California 2019-2020 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB3368 Compare Versions

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1-Amended IN Assembly May 19, 2020 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20192020 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 3368Introduced by Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy (Assembly Members Cervantes (Chair), Cunningham (Vice Chair), Chau, Chen, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, and Luz Rivas)March 05, 2020 An act to amend Sections 11148.5, 11340.6, 11340.7, 12098.3, and 12098.4 of the Government Code, relating to business. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 3368, as amended, Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy. 2020 Small Business Reform Act: petitions to adopt, amend, or repeal regulations.Existing law requires the Governor to appoint the Small Business Advocate and establishes the duties and functions of the Small Business Advocate to include, among others, representing the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small businesses. Existing law requires each state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business to designate at least one person who is required to serve as a small business liaison.Under existing law, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. Existing law requires the state agency to either deny the petition, as prescribed, or schedule the matter for a public hearing, as prescribed. Existing law prohibits a small business liaison from advocating for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervening in any pending investigation or enforcement action.This bill would require the Small Business Advocate and each small business liaison to provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions to request the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. The bill would also require the Small Businesses Advocate to provide counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive those petitions from small businesses. The bill would require each state agency to include on its internet website information regarding the submission of a petition, as specified. The bill would authorize a small business liaison to advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation that is requested by petition.Existing law requires a state agency that receives a petition to notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition and, within 30 days, either deny the petition in writing indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition or schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with specified notice and hearing requirements.This bill would require a state agency that receives a petition from a small business to forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate and the related agency liaison. The bill would authorize the advocate and the agency liaison to issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, and would require the advocate and the agency liaison to offer a petitioner at least one meeting to discuss the contents of a petition. The bill would also require the state agency to notify the petitioner of receipt of the petition within 30 days.Existing law requires the Small Business Advocate to submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that, among other things, describes the activities and recommendations of the Office of the Small Business Advocate.This bill would require the annual report to additionally include the number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison, and the small business advocate, the number and nature of petitions referred to the office, and recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist in the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: NO Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. This act shall be known, and may be cited, as the 2020 Small Business Reform Act.SEC. 2. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) Californias dominance in many economic areas is based, in part, on the significant role small businesses play in the states $2.9 trillion economy.(b) Two separate studies, one by the United States Census Bureau and another by the Kaufman Foundation, found that net job growth was strongest among business with less than 20 employees.(c) Supporting small business development has shown to be a successful inclusive economic growth strategy advantaging business throughout the state, including historically underserved business groups, including minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses, and hard to serve areas of the state, including low-wealth, rural, and disaster-impacted communities.(d)In order for the state to fully leverage the economic opportunities represented by supporting small businesses, it is the intent of the Legislature that the Department of General Services, the Office of the Small Business Advocate, and the Small Business Advocate actively promote small business certification, help small businesses market their products, goods, and services to the state, and promote the use of technologies and other innovative solutions for notifying small businesses of state contracting opportunities.SEC. 3. Section 11148.5 of the Government Code is amended to read:11148.5. (a) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall designate at least one person who shall serve as a small business liaison. The agency shall utilize existing personnel and resources to perform the duties of small business liaison.(b) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall widely publicize the position of small business liaison in appropriate agency publications and by prominently displaying the name and contact information of the small business liaison on the agencys internet website if the agency has an internet website.(c) The small business liaison shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Receiving and responding to complaints received by the agency from small businesses.(2) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in resolving problems and questions regarding compliance with the agencys regulations and relevant statutes.(3) (A) Reporting small business concerns and, if appropriate, reporting recommendations to the agency secretary or to the agency head, as defined in Section 11405.40.(B) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(4) Reviewing and updating, on a semiannual basis, content on the agencys internet website that is accessible through the small business link provided on the State of California Internet portal pursuant to Section 11541.5.(5) Assisting the agency secretary, department director, or executive officer, as applicable, in ensuring that the procurement and contracting processes of the applicable entity are administered in order to meet or exceed the 25 percent small business participation goal, and developing and sharing innovative procurement and contracting practices from the public and private sectors to increase opportunities for small businesses.(d) The (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), the small business liaison shall not advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervene in any pending investigation or enforcement action.(2) The prohibition in paragraph (1) shall not apply to the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation that is requested by petition pursuant to Sections 11340.6 and 11340.7.(e) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall notify the Office of Small Business Advocate within the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development and the Department of General Services of each of the following:(1) The name and contact information of the person or persons who have been designated as the agencys small business liaison, on or before March 1, 2018.(2) An occurrence of a vacancy in the position of small business liaison, within 15 working days of the occurrence of the vacancy. The state agency shall designate a small business liaison within three months after providing notice of the vacancy.(f) For purposes of this section, small business has the same meaning as set forth in Section 11342.610.SEC. 4. Section 11340.6 of the Government Code is amended to read:11340.6. (a) Except where the right to petition for adoption of a regulation is restricted by statute to a designated group or where the form of procedure for such a petition is otherwise prescribed by statute, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation as provided in Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346). This petition shall state the following clearly and concisely:(1) The substance or nature of the regulation, amendment, or repeal requested.(2) The reason for the request.(3) Reference to the authority of the state agency to take the action requested.(b) Information regarding the submission of a petition shall be included on the state agencys internet website, and, at a minimum, be located in the same location as the information required by subdivision (b) of Section 11148.5 regarding how to contact the small business liaison.SEC. 5. Section 11340.7 of the Government Code is amended to read:11340.7. (a) Upon receipt of a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346), a state agency shall do both of the following:(1) (A) Forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate, appointed pursuant to Section 12098.3, and the related agency liaison, appointed pursuant to Section 11148.5 within 30 days.(B) For each petition submitted by a small business, the advocate and the agency liaison may issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, or recommend alternative actions to resolve or mitigate issues identified in the petition.(C) The advocate and the agency liaison shall offer to have at least one meeting with the petitioner to discuss the content of the petition.(2) Notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition within 30 days.(b) Within 30 days of providing notice pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a), the state agency shall take one of the following actions:(1) Schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346).(2) Deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing. (c) A state agency may grant or deny the petition in whole or in part, and may grant any other relief or take any other action as it may determine to be warranted by the petition and shall notify the petitioner in writing of this action.(d) Any interested person may request a reconsideration of any part or all of a decision of any agency on any petition submitted. The request shall be submitted in accordance with Section 11340.6 and include the reason or reasons why an agency should reconsider its previous decision no later than 60 days after the date of the decision involved. The agencys reconsideration of any matter relating to a petition shall be subject to subdivision (a).(e) Any decision of a state agency denying in whole or in part or granting in whole or in part a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346) shall be in writing and shall be transmitted to the Office of Administrative Law for publication in the California Regulatory Notice Register at the earliest practicable date. The decision shall identify the agency, the party submitting the petition, the provisions of the California Code of Regulations requested to be affected, reference to authority to take the action requested, the reasons supporting the agency determination, an agency contact person, and the right of interested persons to obtain a copy of the petition from the agency.SEC. 6. Section 12098.3 of the Government Code is amended to read:12098.3. (a) The Small Business Advocate shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Governor.(b) The Governor shall appoint the employees who are needed to accomplish the purposes of this article.(c) The duties and functions of the advocate shall include all of the following:(1) Serve as the principal advocate in the state on behalf of small businesses, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation and administrative regulations that affect small businesses, and advocacy on state policy and programs related to small businesses.(2) Represent the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small business.(3) Enlist the cooperation and assistance of public and private agencies, businesses, and other organizations in disseminating information about the programs and services provided by state government that are of benefit to small businesses, and information on how small businesses can participate in, or make use of, those programs and services.(4) Consult with experts and authorities in the fields of small business investment, venture capital investment, and commercial banking and other comparable financial institutions involved in the financing of business, and with individuals with regulatory, legal, economic, or financial expertise, including members of the academic community, and individuals who generally represent the public interest.(5) Seek the assistance and cooperation of all state agencies and departments providing services to, or affecting, small business, including the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, to ensure coordination of state efforts.(6) Receive and respond to complaints from small businesses concerning the actions of state agencies and the operative effects of state laws and regulations adversely affecting those businesses.(7) Counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of small business to state government.(8) Collaborate with the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services in their activities under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act (Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 14835) of Part 5.5), including, but not limited to, promoting small business certification and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business participation.(9) Maintain, publicize, and distribute an annual list of persons serving as small business advocate throughout state government.(10) (A) Provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(B) Counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive petitions from small businesses.SEC. 7. Section 12098.4 of the Government Code is amended to read:12098.4. (a) Each agency of the state shall furnish to the advocate the reports, documents, and information that are public records and that the advocate deems necessary to carry out the advocates functions under this chapter.(b) (1) The advocate shall prepare and submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that describes the activities and recommendations of the office.(2) The report shall, at a minimum, include an identification of all of the following:(A) The number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, and the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846.(B) The number and nature of outreach efforts of state agencies and, where appropriate, specific departments, that significantly regulate small businesses to assist minority and other small business enterprises.(C) The number and nature of petitions referred to the office pursuant to Section 11340.6. 11340.7.(3) The report shall make recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.(c) (1) The advocate may establish a centralized interactive telephone referral system and internet website to assist small and minority businesses in their operations, including governmental requirements, such as taxation, accounting, and pollution control, and to provide information concerning the agency from which more specialized assistance may be obtained.(2) The advocate shall post on the GO-Biz internet website or the advocates internet website:(A) Information on how to receive assistance in identifying and understanding the states regulatory requirements. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5 to assist small businesses with understanding and adhering to the regulatory requirements of the state entities in which they serve.(ii) The internet website developed and maintained by GO-Biz to identify licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, pursuant to the requirements of Section 12097.1(B) Information on how to receive assistance in certifying as a small business and identifying and participating in state procurement opportunities. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846 to assist small businesses in contracting with the state entities in which they serve.(ii) Contact information for the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services established pursuant to Section 14839.(C) Information about emergency preparedness, responses to emergencies, and recovery strategies for small businesses. This information shall be developed and updated in consultation with relevant state agencies and emergency responders.(D) A link to the Energy Upgrade California internet website to assist small business owners in accessing information on the availability of various programs promoting the efficient use of energy.(E) Information on programs administered through the statewide network of small business financial development corporations. Programs covered shall include loan guarantees, direct lending, surety bond guarantees, and disaster loans. Information shall be presented in a manner appropriate to address the needs of both small businesses and existing and potential financial institutions and financial companies.(F) Information on how to identify and access services provided through the statewide network of small business technical assistance centers, including, but not limited to, small business development centers, women business centers, veteran business outreach centers, procurement technical assistance centers, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership.
