In addition, the foundation presented the community with a challenge grant. If community donations reach $2,500, the Keeling-Barnes Family Foundation will then match that with an additional $2,500, which, in effect, doubles the impact of those donations.
To donate, please send a check made payable to Friends of the Lake County Museum LC 150 and address it to: Friends of the Lake County Museum, c/o Lake County Historic Courthouse Museum, 255 N. Main St., Lakeport, CA 95453. For information about donating, call (707) 263-4555 or send an e-mail to: LC150@gmail.com
The Friends of the Lake County Museum is a local 501(c)3 organization and the fiscal agent for the LC 150 effort.
To discover more, go online to www.LC150.org for information about Lake County sesquicentennial activities and events and for a fascinating look at historical video vignettes of life in Lake County in the 1860s. This site is updated regularly, so check back often.

Job Fair Planned By LAKE ONE-STOP (5/4/2011)

Lake One-Stop is hosting a job fair Friday May 20th from 10:00am to 1:00pm at their Lakeport location on 55 First Street. The event will be held outdoors on the east lawn, so interested employers should call 263-0630 and register early before space runs out! Registration is required. Need more information or have questions, please call Tera Means Lake One-Stop, Inc., Business Services Specialist at 707-263-0630.

Governor Signs CalChamber-Supported Bill Removing State Tax on Health Care (4/8/2011)

Governor Signs CalChamber-Supported Bill Removing State Tax on Health Care
(April 8, 2011) Governor Jerry Brown yesterday signed a California Chamber of Commerce-supported bill that conforms the state with federal law by removing the state tax on health care coverage for adult children.

AB 36 (Perea; D-Fresno) specifically provides conformity between California and federal law regarding the taxable status of health care coverage for an adult child up to the age of 26, as well as payments or reimbursements made by an employer for an employees adult child. The law takes effect immediately.
Federal Health Care Law
The federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, both passed in March 2010, allowed children up to the age of 26 to remain on their parents health care plans. The federal government also amended the Internal Revenue Code to reflect that the value of the coverage provided for these adult children, as well as any payments/reimbursements made by the employer for the medical expenses of such children, is not taxable income to the parent.
California SB 1088 (Price; D-Los Angeles), signed and chaptered on September 30, 2010, expanded medical coverage to dependents up to the age of 26 on or after September 23, 2010 in order to match the federal health care law. SB 1088, however, did not adopt the federal tax rules for adult child medical coverage or medical payments.
As a result, the fair market value of medical coverage provided to adult children from 19 to 25 years of age was taxable income in California, except if other exclusions that existed in the law before the adoption of SB 1088 applied.
CalChamber Support
Without the passage of AB 36, businesses and employees in California would have been faced with the administrative and financial burden of determining the fair market value of the insurance coverage or medical payments provided solely for the adult child in order to properly calculate the state taxes owed.
CalChamber supports AB 36 because it resolves this discrepancy between California and federal tax law and thereby relieves California businesses and employees from this unnecessary cost.

Conforming to federal law and treating the value of the adult health care coverage as non-taxable income is an income tax reduction for
employees and a payroll tax reduction for employers. The intent of the federal health care law and SB 1088 was to expand insurance coverage to adult children.

Staff Contact: Jennifer Barrera

All CA Food Handlers Must Carry Food Handler Card (3/18/2011)

The California Food Handler Card law went into effect Jan. 1, with a compliance deadline of July 1 for food handlers involved in the preparation, service or storage of food to obtain basic food safety training, pass an exam and secure a California Food Handler Card.
The California Restaurant Association has been closely working with regulators to ensure the new law which is the biggest public policy change regarding food safety in nearly two decades will be enforced uniformly across the state.

At this time, operators need to be aware of three key components:

Workers must have a California Food Handler Card on file with employers by July 1.
Only three providers are qualified to issue a California Food Handler Card: the National Restaurant Associations ServSafe Starters program, National Registry and Prometrics.
Additional information will be released once the regulatory community has finalized and approved the official guidelines to be referenced by the enforcing agencies. These are expected to be released in early April.

In the meantime, for more information, go online at www.calrest.org/foodhandler or www.calfoodhandler.com.