1+CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20192020 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 3368Introduced by Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy (Assembly Members Cervantes (Chair), Cunningham (Vice Chair), Chau, Chen, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, and Luz Rivas)March 05, 2020 An act to amend Sections 11148.5, 11340.6, 11340.7, 12098.3, and 12098.4 of the Government Code, relating to business. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 3368, as introduced, Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy. 2020 Small Business Reform Act: petitions to adopt, amend, or repeal regulations.Existing law requires the Governor to appoint the Small Business Advocate and establishes the duties and functions of the Small Business Advocate to include, among others, representing the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small businesses. Existing law requires each state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business to designate at least one person who is required to serve as a small business liaison.Under existing law, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. Existing law requires the state agency to either deny the petition, as prescribed, or schedule the matter for a public hearing, as prescribed.This bill would require the Small Business Advocate and each small business liaison to provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions to request the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. The bill would also require the Small Businesses Advocate to provide counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive those petitions from small businesses. The bill would require each state agency to include on its internet website information regarding the submission of a petition, as specified.Existing law requires a state agency that receives a petition to notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition and, within 30 days, either deny the petition in writing indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition or schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with specified notice and hearing requirements.This bill would require a state agency that receives a petition from a small business to forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate and the related agency liaison. The bill would authorize the advocate and the agency liaison to issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, and would require the advocate and the agency liaison to offer a petitioner at least one meeting to discuss the contents of a petition. The bill would also require the state agency to notify the petitioner of receipt of the petition within 30 days.Existing law requires the Small Business Advocate to submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that, among other things, describes the activities and recommendations of the Office of the Small Business Advocate.This bill would require the annual report to additionally include the number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison, and the small business advocate, the number and nature of petitions referred to the office, and recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist in the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: NO Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. This act shall be known, and may be cited, as the 2020 Small Business Reform Act.SEC. 2. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) Californias dominance in many economic areas is based, in part, on the significant role small businesses play in the states $2.9 trillion economy.(b) Two separate studies, one by the United States Census Bureau and another by the Kaufman Foundation, found that net job growth was strongest among business with less than 20 employees.(c) Supporting small business development has shown to be a successful inclusive economic growth strategy advantaging business throughout the state, including historically underserved business groups, including minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses, and hard to serve areas of the state, including low-wealth, rural, and disaster-impacted communities.(d) In order for the state to fully leverage the economic opportunities represented by supporting small businesses, it is the intent of the Legislature that the Department of General Services, the Office of the Small Business Advocate, and the Small Business Advocate actively promote small business certification, help small businesses market their products, goods, and services to the state, and promote the use of technologies and other innovative solutions for notifying small businesses of state contracting opportunities.SEC. 3. Section 11148.5 of the Government Code is amended to read:11148.5. (a) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall designate at least one person who shall serve as a small business liaison. The agency shall utilize existing personnel and resources to perform the duties of small business liaison.(b) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall widely publicize the position of small business liaison in appropriate agency publications and by prominently displaying the name and contact information of the small business liaison on the agencys Web site internet website if the agency has a Web site. an internet website.(c) The small business liaison shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Receiving and responding to complaints received by the agency from small businesses.(2) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in resolving problems and questions regarding compliance with the agencys regulations and relevant statutes.(3) (A) Reporting small business concerns and, if appropriate, reporting recommendations to the agency secretary or to the agency head, as defined in Section 11405.40.(B) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(4) Reviewing and updating, on a semiannual basis, content on the agency Web site agencys internet website that is accessible through the small business link provided on the State of California Internet portal pursuant to Section 11541.5.(5) Assisting the agency secretary, department director, or executive officer, as applicable, in ensuring that the procurement and contracting processes of the applicable entity are administered in order to meet or exceed the 25 percent small business participation goal, and developing and sharing innovative procurement and contracting practices from the public and private sectors to increase opportunities for small businesses.(d) The small business liaison shall not advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervene in any pending investigation or enforcement action.(e) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall notify the Office of Small Business Advocate within the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development and the Department of General Services of each of the following:(1) The name and contact information of the person or persons who have been designated as the agencys small business liaison, on or before March 1, 2018.(2) An occurrence of a vacancy in the position of small business liaison, within 15 working days of the occurrence of the vacancy. The state agency shall designate a small business liaison within three months after providing notice of the vacancy.(f) For purposes of this section, small business has the same meaning as set forth in Section 11342.610.SEC. 4. Section 11340.6 of the Government Code is amended to read:11340.6. (a) Except where the right to petition for adoption of a regulation is restricted by statute to a designated group or where the form of procedure for such a petition is otherwise prescribed by statute, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation as provided in Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346). This petition shall state the following clearly and concisely:(a)(1) The substance or nature of the regulation, amendment, or repeal requested.(b)(2) The reason for the request.(c)(3) Reference to the authority of the state agency to take the action requested.(b) Information regarding the submission of a petition shall be included on the state agencys internet website, and, at a minimum, be located in the same location as the information required by subdivision (b) of Section 11148.5 regarding how to contact the small business liaison.SEC. 5. Section 11340.7 of the Government Code is amended to read:11340.7. (a) Upon receipt of a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346), a state agency shall notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt and shall within 30 days deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing or schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of that article. shall do both of the following:(1) (A) Forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate, appointed pursuant to Section 12098.3, and the related agency liaison, appointed pursuant to Section 11148.5 within 30 days.(B) For each petition submitted by a small business, the advocate and the agency liaison may issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, or recommend alternative actions to resolve or mitigate issues identified in the petition.(C) The advocate and the agency liaison shall offer to have at least one meeting with the petitioner to discuss the content of the petition.(2) Notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition within 30 days.(b) Within 30 days of providing notice pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a), the state agency shall take one of the following actions:(1) Schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346).(2) Deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing. (b)(c) A state agency may grant or deny the petition in whole or in part, and may grant any other relief or take any other action as it may determine to be warranted by the petition and shall notify the petitioner in writing of this action.(c)(d) Any interested person may request a reconsideration of any part or all of a decision of any agency on any petition submitted. The request shall be submitted in accordance with Section 11340.6 and include the reason or reasons why an agency should reconsider its previous decision no later than 60 days after the date of the decision involved. The agencys reconsideration of any matter relating to a petition shall be subject to subdivision (a).(d)(e) Any decision of a state agency denying in whole or in part or granting in whole or in part a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346) shall be in writing and shall be transmitted to the Office of Administrative Law for publication in the California Regulatory Notice Register at the earliest practicable date. The decision shall identify the agency, the party submitting the petition, the provisions of the California Code of Regulations requested to be affected, reference to authority to take the action requested, the reasons supporting the agency determination, an agency contact person, and the right of interested persons to obtain a copy of the petition from the agency.SEC. 6. Section 12098.3 of the Government Code is amended to read:12098.3. (a) The Small Business Advocate shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Governor.(b) The Governor shall appoint the employees who are needed to accomplish the purposes of this article.(c) The duties and functions of the advocate shall include all of the following:(1) Serve as the principal advocate in the state on behalf of small businesses, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation and administrative regulations that affect small businesses, and advocacy on state policy and programs related to small businesses.(2) Represent the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small business.(3) Enlist the cooperation and assistance of public and private agencies, businesses, and other organizations in disseminating information about the programs and services provided by state government that are of benefit to small businesses, and information on how small businesses can participate in, or make use of, those programs and services.(4) Consult with experts and authorities in the fields of small business investment, venture capital investment, and commercial banking and other comparable financial institutions involved in the financing of business, and with individuals with regulatory, legal, economic, or financial expertise, including members of the academic community, and individuals who generally represent the public interest.(5) Seek the assistance and cooperation of all state agencies and departments providing services to, or affecting, small business, including the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 14846, 11148.5, to ensure coordination of state efforts.(6) Receive and respond to complaints from small businesses concerning the actions of state agencies and the operative effects of state laws and regulations adversely affecting those businesses.(7) Counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of small business to state government.(8) Collaborate with the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services in their activities under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act (Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 14835) of Part 5.5), including, but not limited to, promoting small business certification and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business participation. Among other activities, the advocate shall maintain,(9) Maintain, publicize, and distribute an annual list of persons serving as small business ombudsperson advocate throughout state government.(10) (A) Provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(B) Counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive petitions from small businesses.SEC. 7. Section 12098.4 of the Government Code is amended to read:12098.4. (a) Each agency of the state shall furnish to the advocate the reports, documents, and information that are public records and that the advocate deems necessary to carry out his or her the advocates functions under this chapter.(b) (1) The advocate shall prepare and submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that describes the activities and recommendations of the office, including an evaluation of the office.(2) The report shall, at a minimum, include an identification of all of the following:(A) The number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, and the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846.(B) The number and nature of outreach efforts of state agencies and, where appropriate, specific departments, that significantly regulate small businesses to assist minority and other small business enterprises, and making recommendations enterprises.(C) The number and nature of petitions referred to the office pursuant to Section 11340.6.(3) The report shall make recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.(c) (1) The advocate may establish a centralized interactive telephone referral system and Internet Web site internet website to assist small and minority businesses in their operations, including governmental requirements, such as taxation, accounting, and pollution control, and to provide information concerning the agency from which more specialized assistance may be obtained.(2) The advocate shall post on the GO-Biz Internet Web site internet website or the advocates Internet Web site: internet website:(A) Information on how to receive assistance in identifying and understanding the states regulatory requirements. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, Internet Web site, internet website, and email of the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5 to assist small businesses with understanding and adhering to the regulatory requirements of the state entities in which they serve.(ii) The Internet Web site internet website developed and maintained by GO-Biz to identify licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, pursuant to the requirements of Section 12097.1(B) Information on how to receive assistance in certifying as a small business and identifying and participating in state procurement opportunities. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, Internet Web site, internet website, and email of the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846 to assist small businesses in contracting with the state entities in which they serve.(ii) Contact information for the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services established pursuant to Section 14839.(C) Information about emergency preparedness, responses to emergencies, and recovery strategies for small businesses. This information shall be developed and updated in consultation with relevant state agencies and emergency responders.(D) A link to the Energy Upgrade California Internet Web site internet website to assist small business owners in accessing information on the availability of various programs promoting the efficient use of energy.(E) Information on programs administered through the statewide network of small business financial development corporations. Programs covered shall include loan guarantees, direct lending, surety bond guarantees, and disaster loans. Information shall be presented in a manner appropriate to address the needs of both small businesses and existing and potential financial institutions and financial companies.(F) Information on how to identify and access services provided through the statewide network of small business technical assistance centers, including, but not limited to, small business development centers, women business centers, veteran business outreach centers, procurement technical assistance centers, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership.
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3- Amended IN Assembly May 19, 2020 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20192020 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 3368Introduced by Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy (Assembly Members Cervantes (Chair), Cunningham (Vice Chair), Chau, Chen, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, and Luz Rivas)March 05, 2020 An act to amend Sections 11148.5, 11340.6, 11340.7, 12098.3, and 12098.4 of the Government Code, relating to business. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 3368, as amended, Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy. 2020 Small Business Reform Act: petitions to adopt, amend, or repeal regulations.Existing law requires the Governor to appoint the Small Business Advocate and establishes the duties and functions of the Small Business Advocate to include, among others, representing the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small businesses. Existing law requires each state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business to designate at least one person who is required to serve as a small business liaison.Under existing law, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. Existing law requires the state agency to either deny the petition, as prescribed, or schedule the matter for a public hearing, as prescribed. Existing law prohibits a small business liaison from advocating for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervening in any pending investigation or enforcement action.This bill would require the Small Business Advocate and each small business liaison to provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions to request the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. The bill would also require the Small Businesses Advocate to provide counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive those petitions from small businesses. The bill would require each state agency to include on its internet website information regarding the submission of a petition, as specified. The bill would authorize a small business liaison to advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation that is requested by petition.Existing law requires a state agency that receives a petition to notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition and, within 30 days, either deny the petition in writing indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition or schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with specified notice and hearing requirements.This bill would require a state agency that receives a petition from a small business to forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate and the related agency liaison. The bill would authorize the advocate and the agency liaison to issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, and would require the advocate and the agency liaison to offer a petitioner at least one meeting to discuss the contents of a petition. The bill would also require the state agency to notify the petitioner of receipt of the petition within 30 days.Existing law requires the Small Business Advocate to submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that, among other things, describes the activities and recommendations of the Office of the Small Business Advocate.This bill would require the annual report to additionally include the number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison, and the small business advocate, the number and nature of petitions referred to the office, and recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist in the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: NO
3+ CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20192020 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 3368Introduced by Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy (Assembly Members Cervantes (Chair), Cunningham (Vice Chair), Chau, Chen, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, and Luz Rivas)March 05, 2020 An act to amend Sections 11148.5, 11340.6, 11340.7, 12098.3, and 12098.4 of the Government Code, relating to business. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 3368, as introduced, Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy. 2020 Small Business Reform Act: petitions to adopt, amend, or repeal regulations.Existing law requires the Governor to appoint the Small Business Advocate and establishes the duties and functions of the Small Business Advocate to include, among others, representing the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small businesses. Existing law requires each state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business to designate at least one person who is required to serve as a small business liaison.Under existing law, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. Existing law requires the state agency to either deny the petition, as prescribed, or schedule the matter for a public hearing, as prescribed.This bill would require the Small Business Advocate and each small business liaison to provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions to request the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. The bill would also require the Small Businesses Advocate to provide counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive those petitions from small businesses. The bill would require each state agency to include on its internet website information regarding the submission of a petition, as specified.Existing law requires a state agency that receives a petition to notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition and, within 30 days, either deny the petition in writing indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition or schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with specified notice and hearing requirements.This bill would require a state agency that receives a petition from a small business to forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate and the related agency liaison. The bill would authorize the advocate and the agency liaison to issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, and would require the advocate and the agency liaison to offer a petitioner at least one meeting to discuss the contents of a petition. The bill would also require the state agency to notify the petitioner of receipt of the petition within 30 days.Existing law requires the Small Business Advocate to submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that, among other things, describes the activities and recommendations of the Office of the Small Business Advocate.This bill would require the annual report to additionally include the number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison, and the small business advocate, the number and nature of petitions referred to the office, and recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist in the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY Appropriation: NO Fiscal Committee: YES Local Program: NO
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5- Amended IN Assembly May 19, 2020
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7-Amended IN Assembly May 19, 2020
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99 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20192020 REGULAR SESSION
1010
1111 Assembly Bill
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1313 No. 3368
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1515 Introduced by Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy (Assembly Members Cervantes (Chair), Cunningham (Vice Chair), Chau, Chen, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, and Luz Rivas)March 05, 2020
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1717 Introduced by Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy (Assembly Members Cervantes (Chair), Cunningham (Vice Chair), Chau, Chen, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, and Luz Rivas)
1818 March 05, 2020
1919
2020 An act to amend Sections 11148.5, 11340.6, 11340.7, 12098.3, and 12098.4 of the Government Code, relating to business.
2121
2222 LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
2323
2424 ## LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST
2525
26-AB 3368, as amended, Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy. 2020 Small Business Reform Act: petitions to adopt, amend, or repeal regulations.
26+AB 3368, as introduced, Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy. 2020 Small Business Reform Act: petitions to adopt, amend, or repeal regulations.
2727
28-Existing law requires the Governor to appoint the Small Business Advocate and establishes the duties and functions of the Small Business Advocate to include, among others, representing the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small businesses. Existing law requires each state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business to designate at least one person who is required to serve as a small business liaison.Under existing law, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. Existing law requires the state agency to either deny the petition, as prescribed, or schedule the matter for a public hearing, as prescribed. Existing law prohibits a small business liaison from advocating for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervening in any pending investigation or enforcement action.This bill would require the Small Business Advocate and each small business liaison to provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions to request the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. The bill would also require the Small Businesses Advocate to provide counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive those petitions from small businesses. The bill would require each state agency to include on its internet website information regarding the submission of a petition, as specified. The bill would authorize a small business liaison to advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation that is requested by petition.Existing law requires a state agency that receives a petition to notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition and, within 30 days, either deny the petition in writing indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition or schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with specified notice and hearing requirements.This bill would require a state agency that receives a petition from a small business to forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate and the related agency liaison. The bill would authorize the advocate and the agency liaison to issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, and would require the advocate and the agency liaison to offer a petitioner at least one meeting to discuss the contents of a petition. The bill would also require the state agency to notify the petitioner of receipt of the petition within 30 days.Existing law requires the Small Business Advocate to submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that, among other things, describes the activities and recommendations of the Office of the Small Business Advocate.This bill would require the annual report to additionally include the number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison, and the small business advocate, the number and nature of petitions referred to the office, and recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist in the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.
28+Existing law requires the Governor to appoint the Small Business Advocate and establishes the duties and functions of the Small Business Advocate to include, among others, representing the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small businesses. Existing law requires each state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business to designate at least one person who is required to serve as a small business liaison.Under existing law, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. Existing law requires the state agency to either deny the petition, as prescribed, or schedule the matter for a public hearing, as prescribed.This bill would require the Small Business Advocate and each small business liaison to provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions to request the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. The bill would also require the Small Businesses Advocate to provide counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive those petitions from small businesses. The bill would require each state agency to include on its internet website information regarding the submission of a petition, as specified.Existing law requires a state agency that receives a petition to notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition and, within 30 days, either deny the petition in writing indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition or schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with specified notice and hearing requirements.This bill would require a state agency that receives a petition from a small business to forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate and the related agency liaison. The bill would authorize the advocate and the agency liaison to issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, and would require the advocate and the agency liaison to offer a petitioner at least one meeting to discuss the contents of a petition. The bill would also require the state agency to notify the petitioner of receipt of the petition within 30 days.Existing law requires the Small Business Advocate to submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that, among other things, describes the activities and recommendations of the Office of the Small Business Advocate.This bill would require the annual report to additionally include the number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison, and the small business advocate, the number and nature of petitions referred to the office, and recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist in the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.
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3030 Existing law requires the Governor to appoint the Small Business Advocate and establishes the duties and functions of the Small Business Advocate to include, among others, representing the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small businesses. Existing law requires each state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business to designate at least one person who is required to serve as a small business liaison.
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32-Under existing law, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. Existing law requires the state agency to either deny the petition, as prescribed, or schedule the matter for a public hearing, as prescribed. Existing law prohibits a small business liaison from advocating for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervening in any pending investigation or enforcement action.
32+Under existing law, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. Existing law requires the state agency to either deny the petition, as prescribed, or schedule the matter for a public hearing, as prescribed.
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34-This bill would require the Small Business Advocate and each small business liaison to provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions to request the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. The bill would also require the Small Businesses Advocate to provide counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive those petitions from small businesses. The bill would require each state agency to include on its internet website information regarding the submission of a petition, as specified. The bill would authorize a small business liaison to advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation that is requested by petition.
34+This bill would require the Small Business Advocate and each small business liaison to provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions to request the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation. The bill would also require the Small Businesses Advocate to provide counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive those petitions from small businesses. The bill would require each state agency to include on its internet website information regarding the submission of a petition, as specified.
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3636 Existing law requires a state agency that receives a petition to notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition and, within 30 days, either deny the petition in writing indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition or schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with specified notice and hearing requirements.
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3838 This bill would require a state agency that receives a petition from a small business to forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate and the related agency liaison. The bill would authorize the advocate and the agency liaison to issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, and would require the advocate and the agency liaison to offer a petitioner at least one meeting to discuss the contents of a petition. The bill would also require the state agency to notify the petitioner of receipt of the petition within 30 days.
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4040 Existing law requires the Small Business Advocate to submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that, among other things, describes the activities and recommendations of the Office of the Small Business Advocate.
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4242 This bill would require the annual report to additionally include the number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison, and the small business advocate, the number and nature of petitions referred to the office, and recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist in the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.
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4444 ## Digest Key
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4646 ## Bill Text
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48-The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. This act shall be known, and may be cited, as the 2020 Small Business Reform Act.SEC. 2. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) Californias dominance in many economic areas is based, in part, on the significant role small businesses play in the states $2.9 trillion economy.(b) Two separate studies, one by the United States Census Bureau and another by the Kaufman Foundation, found that net job growth was strongest among business with less than 20 employees.(c) Supporting small business development has shown to be a successful inclusive economic growth strategy advantaging business throughout the state, including historically underserved business groups, including minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses, and hard to serve areas of the state, including low-wealth, rural, and disaster-impacted communities.(d)In order for the state to fully leverage the economic opportunities represented by supporting small businesses, it is the intent of the Legislature that the Department of General Services, the Office of the Small Business Advocate, and the Small Business Advocate actively promote small business certification, help small businesses market their products, goods, and services to the state, and promote the use of technologies and other innovative solutions for notifying small businesses of state contracting opportunities.SEC. 3. Section 11148.5 of the Government Code is amended to read:11148.5. (a) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall designate at least one person who shall serve as a small business liaison. The agency shall utilize existing personnel and resources to perform the duties of small business liaison.(b) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall widely publicize the position of small business liaison in appropriate agency publications and by prominently displaying the name and contact information of the small business liaison on the agencys internet website if the agency has an internet website.(c) The small business liaison shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Receiving and responding to complaints received by the agency from small businesses.(2) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in resolving problems and questions regarding compliance with the agencys regulations and relevant statutes.(3) (A) Reporting small business concerns and, if appropriate, reporting recommendations to the agency secretary or to the agency head, as defined in Section 11405.40.(B) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(4) Reviewing and updating, on a semiannual basis, content on the agencys internet website that is accessible through the small business link provided on the State of California Internet portal pursuant to Section 11541.5.(5) Assisting the agency secretary, department director, or executive officer, as applicable, in ensuring that the procurement and contracting processes of the applicable entity are administered in order to meet or exceed the 25 percent small business participation goal, and developing and sharing innovative procurement and contracting practices from the public and private sectors to increase opportunities for small businesses.(d) The (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), the small business liaison shall not advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervene in any pending investigation or enforcement action.(2) The prohibition in paragraph (1) shall not apply to the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation that is requested by petition pursuant to Sections 11340.6 and 11340.7.(e) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall notify the Office of Small Business Advocate within the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development and the Department of General Services of each of the following:(1) The name and contact information of the person or persons who have been designated as the agencys small business liaison, on or before March 1, 2018.(2) An occurrence of a vacancy in the position of small business liaison, within 15 working days of the occurrence of the vacancy. The state agency shall designate a small business liaison within three months after providing notice of the vacancy.(f) For purposes of this section, small business has the same meaning as set forth in Section 11342.610.SEC. 4. Section 11340.6 of the Government Code is amended to read:11340.6. (a) Except where the right to petition for adoption of a regulation is restricted by statute to a designated group or where the form of procedure for such a petition is otherwise prescribed by statute, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation as provided in Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346). This petition shall state the following clearly and concisely:(1) The substance or nature of the regulation, amendment, or repeal requested.(2) The reason for the request.(3) Reference to the authority of the state agency to take the action requested.(b) Information regarding the submission of a petition shall be included on the state agencys internet website, and, at a minimum, be located in the same location as the information required by subdivision (b) of Section 11148.5 regarding how to contact the small business liaison.SEC. 5. Section 11340.7 of the Government Code is amended to read:11340.7. (a) Upon receipt of a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346), a state agency shall do both of the following:(1) (A) Forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate, appointed pursuant to Section 12098.3, and the related agency liaison, appointed pursuant to Section 11148.5 within 30 days.(B) For each petition submitted by a small business, the advocate and the agency liaison may issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, or recommend alternative actions to resolve or mitigate issues identified in the petition.(C) The advocate and the agency liaison shall offer to have at least one meeting with the petitioner to discuss the content of the petition.(2) Notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition within 30 days.(b) Within 30 days of providing notice pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a), the state agency shall take one of the following actions:(1) Schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346).(2) Deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing. (c) A state agency may grant or deny the petition in whole or in part, and may grant any other relief or take any other action as it may determine to be warranted by the petition and shall notify the petitioner in writing of this action.(d) Any interested person may request a reconsideration of any part or all of a decision of any agency on any petition submitted. The request shall be submitted in accordance with Section 11340.6 and include the reason or reasons why an agency should reconsider its previous decision no later than 60 days after the date of the decision involved. The agencys reconsideration of any matter relating to a petition shall be subject to subdivision (a).(e) Any decision of a state agency denying in whole or in part or granting in whole or in part a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346) shall be in writing and shall be transmitted to the Office of Administrative Law for publication in the California Regulatory Notice Register at the earliest practicable date. The decision shall identify the agency, the party submitting the petition, the provisions of the California Code of Regulations requested to be affected, reference to authority to take the action requested, the reasons supporting the agency determination, an agency contact person, and the right of interested persons to obtain a copy of the petition from the agency.SEC. 6. Section 12098.3 of the Government Code is amended to read:12098.3. (a) The Small Business Advocate shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Governor.(b) The Governor shall appoint the employees who are needed to accomplish the purposes of this article.(c) The duties and functions of the advocate shall include all of the following:(1) Serve as the principal advocate in the state on behalf of small businesses, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation and administrative regulations that affect small businesses, and advocacy on state policy and programs related to small businesses.(2) Represent the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small business.(3) Enlist the cooperation and assistance of public and private agencies, businesses, and other organizations in disseminating information about the programs and services provided by state government that are of benefit to small businesses, and information on how small businesses can participate in, or make use of, those programs and services.(4) Consult with experts and authorities in the fields of small business investment, venture capital investment, and commercial banking and other comparable financial institutions involved in the financing of business, and with individuals with regulatory, legal, economic, or financial expertise, including members of the academic community, and individuals who generally represent the public interest.(5) Seek the assistance and cooperation of all state agencies and departments providing services to, or affecting, small business, including the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, to ensure coordination of state efforts.(6) Receive and respond to complaints from small businesses concerning the actions of state agencies and the operative effects of state laws and regulations adversely affecting those businesses.(7) Counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of small business to state government.(8) Collaborate with the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services in their activities under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act (Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 14835) of Part 5.5), including, but not limited to, promoting small business certification and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business participation.(9) Maintain, publicize, and distribute an annual list of persons serving as small business advocate throughout state government.(10) (A) Provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(B) Counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive petitions from small businesses.SEC. 7. Section 12098.4 of the Government Code is amended to read:12098.4. (a) Each agency of the state shall furnish to the advocate the reports, documents, and information that are public records and that the advocate deems necessary to carry out the advocates functions under this chapter.(b) (1) The advocate shall prepare and submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that describes the activities and recommendations of the office.(2) The report shall, at a minimum, include an identification of all of the following:(A) The number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, and the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846.(B) The number and nature of outreach efforts of state agencies and, where appropriate, specific departments, that significantly regulate small businesses to assist minority and other small business enterprises.(C) The number and nature of petitions referred to the office pursuant to Section 11340.6. 11340.7.(3) The report shall make recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.(c) (1) The advocate may establish a centralized interactive telephone referral system and internet website to assist small and minority businesses in their operations, including governmental requirements, such as taxation, accounting, and pollution control, and to provide information concerning the agency from which more specialized assistance may be obtained.(2) The advocate shall post on the GO-Biz internet website or the advocates internet website:(A) Information on how to receive assistance in identifying and understanding the states regulatory requirements. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5 to assist small businesses with understanding and adhering to the regulatory requirements of the state entities in which they serve.(ii) The internet website developed and maintained by GO-Biz to identify licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, pursuant to the requirements of Section 12097.1(B) Information on how to receive assistance in certifying as a small business and identifying and participating in state procurement opportunities. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846 to assist small businesses in contracting with the state entities in which they serve.(ii) Contact information for the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services established pursuant to Section 14839.(C) Information about emergency preparedness, responses to emergencies, and recovery strategies for small businesses. This information shall be developed and updated in consultation with relevant state agencies and emergency responders.(D) A link to the Energy Upgrade California internet website to assist small business owners in accessing information on the availability of various programs promoting the efficient use of energy.(E) Information on programs administered through the statewide network of small business financial development corporations. Programs covered shall include loan guarantees, direct lending, surety bond guarantees, and disaster loans. Information shall be presented in a manner appropriate to address the needs of both small businesses and existing and potential financial institutions and financial companies.(F) Information on how to identify and access services provided through the statewide network of small business technical assistance centers, including, but not limited to, small business development centers, women business centers, veteran business outreach centers, procurement technical assistance centers, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership.
48+The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. This act shall be known, and may be cited, as the 2020 Small Business Reform Act.SEC. 2. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) Californias dominance in many economic areas is based, in part, on the significant role small businesses play in the states $2.9 trillion economy.(b) Two separate studies, one by the United States Census Bureau and another by the Kaufman Foundation, found that net job growth was strongest among business with less than 20 employees.(c) Supporting small business development has shown to be a successful inclusive economic growth strategy advantaging business throughout the state, including historically underserved business groups, including minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses, and hard to serve areas of the state, including low-wealth, rural, and disaster-impacted communities.(d) In order for the state to fully leverage the economic opportunities represented by supporting small businesses, it is the intent of the Legislature that the Department of General Services, the Office of the Small Business Advocate, and the Small Business Advocate actively promote small business certification, help small businesses market their products, goods, and services to the state, and promote the use of technologies and other innovative solutions for notifying small businesses of state contracting opportunities.SEC. 3. Section 11148.5 of the Government Code is amended to read:11148.5. (a) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall designate at least one person who shall serve as a small business liaison. The agency shall utilize existing personnel and resources to perform the duties of small business liaison.(b) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall widely publicize the position of small business liaison in appropriate agency publications and by prominently displaying the name and contact information of the small business liaison on the agencys Web site internet website if the agency has a Web site. an internet website.(c) The small business liaison shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Receiving and responding to complaints received by the agency from small businesses.(2) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in resolving problems and questions regarding compliance with the agencys regulations and relevant statutes.(3) (A) Reporting small business concerns and, if appropriate, reporting recommendations to the agency secretary or to the agency head, as defined in Section 11405.40.(B) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(4) Reviewing and updating, on a semiannual basis, content on the agency Web site agencys internet website that is accessible through the small business link provided on the State of California Internet portal pursuant to Section 11541.5.(5) Assisting the agency secretary, department director, or executive officer, as applicable, in ensuring that the procurement and contracting processes of the applicable entity are administered in order to meet or exceed the 25 percent small business participation goal, and developing and sharing innovative procurement and contracting practices from the public and private sectors to increase opportunities for small businesses.(d) The small business liaison shall not advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervene in any pending investigation or enforcement action.(e) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall notify the Office of Small Business Advocate within the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development and the Department of General Services of each of the following:(1) The name and contact information of the person or persons who have been designated as the agencys small business liaison, on or before March 1, 2018.(2) An occurrence of a vacancy in the position of small business liaison, within 15 working days of the occurrence of the vacancy. The state agency shall designate a small business liaison within three months after providing notice of the vacancy.(f) For purposes of this section, small business has the same meaning as set forth in Section 11342.610.SEC. 4. Section 11340.6 of the Government Code is amended to read:11340.6. (a) Except where the right to petition for adoption of a regulation is restricted by statute to a designated group or where the form of procedure for such a petition is otherwise prescribed by statute, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation as provided in Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346). This petition shall state the following clearly and concisely:(a)(1) The substance or nature of the regulation, amendment, or repeal requested.(b)(2) The reason for the request.(c)(3) Reference to the authority of the state agency to take the action requested.(b) Information regarding the submission of a petition shall be included on the state agencys internet website, and, at a minimum, be located in the same location as the information required by subdivision (b) of Section 11148.5 regarding how to contact the small business liaison.SEC. 5. Section 11340.7 of the Government Code is amended to read:11340.7. (a) Upon receipt of a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346), a state agency shall notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt and shall within 30 days deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing or schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of that article. shall do both of the following:(1) (A) Forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate, appointed pursuant to Section 12098.3, and the related agency liaison, appointed pursuant to Section 11148.5 within 30 days.(B) For each petition submitted by a small business, the advocate and the agency liaison may issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, or recommend alternative actions to resolve or mitigate issues identified in the petition.(C) The advocate and the agency liaison shall offer to have at least one meeting with the petitioner to discuss the content of the petition.(2) Notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition within 30 days.(b) Within 30 days of providing notice pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a), the state agency shall take one of the following actions:(1) Schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346).(2) Deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing. (b)(c) A state agency may grant or deny the petition in whole or in part, and may grant any other relief or take any other action as it may determine to be warranted by the petition and shall notify the petitioner in writing of this action.(c)(d) Any interested person may request a reconsideration of any part or all of a decision of any agency on any petition submitted. The request shall be submitted in accordance with Section 11340.6 and include the reason or reasons why an agency should reconsider its previous decision no later than 60 days after the date of the decision involved. The agencys reconsideration of any matter relating to a petition shall be subject to subdivision (a).(d)(e) Any decision of a state agency denying in whole or in part or granting in whole or in part a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346) shall be in writing and shall be transmitted to the Office of Administrative Law for publication in the California Regulatory Notice Register at the earliest practicable date. The decision shall identify the agency, the party submitting the petition, the provisions of the California Code of Regulations requested to be affected, reference to authority to take the action requested, the reasons supporting the agency determination, an agency contact person, and the right of interested persons to obtain a copy of the petition from the agency.SEC. 6. Section 12098.3 of the Government Code is amended to read:12098.3. (a) The Small Business Advocate shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Governor.(b) The Governor shall appoint the employees who are needed to accomplish the purposes of this article.(c) The duties and functions of the advocate shall include all of the following:(1) Serve as the principal advocate in the state on behalf of small businesses, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation and administrative regulations that affect small businesses, and advocacy on state policy and programs related to small businesses.(2) Represent the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small business.(3) Enlist the cooperation and assistance of public and private agencies, businesses, and other organizations in disseminating information about the programs and services provided by state government that are of benefit to small businesses, and information on how small businesses can participate in, or make use of, those programs and services.(4) Consult with experts and authorities in the fields of small business investment, venture capital investment, and commercial banking and other comparable financial institutions involved in the financing of business, and with individuals with regulatory, legal, economic, or financial expertise, including members of the academic community, and individuals who generally represent the public interest.(5) Seek the assistance and cooperation of all state agencies and departments providing services to, or affecting, small business, including the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 14846, 11148.5, to ensure coordination of state efforts.(6) Receive and respond to complaints from small businesses concerning the actions of state agencies and the operative effects of state laws and regulations adversely affecting those businesses.(7) Counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of small business to state government.(8) Collaborate with the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services in their activities under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act (Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 14835) of Part 5.5), including, but not limited to, promoting small business certification and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business participation. Among other activities, the advocate shall maintain,(9) Maintain, publicize, and distribute an annual list of persons serving as small business ombudsperson advocate throughout state government.(10) (A) Provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(B) Counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive petitions from small businesses.SEC. 7. Section 12098.4 of the Government Code is amended to read:12098.4. (a) Each agency of the state shall furnish to the advocate the reports, documents, and information that are public records and that the advocate deems necessary to carry out his or her the advocates functions under this chapter.(b) (1) The advocate shall prepare and submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that describes the activities and recommendations of the office, including an evaluation of the office.(2) The report shall, at a minimum, include an identification of all of the following:(A) The number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, and the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846.(B) The number and nature of outreach efforts of state agencies and, where appropriate, specific departments, that significantly regulate small businesses to assist minority and other small business enterprises, and making recommendations enterprises.(C) The number and nature of petitions referred to the office pursuant to Section 11340.6.(3) The report shall make recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.(c) (1) The advocate may establish a centralized interactive telephone referral system and Internet Web site internet website to assist small and minority businesses in their operations, including governmental requirements, such as taxation, accounting, and pollution control, and to provide information concerning the agency from which more specialized assistance may be obtained.(2) The advocate shall post on the GO-Biz Internet Web site internet website or the advocates Internet Web site: internet website:(A) Information on how to receive assistance in identifying and understanding the states regulatory requirements. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, Internet Web site, internet website, and email of the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5 to assist small businesses with understanding and adhering to the regulatory requirements of the state entities in which they serve.(ii) The Internet Web site internet website developed and maintained by GO-Biz to identify licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, pursuant to the requirements of Section 12097.1(B) Information on how to receive assistance in certifying as a small business and identifying and participating in state procurement opportunities. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, Internet Web site, internet website, and email of the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846 to assist small businesses in contracting with the state entities in which they serve.(ii) Contact information for the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services established pursuant to Section 14839.(C) Information about emergency preparedness, responses to emergencies, and recovery strategies for small businesses. This information shall be developed and updated in consultation with relevant state agencies and emergency responders.(D) A link to the Energy Upgrade California Internet Web site internet website to assist small business owners in accessing information on the availability of various programs promoting the efficient use of energy.(E) Information on programs administered through the statewide network of small business financial development corporations. Programs covered shall include loan guarantees, direct lending, surety bond guarantees, and disaster loans. Information shall be presented in a manner appropriate to address the needs of both small businesses and existing and potential financial institutions and financial companies.(F) Information on how to identify and access services provided through the statewide network of small business technical assistance centers, including, but not limited to, small business development centers, women business centers, veteran business outreach centers, procurement technical assistance centers, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership.
4949
5050 The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
5151
5252 ## The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
5353
5454 SECTION 1. This act shall be known, and may be cited, as the 2020 Small Business Reform Act.
5555
5656 SECTION 1. This act shall be known, and may be cited, as the 2020 Small Business Reform Act.
5757
5858 SECTION 1. This act shall be known, and may be cited, as the 2020 Small Business Reform Act.
5959
6060 ### SECTION 1.
6161
6262 SEC. 2. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) Californias dominance in many economic areas is based, in part, on the significant role small businesses play in the states $2.9 trillion economy.(b) Two separate studies, one by the United States Census Bureau and another by the Kaufman Foundation, found that net job growth was strongest among business with less than 20 employees.(c) Supporting small business development has shown to be a successful inclusive economic growth strategy advantaging business throughout the state, including historically underserved business groups, including minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses, and hard to serve areas of the state, including low-wealth, rural, and disaster-impacted communities.(d) In order for the state to fully leverage the economic opportunities represented by supporting small businesses, it is the intent of the Legislature that the Department of General Services, the Office of the Small Business Advocate, and the Small Business Advocate actively promote small business certification, help small businesses market their products, goods, and services to the state, and promote the use of technologies and other innovative solutions for notifying small businesses of state contracting opportunities.
6363
6464 SEC. 2. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:(a) Californias dominance in many economic areas is based, in part, on the significant role small businesses play in the states $2.9 trillion economy.(b) Two separate studies, one by the United States Census Bureau and another by the Kaufman Foundation, found that net job growth was strongest among business with less than 20 employees.(c) Supporting small business development has shown to be a successful inclusive economic growth strategy advantaging business throughout the state, including historically underserved business groups, including minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses, and hard to serve areas of the state, including low-wealth, rural, and disaster-impacted communities.(d) In order for the state to fully leverage the economic opportunities represented by supporting small businesses, it is the intent of the Legislature that the Department of General Services, the Office of the Small Business Advocate, and the Small Business Advocate actively promote small business certification, help small businesses market their products, goods, and services to the state, and promote the use of technologies and other innovative solutions for notifying small businesses of state contracting opportunities.
6565
6666 SEC. 2. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:
6767
6868 ### SEC. 2.
6969
7070 (a) Californias dominance in many economic areas is based, in part, on the significant role small businesses play in the states $2.9 trillion economy.
7171
7272 (b) Two separate studies, one by the United States Census Bureau and another by the Kaufman Foundation, found that net job growth was strongest among business with less than 20 employees.
7373
7474 (c) Supporting small business development has shown to be a successful inclusive economic growth strategy advantaging business throughout the state, including historically underserved business groups, including minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses, and hard to serve areas of the state, including low-wealth, rural, and disaster-impacted communities.
7575
7676 (d) In order for the state to fully leverage the economic opportunities represented by supporting small businesses, it is the intent of the Legislature that the Department of General Services, the Office of the Small Business Advocate, and the Small Business Advocate actively promote small business certification, help small businesses market their products, goods, and services to the state, and promote the use of technologies and other innovative solutions for notifying small businesses of state contracting opportunities.
7777
78-
79-
80-SEC. 3. Section 11148.5 of the Government Code is amended to read:11148.5. (a) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall designate at least one person who shall serve as a small business liaison. The agency shall utilize existing personnel and resources to perform the duties of small business liaison.(b) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall widely publicize the position of small business liaison in appropriate agency publications and by prominently displaying the name and contact information of the small business liaison on the agencys internet website if the agency has an internet website.(c) The small business liaison shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Receiving and responding to complaints received by the agency from small businesses.(2) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in resolving problems and questions regarding compliance with the agencys regulations and relevant statutes.(3) (A) Reporting small business concerns and, if appropriate, reporting recommendations to the agency secretary or to the agency head, as defined in Section 11405.40.(B) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(4) Reviewing and updating, on a semiannual basis, content on the agencys internet website that is accessible through the small business link provided on the State of California Internet portal pursuant to Section 11541.5.(5) Assisting the agency secretary, department director, or executive officer, as applicable, in ensuring that the procurement and contracting processes of the applicable entity are administered in order to meet or exceed the 25 percent small business participation goal, and developing and sharing innovative procurement and contracting practices from the public and private sectors to increase opportunities for small businesses.(d) The (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), the small business liaison shall not advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervene in any pending investigation or enforcement action.(2) The prohibition in paragraph (1) shall not apply to the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation that is requested by petition pursuant to Sections 11340.6 and 11340.7.(e) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall notify the Office of Small Business Advocate within the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development and the Department of General Services of each of the following:(1) The name and contact information of the person or persons who have been designated as the agencys small business liaison, on or before March 1, 2018.(2) An occurrence of a vacancy in the position of small business liaison, within 15 working days of the occurrence of the vacancy. The state agency shall designate a small business liaison within three months after providing notice of the vacancy.(f) For purposes of this section, small business has the same meaning as set forth in Section 11342.610.
78+SEC. 3. Section 11148.5 of the Government Code is amended to read:11148.5. (a) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall designate at least one person who shall serve as a small business liaison. The agency shall utilize existing personnel and resources to perform the duties of small business liaison.(b) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall widely publicize the position of small business liaison in appropriate agency publications and by prominently displaying the name and contact information of the small business liaison on the agencys Web site internet website if the agency has a Web site. an internet website.(c) The small business liaison shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Receiving and responding to complaints received by the agency from small businesses.(2) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in resolving problems and questions regarding compliance with the agencys regulations and relevant statutes.(3) (A) Reporting small business concerns and, if appropriate, reporting recommendations to the agency secretary or to the agency head, as defined in Section 11405.40.(B) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(4) Reviewing and updating, on a semiannual basis, content on the agency Web site agencys internet website that is accessible through the small business link provided on the State of California Internet portal pursuant to Section 11541.5.(5) Assisting the agency secretary, department director, or executive officer, as applicable, in ensuring that the procurement and contracting processes of the applicable entity are administered in order to meet or exceed the 25 percent small business participation goal, and developing and sharing innovative procurement and contracting practices from the public and private sectors to increase opportunities for small businesses.(d) The small business liaison shall not advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervene in any pending investigation or enforcement action.(e) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall notify the Office of Small Business Advocate within the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development and the Department of General Services of each of the following:(1) The name and contact information of the person or persons who have been designated as the agencys small business liaison, on or before March 1, 2018.(2) An occurrence of a vacancy in the position of small business liaison, within 15 working days of the occurrence of the vacancy. The state agency shall designate a small business liaison within three months after providing notice of the vacancy.(f) For purposes of this section, small business has the same meaning as set forth in Section 11342.610.
8179
8280 SEC. 3. Section 11148.5 of the Government Code is amended to read:
8381
8482 ### SEC. 3.
8583
86-11148.5. (a) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall designate at least one person who shall serve as a small business liaison. The agency shall utilize existing personnel and resources to perform the duties of small business liaison.(b) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall widely publicize the position of small business liaison in appropriate agency publications and by prominently displaying the name and contact information of the small business liaison on the agencys internet website if the agency has an internet website.(c) The small business liaison shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Receiving and responding to complaints received by the agency from small businesses.(2) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in resolving problems and questions regarding compliance with the agencys regulations and relevant statutes.(3) (A) Reporting small business concerns and, if appropriate, reporting recommendations to the agency secretary or to the agency head, as defined in Section 11405.40.(B) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(4) Reviewing and updating, on a semiannual basis, content on the agencys internet website that is accessible through the small business link provided on the State of California Internet portal pursuant to Section 11541.5.(5) Assisting the agency secretary, department director, or executive officer, as applicable, in ensuring that the procurement and contracting processes of the applicable entity are administered in order to meet or exceed the 25 percent small business participation goal, and developing and sharing innovative procurement and contracting practices from the public and private sectors to increase opportunities for small businesses.(d) The (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), the small business liaison shall not advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervene in any pending investigation or enforcement action.(2) The prohibition in paragraph (1) shall not apply to the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation that is requested by petition pursuant to Sections 11340.6 and 11340.7.(e) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall notify the Office of Small Business Advocate within the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development and the Department of General Services of each of the following:(1) The name and contact information of the person or persons who have been designated as the agencys small business liaison, on or before March 1, 2018.(2) An occurrence of a vacancy in the position of small business liaison, within 15 working days of the occurrence of the vacancy. The state agency shall designate a small business liaison within three months after providing notice of the vacancy.(f) For purposes of this section, small business has the same meaning as set forth in Section 11342.610.
84+11148.5. (a) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall designate at least one person who shall serve as a small business liaison. The agency shall utilize existing personnel and resources to perform the duties of small business liaison.(b) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall widely publicize the position of small business liaison in appropriate agency publications and by prominently displaying the name and contact information of the small business liaison on the agencys Web site internet website if the agency has a Web site. an internet website.(c) The small business liaison shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Receiving and responding to complaints received by the agency from small businesses.(2) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in resolving problems and questions regarding compliance with the agencys regulations and relevant statutes.(3) (A) Reporting small business concerns and, if appropriate, reporting recommendations to the agency secretary or to the agency head, as defined in Section 11405.40.(B) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(4) Reviewing and updating, on a semiannual basis, content on the agency Web site agencys internet website that is accessible through the small business link provided on the State of California Internet portal pursuant to Section 11541.5.(5) Assisting the agency secretary, department director, or executive officer, as applicable, in ensuring that the procurement and contracting processes of the applicable entity are administered in order to meet or exceed the 25 percent small business participation goal, and developing and sharing innovative procurement and contracting practices from the public and private sectors to increase opportunities for small businesses.(d) The small business liaison shall not advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervene in any pending investigation or enforcement action.(e) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall notify the Office of Small Business Advocate within the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development and the Department of General Services of each of the following:(1) The name and contact information of the person or persons who have been designated as the agencys small business liaison, on or before March 1, 2018.(2) An occurrence of a vacancy in the position of small business liaison, within 15 working days of the occurrence of the vacancy. The state agency shall designate a small business liaison within three months after providing notice of the vacancy.(f) For purposes of this section, small business has the same meaning as set forth in Section 11342.610.
8785
88-11148.5. (a) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall designate at least one person who shall serve as a small business liaison. The agency shall utilize existing personnel and resources to perform the duties of small business liaison.(b) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall widely publicize the position of small business liaison in appropriate agency publications and by prominently displaying the name and contact information of the small business liaison on the agencys internet website if the agency has an internet website.(c) The small business liaison shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Receiving and responding to complaints received by the agency from small businesses.(2) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in resolving problems and questions regarding compliance with the agencys regulations and relevant statutes.(3) (A) Reporting small business concerns and, if appropriate, reporting recommendations to the agency secretary or to the agency head, as defined in Section 11405.40.(B) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(4) Reviewing and updating, on a semiannual basis, content on the agencys internet website that is accessible through the small business link provided on the State of California Internet portal pursuant to Section 11541.5.(5) Assisting the agency secretary, department director, or executive officer, as applicable, in ensuring that the procurement and contracting processes of the applicable entity are administered in order to meet or exceed the 25 percent small business participation goal, and developing and sharing innovative procurement and contracting practices from the public and private sectors to increase opportunities for small businesses.(d) The (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), the small business liaison shall not advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervene in any pending investigation or enforcement action.(2) The prohibition in paragraph (1) shall not apply to the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation that is requested by petition pursuant to Sections 11340.6 and 11340.7.(e) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall notify the Office of Small Business Advocate within the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development and the Department of General Services of each of the following:(1) The name and contact information of the person or persons who have been designated as the agencys small business liaison, on or before March 1, 2018.(2) An occurrence of a vacancy in the position of small business liaison, within 15 working days of the occurrence of the vacancy. The state agency shall designate a small business liaison within three months after providing notice of the vacancy.(f) For purposes of this section, small business has the same meaning as set forth in Section 11342.610.
86+11148.5. (a) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall designate at least one person who shall serve as a small business liaison. The agency shall utilize existing personnel and resources to perform the duties of small business liaison.(b) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall widely publicize the position of small business liaison in appropriate agency publications and by prominently displaying the name and contact information of the small business liaison on the agencys Web site internet website if the agency has a Web site. an internet website.(c) The small business liaison shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Receiving and responding to complaints received by the agency from small businesses.(2) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in resolving problems and questions regarding compliance with the agencys regulations and relevant statutes.(3) (A) Reporting small business concerns and, if appropriate, reporting recommendations to the agency secretary or to the agency head, as defined in Section 11405.40.(B) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(4) Reviewing and updating, on a semiannual basis, content on the agency Web site agencys internet website that is accessible through the small business link provided on the State of California Internet portal pursuant to Section 11541.5.(5) Assisting the agency secretary, department director, or executive officer, as applicable, in ensuring that the procurement and contracting processes of the applicable entity are administered in order to meet or exceed the 25 percent small business participation goal, and developing and sharing innovative procurement and contracting practices from the public and private sectors to increase opportunities for small businesses.(d) The small business liaison shall not advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervene in any pending investigation or enforcement action.(e) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall notify the Office of Small Business Advocate within the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development and the Department of General Services of each of the following:(1) The name and contact information of the person or persons who have been designated as the agencys small business liaison, on or before March 1, 2018.(2) An occurrence of a vacancy in the position of small business liaison, within 15 working days of the occurrence of the vacancy. The state agency shall designate a small business liaison within three months after providing notice of the vacancy.(f) For purposes of this section, small business has the same meaning as set forth in Section 11342.610.
8987
90-11148.5. (a) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall designate at least one person who shall serve as a small business liaison. The agency shall utilize existing personnel and resources to perform the duties of small business liaison.(b) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall widely publicize the position of small business liaison in appropriate agency publications and by prominently displaying the name and contact information of the small business liaison on the agencys internet website if the agency has an internet website.(c) The small business liaison shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Receiving and responding to complaints received by the agency from small businesses.(2) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in resolving problems and questions regarding compliance with the agencys regulations and relevant statutes.(3) (A) Reporting small business concerns and, if appropriate, reporting recommendations to the agency secretary or to the agency head, as defined in Section 11405.40.(B) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(4) Reviewing and updating, on a semiannual basis, content on the agencys internet website that is accessible through the small business link provided on the State of California Internet portal pursuant to Section 11541.5.(5) Assisting the agency secretary, department director, or executive officer, as applicable, in ensuring that the procurement and contracting processes of the applicable entity are administered in order to meet or exceed the 25 percent small business participation goal, and developing and sharing innovative procurement and contracting practices from the public and private sectors to increase opportunities for small businesses.(d) The (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), the small business liaison shall not advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervene in any pending investigation or enforcement action.(2) The prohibition in paragraph (1) shall not apply to the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation that is requested by petition pursuant to Sections 11340.6 and 11340.7.(e) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall notify the Office of Small Business Advocate within the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development and the Department of General Services of each of the following:(1) The name and contact information of the person or persons who have been designated as the agencys small business liaison, on or before March 1, 2018.(2) An occurrence of a vacancy in the position of small business liaison, within 15 working days of the occurrence of the vacancy. The state agency shall designate a small business liaison within three months after providing notice of the vacancy.(f) For purposes of this section, small business has the same meaning as set forth in Section 11342.610.
88+11148.5. (a) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall designate at least one person who shall serve as a small business liaison. The agency shall utilize existing personnel and resources to perform the duties of small business liaison.(b) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall widely publicize the position of small business liaison in appropriate agency publications and by prominently displaying the name and contact information of the small business liaison on the agencys Web site internet website if the agency has a Web site. an internet website.(c) The small business liaison shall be responsible for all of the following:(1) Receiving and responding to complaints received by the agency from small businesses.(2) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in resolving problems and questions regarding compliance with the agencys regulations and relevant statutes.(3) (A) Reporting small business concerns and, if appropriate, reporting recommendations to the agency secretary or to the agency head, as defined in Section 11405.40.(B) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(4) Reviewing and updating, on a semiannual basis, content on the agency Web site agencys internet website that is accessible through the small business link provided on the State of California Internet portal pursuant to Section 11541.5.(5) Assisting the agency secretary, department director, or executive officer, as applicable, in ensuring that the procurement and contracting processes of the applicable entity are administered in order to meet or exceed the 25 percent small business participation goal, and developing and sharing innovative procurement and contracting practices from the public and private sectors to increase opportunities for small businesses.(d) The small business liaison shall not advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervene in any pending investigation or enforcement action.(e) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall notify the Office of Small Business Advocate within the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development and the Department of General Services of each of the following:(1) The name and contact information of the person or persons who have been designated as the agencys small business liaison, on or before March 1, 2018.(2) An occurrence of a vacancy in the position of small business liaison, within 15 working days of the occurrence of the vacancy. The state agency shall designate a small business liaison within three months after providing notice of the vacancy.(f) For purposes of this section, small business has the same meaning as set forth in Section 11342.610.
9189
9290
9391
9492 11148.5. (a) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall designate at least one person who shall serve as a small business liaison. The agency shall utilize existing personnel and resources to perform the duties of small business liaison.
9593
96-(b) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall widely publicize the position of small business liaison in appropriate agency publications and by prominently displaying the name and contact information of the small business liaison on the agencys internet website if the agency has an internet website.
94+(b) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall widely publicize the position of small business liaison in appropriate agency publications and by prominently displaying the name and contact information of the small business liaison on the agencys Web site internet website if the agency has a Web site. an internet website.
9795
9896 (c) The small business liaison shall be responsible for all of the following:
9997
10098 (1) Receiving and responding to complaints received by the agency from small businesses.
10199
102100 (2) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in resolving problems and questions regarding compliance with the agencys regulations and relevant statutes.
103101
104102 (3) (A) Reporting small business concerns and, if appropriate, reporting recommendations to the agency secretary or to the agency head, as defined in Section 11405.40.
105103
106104 (B) Providing technical advice and assisting small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.
107105
108-(4) Reviewing and updating, on a semiannual basis, content on the agencys internet website that is accessible through the small business link provided on the State of California Internet portal pursuant to Section 11541.5.
106+(4) Reviewing and updating, on a semiannual basis, content on the agency Web site agencys internet website that is accessible through the small business link provided on the State of California Internet portal pursuant to Section 11541.5.
109107
110108 (5) Assisting the agency secretary, department director, or executive officer, as applicable, in ensuring that the procurement and contracting processes of the applicable entity are administered in order to meet or exceed the 25 percent small business participation goal, and developing and sharing innovative procurement and contracting practices from the public and private sectors to increase opportunities for small businesses.
111109
112-(d) The (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), the small business liaison shall not advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervene in any pending investigation or enforcement action.
113-
114-(2) The prohibition in paragraph (1) shall not apply to the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation that is requested by petition pursuant to Sections 11340.6 and 11340.7.
110+(d) The small business liaison shall not advocate for or against the adoption, amendment, or repeal of any regulation or intervene in any pending investigation or enforcement action.
115111
116112 (e) A state agency that significantly regulates small business or that significantly impacts small business shall notify the Office of Small Business Advocate within the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development and the Department of General Services of each of the following:
117113
118114 (1) The name and contact information of the person or persons who have been designated as the agencys small business liaison, on or before March 1, 2018.
119115
120116 (2) An occurrence of a vacancy in the position of small business liaison, within 15 working days of the occurrence of the vacancy. The state agency shall designate a small business liaison within three months after providing notice of the vacancy.
121117
122118 (f) For purposes of this section, small business has the same meaning as set forth in Section 11342.610.
123119
124-SEC. 4. Section 11340.6 of the Government Code is amended to read:11340.6. (a) Except where the right to petition for adoption of a regulation is restricted by statute to a designated group or where the form of procedure for such a petition is otherwise prescribed by statute, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation as provided in Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346). This petition shall state the following clearly and concisely:(1) The substance or nature of the regulation, amendment, or repeal requested.(2) The reason for the request.(3) Reference to the authority of the state agency to take the action requested.(b) Information regarding the submission of a petition shall be included on the state agencys internet website, and, at a minimum, be located in the same location as the information required by subdivision (b) of Section 11148.5 regarding how to contact the small business liaison.
120+SEC. 4. Section 11340.6 of the Government Code is amended to read:11340.6. (a) Except where the right to petition for adoption of a regulation is restricted by statute to a designated group or where the form of procedure for such a petition is otherwise prescribed by statute, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation as provided in Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346). This petition shall state the following clearly and concisely:(a)(1) The substance or nature of the regulation, amendment, or repeal requested.(b)(2) The reason for the request.(c)(3) Reference to the authority of the state agency to take the action requested.(b) Information regarding the submission of a petition shall be included on the state agencys internet website, and, at a minimum, be located in the same location as the information required by subdivision (b) of Section 11148.5 regarding how to contact the small business liaison.
125121
126122 SEC. 4. Section 11340.6 of the Government Code is amended to read:
127123
128124 ### SEC. 4.
129125
130-11340.6. (a) Except where the right to petition for adoption of a regulation is restricted by statute to a designated group or where the form of procedure for such a petition is otherwise prescribed by statute, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation as provided in Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346). This petition shall state the following clearly and concisely:(1) The substance or nature of the regulation, amendment, or repeal requested.(2) The reason for the request.(3) Reference to the authority of the state agency to take the action requested.(b) Information regarding the submission of a petition shall be included on the state agencys internet website, and, at a minimum, be located in the same location as the information required by subdivision (b) of Section 11148.5 regarding how to contact the small business liaison.
126+11340.6. (a) Except where the right to petition for adoption of a regulation is restricted by statute to a designated group or where the form of procedure for such a petition is otherwise prescribed by statute, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation as provided in Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346). This petition shall state the following clearly and concisely:(a)(1) The substance or nature of the regulation, amendment, or repeal requested.(b)(2) The reason for the request.(c)(3) Reference to the authority of the state agency to take the action requested.(b) Information regarding the submission of a petition shall be included on the state agencys internet website, and, at a minimum, be located in the same location as the information required by subdivision (b) of Section 11148.5 regarding how to contact the small business liaison.
131127
132-11340.6. (a) Except where the right to petition for adoption of a regulation is restricted by statute to a designated group or where the form of procedure for such a petition is otherwise prescribed by statute, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation as provided in Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346). This petition shall state the following clearly and concisely:(1) The substance or nature of the regulation, amendment, or repeal requested.(2) The reason for the request.(3) Reference to the authority of the state agency to take the action requested.(b) Information regarding the submission of a petition shall be included on the state agencys internet website, and, at a minimum, be located in the same location as the information required by subdivision (b) of Section 11148.5 regarding how to contact the small business liaison.
128+11340.6. (a) Except where the right to petition for adoption of a regulation is restricted by statute to a designated group or where the form of procedure for such a petition is otherwise prescribed by statute, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation as provided in Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346). This petition shall state the following clearly and concisely:(a)(1) The substance or nature of the regulation, amendment, or repeal requested.(b)(2) The reason for the request.(c)(3) Reference to the authority of the state agency to take the action requested.(b) Information regarding the submission of a petition shall be included on the state agencys internet website, and, at a minimum, be located in the same location as the information required by subdivision (b) of Section 11148.5 regarding how to contact the small business liaison.
133129
134-11340.6. (a) Except where the right to petition for adoption of a regulation is restricted by statute to a designated group or where the form of procedure for such a petition is otherwise prescribed by statute, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation as provided in Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346). This petition shall state the following clearly and concisely:(1) The substance or nature of the regulation, amendment, or repeal requested.(2) The reason for the request.(3) Reference to the authority of the state agency to take the action requested.(b) Information regarding the submission of a petition shall be included on the state agencys internet website, and, at a minimum, be located in the same location as the information required by subdivision (b) of Section 11148.5 regarding how to contact the small business liaison.
130+11340.6. (a) Except where the right to petition for adoption of a regulation is restricted by statute to a designated group or where the form of procedure for such a petition is otherwise prescribed by statute, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation as provided in Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346). This petition shall state the following clearly and concisely:(a)(1) The substance or nature of the regulation, amendment, or repeal requested.(b)(2) The reason for the request.(c)(3) Reference to the authority of the state agency to take the action requested.(b) Information regarding the submission of a petition shall be included on the state agencys internet website, and, at a minimum, be located in the same location as the information required by subdivision (b) of Section 11148.5 regarding how to contact the small business liaison.
135131
136132
137133
138134 11340.6. (a) Except where the right to petition for adoption of a regulation is restricted by statute to a designated group or where the form of procedure for such a petition is otherwise prescribed by statute, any interested person may petition a state agency requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation as provided in Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346). This petition shall state the following clearly and concisely:
139135
136+(a)
137+
138+
139+
140140 (1) The substance or nature of the regulation, amendment, or repeal requested.
141141
142+(b)
143+
144+
145+
142146 (2) The reason for the request.
147+
148+(c)
149+
150+
143151
144152 (3) Reference to the authority of the state agency to take the action requested.
145153
146154 (b) Information regarding the submission of a petition shall be included on the state agencys internet website, and, at a minimum, be located in the same location as the information required by subdivision (b) of Section 11148.5 regarding how to contact the small business liaison.
147155
148-SEC. 5. Section 11340.7 of the Government Code is amended to read:11340.7. (a) Upon receipt of a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346), a state agency shall do both of the following:(1) (A) Forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate, appointed pursuant to Section 12098.3, and the related agency liaison, appointed pursuant to Section 11148.5 within 30 days.(B) For each petition submitted by a small business, the advocate and the agency liaison may issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, or recommend alternative actions to resolve or mitigate issues identified in the petition.(C) The advocate and the agency liaison shall offer to have at least one meeting with the petitioner to discuss the content of the petition.(2) Notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition within 30 days.(b) Within 30 days of providing notice pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a), the state agency shall take one of the following actions:(1) Schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346).(2) Deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing. (c) A state agency may grant or deny the petition in whole or in part, and may grant any other relief or take any other action as it may determine to be warranted by the petition and shall notify the petitioner in writing of this action.(d) Any interested person may request a reconsideration of any part or all of a decision of any agency on any petition submitted. The request shall be submitted in accordance with Section 11340.6 and include the reason or reasons why an agency should reconsider its previous decision no later than 60 days after the date of the decision involved. The agencys reconsideration of any matter relating to a petition shall be subject to subdivision (a).(e) Any decision of a state agency denying in whole or in part or granting in whole or in part a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346) shall be in writing and shall be transmitted to the Office of Administrative Law for publication in the California Regulatory Notice Register at the earliest practicable date. The decision shall identify the agency, the party submitting the petition, the provisions of the California Code of Regulations requested to be affected, reference to authority to take the action requested, the reasons supporting the agency determination, an agency contact person, and the right of interested persons to obtain a copy of the petition from the agency.
156+SEC. 5. Section 11340.7 of the Government Code is amended to read:11340.7. (a) Upon receipt of a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346), a state agency shall notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt and shall within 30 days deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing or schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of that article. shall do both of the following:(1) (A) Forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate, appointed pursuant to Section 12098.3, and the related agency liaison, appointed pursuant to Section 11148.5 within 30 days.(B) For each petition submitted by a small business, the advocate and the agency liaison may issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, or recommend alternative actions to resolve or mitigate issues identified in the petition.(C) The advocate and the agency liaison shall offer to have at least one meeting with the petitioner to discuss the content of the petition.(2) Notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition within 30 days.(b) Within 30 days of providing notice pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a), the state agency shall take one of the following actions:(1) Schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346).(2) Deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing. (b)(c) A state agency may grant or deny the petition in whole or in part, and may grant any other relief or take any other action as it may determine to be warranted by the petition and shall notify the petitioner in writing of this action.(c)(d) Any interested person may request a reconsideration of any part or all of a decision of any agency on any petition submitted. The request shall be submitted in accordance with Section 11340.6 and include the reason or reasons why an agency should reconsider its previous decision no later than 60 days after the date of the decision involved. The agencys reconsideration of any matter relating to a petition shall be subject to subdivision (a).(d)(e) Any decision of a state agency denying in whole or in part or granting in whole or in part a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346) shall be in writing and shall be transmitted to the Office of Administrative Law for publication in the California Regulatory Notice Register at the earliest practicable date. The decision shall identify the agency, the party submitting the petition, the provisions of the California Code of Regulations requested to be affected, reference to authority to take the action requested, the reasons supporting the agency determination, an agency contact person, and the right of interested persons to obtain a copy of the petition from the agency.
149157
150158 SEC. 5. Section 11340.7 of the Government Code is amended to read:
151159
152160 ### SEC. 5.
153161
154-11340.7. (a) Upon receipt of a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346), a state agency shall do both of the following:(1) (A) Forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate, appointed pursuant to Section 12098.3, and the related agency liaison, appointed pursuant to Section 11148.5 within 30 days.(B) For each petition submitted by a small business, the advocate and the agency liaison may issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, or recommend alternative actions to resolve or mitigate issues identified in the petition.(C) The advocate and the agency liaison shall offer to have at least one meeting with the petitioner to discuss the content of the petition.(2) Notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition within 30 days.(b) Within 30 days of providing notice pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a), the state agency shall take one of the following actions:(1) Schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346).(2) Deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing. (c) A state agency may grant or deny the petition in whole or in part, and may grant any other relief or take any other action as it may determine to be warranted by the petition and shall notify the petitioner in writing of this action.(d) Any interested person may request a reconsideration of any part or all of a decision of any agency on any petition submitted. The request shall be submitted in accordance with Section 11340.6 and include the reason or reasons why an agency should reconsider its previous decision no later than 60 days after the date of the decision involved. The agencys reconsideration of any matter relating to a petition shall be subject to subdivision (a).(e) Any decision of a state agency denying in whole or in part or granting in whole or in part a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346) shall be in writing and shall be transmitted to the Office of Administrative Law for publication in the California Regulatory Notice Register at the earliest practicable date. The decision shall identify the agency, the party submitting the petition, the provisions of the California Code of Regulations requested to be affected, reference to authority to take the action requested, the reasons supporting the agency determination, an agency contact person, and the right of interested persons to obtain a copy of the petition from the agency.
162+11340.7. (a) Upon receipt of a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346), a state agency shall notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt and shall within 30 days deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing or schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of that article. shall do both of the following:(1) (A) Forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate, appointed pursuant to Section 12098.3, and the related agency liaison, appointed pursuant to Section 11148.5 within 30 days.(B) For each petition submitted by a small business, the advocate and the agency liaison may issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, or recommend alternative actions to resolve or mitigate issues identified in the petition.(C) The advocate and the agency liaison shall offer to have at least one meeting with the petitioner to discuss the content of the petition.(2) Notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition within 30 days.(b) Within 30 days of providing notice pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a), the state agency shall take one of the following actions:(1) Schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346).(2) Deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing. (b)(c) A state agency may grant or deny the petition in whole or in part, and may grant any other relief or take any other action as it may determine to be warranted by the petition and shall notify the petitioner in writing of this action.(c)(d) Any interested person may request a reconsideration of any part or all of a decision of any agency on any petition submitted. The request shall be submitted in accordance with Section 11340.6 and include the reason or reasons why an agency should reconsider its previous decision no later than 60 days after the date of the decision involved. The agencys reconsideration of any matter relating to a petition shall be subject to subdivision (a).(d)(e) Any decision of a state agency denying in whole or in part or granting in whole or in part a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346) shall be in writing and shall be transmitted to the Office of Administrative Law for publication in the California Regulatory Notice Register at the earliest practicable date. The decision shall identify the agency, the party submitting the petition, the provisions of the California Code of Regulations requested to be affected, reference to authority to take the action requested, the reasons supporting the agency determination, an agency contact person, and the right of interested persons to obtain a copy of the petition from the agency.
155163
156-11340.7. (a) Upon receipt of a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346), a state agency shall do both of the following:(1) (A) Forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate, appointed pursuant to Section 12098.3, and the related agency liaison, appointed pursuant to Section 11148.5 within 30 days.(B) For each petition submitted by a small business, the advocate and the agency liaison may issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, or recommend alternative actions to resolve or mitigate issues identified in the petition.(C) The advocate and the agency liaison shall offer to have at least one meeting with the petitioner to discuss the content of the petition.(2) Notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition within 30 days.(b) Within 30 days of providing notice pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a), the state agency shall take one of the following actions:(1) Schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346).(2) Deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing. (c) A state agency may grant or deny the petition in whole or in part, and may grant any other relief or take any other action as it may determine to be warranted by the petition and shall notify the petitioner in writing of this action.(d) Any interested person may request a reconsideration of any part or all of a decision of any agency on any petition submitted. The request shall be submitted in accordance with Section 11340.6 and include the reason or reasons why an agency should reconsider its previous decision no later than 60 days after the date of the decision involved. The agencys reconsideration of any matter relating to a petition shall be subject to subdivision (a).(e) Any decision of a state agency denying in whole or in part or granting in whole or in part a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346) shall be in writing and shall be transmitted to the Office of Administrative Law for publication in the California Regulatory Notice Register at the earliest practicable date. The decision shall identify the agency, the party submitting the petition, the provisions of the California Code of Regulations requested to be affected, reference to authority to take the action requested, the reasons supporting the agency determination, an agency contact person, and the right of interested persons to obtain a copy of the petition from the agency.
164+11340.7. (a) Upon receipt of a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346), a state agency shall notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt and shall within 30 days deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing or schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of that article. shall do both of the following:(1) (A) Forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate, appointed pursuant to Section 12098.3, and the related agency liaison, appointed pursuant to Section 11148.5 within 30 days.(B) For each petition submitted by a small business, the advocate and the agency liaison may issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, or recommend alternative actions to resolve or mitigate issues identified in the petition.(C) The advocate and the agency liaison shall offer to have at least one meeting with the petitioner to discuss the content of the petition.(2) Notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition within 30 days.(b) Within 30 days of providing notice pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a), the state agency shall take one of the following actions:(1) Schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346).(2) Deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing. (b)(c) A state agency may grant or deny the petition in whole or in part, and may grant any other relief or take any other action as it may determine to be warranted by the petition and shall notify the petitioner in writing of this action.(c)(d) Any interested person may request a reconsideration of any part or all of a decision of any agency on any petition submitted. The request shall be submitted in accordance with Section 11340.6 and include the reason or reasons why an agency should reconsider its previous decision no later than 60 days after the date of the decision involved. The agencys reconsideration of any matter relating to a petition shall be subject to subdivision (a).(d)(e) Any decision of a state agency denying in whole or in part or granting in whole or in part a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346) shall be in writing and shall be transmitted to the Office of Administrative Law for publication in the California Regulatory Notice Register at the earliest practicable date. The decision shall identify the agency, the party submitting the petition, the provisions of the California Code of Regulations requested to be affected, reference to authority to take the action requested, the reasons supporting the agency determination, an agency contact person, and the right of interested persons to obtain a copy of the petition from the agency.
157165
158-11340.7. (a) Upon receipt of a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346), a state agency shall do both of the following:(1) (A) Forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate, appointed pursuant to Section 12098.3, and the related agency liaison, appointed pursuant to Section 11148.5 within 30 days.(B) For each petition submitted by a small business, the advocate and the agency liaison may issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, or recommend alternative actions to resolve or mitigate issues identified in the petition.(C) The advocate and the agency liaison shall offer to have at least one meeting with the petitioner to discuss the content of the petition.(2) Notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition within 30 days.(b) Within 30 days of providing notice pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a), the state agency shall take one of the following actions:(1) Schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346).(2) Deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing. (c) A state agency may grant or deny the petition in whole or in part, and may grant any other relief or take any other action as it may determine to be warranted by the petition and shall notify the petitioner in writing of this action.(d) Any interested person may request a reconsideration of any part or all of a decision of any agency on any petition submitted. The request shall be submitted in accordance with Section 11340.6 and include the reason or reasons why an agency should reconsider its previous decision no later than 60 days after the date of the decision involved. The agencys reconsideration of any matter relating to a petition shall be subject to subdivision (a).(e) Any decision of a state agency denying in whole or in part or granting in whole or in part a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346) shall be in writing and shall be transmitted to the Office of Administrative Law for publication in the California Regulatory Notice Register at the earliest practicable date. The decision shall identify the agency, the party submitting the petition, the provisions of the California Code of Regulations requested to be affected, reference to authority to take the action requested, the reasons supporting the agency determination, an agency contact person, and the right of interested persons to obtain a copy of the petition from the agency.
166+11340.7. (a) Upon receipt of a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346), a state agency shall notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt and shall within 30 days deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing or schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of that article. shall do both of the following:(1) (A) Forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate, appointed pursuant to Section 12098.3, and the related agency liaison, appointed pursuant to Section 11148.5 within 30 days.(B) For each petition submitted by a small business, the advocate and the agency liaison may issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, or recommend alternative actions to resolve or mitigate issues identified in the petition.(C) The advocate and the agency liaison shall offer to have at least one meeting with the petitioner to discuss the content of the petition.(2) Notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition within 30 days.(b) Within 30 days of providing notice pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a), the state agency shall take one of the following actions:(1) Schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346).(2) Deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing. (b)(c) A state agency may grant or deny the petition in whole or in part, and may grant any other relief or take any other action as it may determine to be warranted by the petition and shall notify the petitioner in writing of this action.(c)(d) Any interested person may request a reconsideration of any part or all of a decision of any agency on any petition submitted. The request shall be submitted in accordance with Section 11340.6 and include the reason or reasons why an agency should reconsider its previous decision no later than 60 days after the date of the decision involved. The agencys reconsideration of any matter relating to a petition shall be subject to subdivision (a).(d)(e) Any decision of a state agency denying in whole or in part or granting in whole or in part a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346) shall be in writing and shall be transmitted to the Office of Administrative Law for publication in the California Regulatory Notice Register at the earliest practicable date. The decision shall identify the agency, the party submitting the petition, the provisions of the California Code of Regulations requested to be affected, reference to authority to take the action requested, the reasons supporting the agency determination, an agency contact person, and the right of interested persons to obtain a copy of the petition from the agency.
159167
160168
161169
162-11340.7. (a) Upon receipt of a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346), a state agency shall do both of the following:
170+11340.7. (a) Upon receipt of a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346), a state agency shall notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt and shall within 30 days deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing or schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of that article. shall do both of the following:
163171
164172 (1) (A) Forward a copy of the petition to the Small Business Advocate, appointed pursuant to Section 12098.3, and the related agency liaison, appointed pursuant to Section 11148.5 within 30 days.
165173
166174 (B) For each petition submitted by a small business, the advocate and the agency liaison may issue written comments as to the validity of the petition, or recommend alternative actions to resolve or mitigate issues identified in the petition.
167175
168176 (C) The advocate and the agency liaison shall offer to have at least one meeting with the petitioner to discuss the content of the petition.
169177
170178 (2) Notify the petitioner in writing of the receipt of the petition within 30 days.
171179
172180 (b) Within 30 days of providing notice pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a), the state agency shall take one of the following actions:
173181
174182 (1) Schedule the matter for public hearing in accordance with the notice and hearing requirements of Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346).
175183
176184 (2) Deny the petition indicating why the agency has reached its decision on the merits of the petition in writing.
177185
186+(b)
187+
188+
189+
178190 (c) A state agency may grant or deny the petition in whole or in part, and may grant any other relief or take any other action as it may determine to be warranted by the petition and shall notify the petitioner in writing of this action.
191+
192+(c)
193+
194+
179195
180196 (d) Any interested person may request a reconsideration of any part or all of a decision of any agency on any petition submitted. The request shall be submitted in accordance with Section 11340.6 and include the reason or reasons why an agency should reconsider its previous decision no later than 60 days after the date of the decision involved. The agencys reconsideration of any matter relating to a petition shall be subject to subdivision (a).
181197
198+(d)
199+
200+
201+
182202 (e) Any decision of a state agency denying in whole or in part or granting in whole or in part a petition requesting the adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation pursuant to Article 5 (commencing with Section 11346) shall be in writing and shall be transmitted to the Office of Administrative Law for publication in the California Regulatory Notice Register at the earliest practicable date. The decision shall identify the agency, the party submitting the petition, the provisions of the California Code of Regulations requested to be affected, reference to authority to take the action requested, the reasons supporting the agency determination, an agency contact person, and the right of interested persons to obtain a copy of the petition from the agency.
183203
184-SEC. 6. Section 12098.3 of the Government Code is amended to read:12098.3. (a) The Small Business Advocate shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Governor.(b) The Governor shall appoint the employees who are needed to accomplish the purposes of this article.(c) The duties and functions of the advocate shall include all of the following:(1) Serve as the principal advocate in the state on behalf of small businesses, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation and administrative regulations that affect small businesses, and advocacy on state policy and programs related to small businesses.(2) Represent the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small business.(3) Enlist the cooperation and assistance of public and private agencies, businesses, and other organizations in disseminating information about the programs and services provided by state government that are of benefit to small businesses, and information on how small businesses can participate in, or make use of, those programs and services.(4) Consult with experts and authorities in the fields of small business investment, venture capital investment, and commercial banking and other comparable financial institutions involved in the financing of business, and with individuals with regulatory, legal, economic, or financial expertise, including members of the academic community, and individuals who generally represent the public interest.(5) Seek the assistance and cooperation of all state agencies and departments providing services to, or affecting, small business, including the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, to ensure coordination of state efforts.(6) Receive and respond to complaints from small businesses concerning the actions of state agencies and the operative effects of state laws and regulations adversely affecting those businesses.(7) Counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of small business to state government.(8) Collaborate with the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services in their activities under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act (Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 14835) of Part 5.5), including, but not limited to, promoting small business certification and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business participation.(9) Maintain, publicize, and distribute an annual list of persons serving as small business advocate throughout state government.(10) (A) Provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(B) Counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive petitions from small businesses.
204+SEC. 6. Section 12098.3 of the Government Code is amended to read:12098.3. (a) The Small Business Advocate shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Governor.(b) The Governor shall appoint the employees who are needed to accomplish the purposes of this article.(c) The duties and functions of the advocate shall include all of the following:(1) Serve as the principal advocate in the state on behalf of small businesses, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation and administrative regulations that affect small businesses, and advocacy on state policy and programs related to small businesses.(2) Represent the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small business.(3) Enlist the cooperation and assistance of public and private agencies, businesses, and other organizations in disseminating information about the programs and services provided by state government that are of benefit to small businesses, and information on how small businesses can participate in, or make use of, those programs and services.(4) Consult with experts and authorities in the fields of small business investment, venture capital investment, and commercial banking and other comparable financial institutions involved in the financing of business, and with individuals with regulatory, legal, economic, or financial expertise, including members of the academic community, and individuals who generally represent the public interest.(5) Seek the assistance and cooperation of all state agencies and departments providing services to, or affecting, small business, including the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 14846, 11148.5, to ensure coordination of state efforts.(6) Receive and respond to complaints from small businesses concerning the actions of state agencies and the operative effects of state laws and regulations adversely affecting those businesses.(7) Counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of small business to state government.(8) Collaborate with the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services in their activities under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act (Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 14835) of Part 5.5), including, but not limited to, promoting small business certification and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business participation. Among other activities, the advocate shall maintain,(9) Maintain, publicize, and distribute an annual list of persons serving as small business ombudsperson advocate throughout state government.(10) (A) Provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(B) Counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive petitions from small businesses.
185205
186206 SEC. 6. Section 12098.3 of the Government Code is amended to read:
187207
188208 ### SEC. 6.
189209
190-12098.3. (a) The Small Business Advocate shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Governor.(b) The Governor shall appoint the employees who are needed to accomplish the purposes of this article.(c) The duties and functions of the advocate shall include all of the following:(1) Serve as the principal advocate in the state on behalf of small businesses, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation and administrative regulations that affect small businesses, and advocacy on state policy and programs related to small businesses.(2) Represent the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small business.(3) Enlist the cooperation and assistance of public and private agencies, businesses, and other organizations in disseminating information about the programs and services provided by state government that are of benefit to small businesses, and information on how small businesses can participate in, or make use of, those programs and services.(4) Consult with experts and authorities in the fields of small business investment, venture capital investment, and commercial banking and other comparable financial institutions involved in the financing of business, and with individuals with regulatory, legal, economic, or financial expertise, including members of the academic community, and individuals who generally represent the public interest.(5) Seek the assistance and cooperation of all state agencies and departments providing services to, or affecting, small business, including the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, to ensure coordination of state efforts.(6) Receive and respond to complaints from small businesses concerning the actions of state agencies and the operative effects of state laws and regulations adversely affecting those businesses.(7) Counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of small business to state government.(8) Collaborate with the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services in their activities under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act (Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 14835) of Part 5.5), including, but not limited to, promoting small business certification and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business participation.(9) Maintain, publicize, and distribute an annual list of persons serving as small business advocate throughout state government.(10) (A) Provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(B) Counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive petitions from small businesses.
210+12098.3. (a) The Small Business Advocate shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Governor.(b) The Governor shall appoint the employees who are needed to accomplish the purposes of this article.(c) The duties and functions of the advocate shall include all of the following:(1) Serve as the principal advocate in the state on behalf of small businesses, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation and administrative regulations that affect small businesses, and advocacy on state policy and programs related to small businesses.(2) Represent the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small business.(3) Enlist the cooperation and assistance of public and private agencies, businesses, and other organizations in disseminating information about the programs and services provided by state government that are of benefit to small businesses, and information on how small businesses can participate in, or make use of, those programs and services.(4) Consult with experts and authorities in the fields of small business investment, venture capital investment, and commercial banking and other comparable financial institutions involved in the financing of business, and with individuals with regulatory, legal, economic, or financial expertise, including members of the academic community, and individuals who generally represent the public interest.(5) Seek the assistance and cooperation of all state agencies and departments providing services to, or affecting, small business, including the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 14846, 11148.5, to ensure coordination of state efforts.(6) Receive and respond to complaints from small businesses concerning the actions of state agencies and the operative effects of state laws and regulations adversely affecting those businesses.(7) Counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of small business to state government.(8) Collaborate with the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services in their activities under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act (Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 14835) of Part 5.5), including, but not limited to, promoting small business certification and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business participation. Among other activities, the advocate shall maintain,(9) Maintain, publicize, and distribute an annual list of persons serving as small business ombudsperson advocate throughout state government.(10) (A) Provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(B) Counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive petitions from small businesses.
191211
192-12098.3. (a) The Small Business Advocate shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Governor.(b) The Governor shall appoint the employees who are needed to accomplish the purposes of this article.(c) The duties and functions of the advocate shall include all of the following:(1) Serve as the principal advocate in the state on behalf of small businesses, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation and administrative regulations that affect small businesses, and advocacy on state policy and programs related to small businesses.(2) Represent the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small business.(3) Enlist the cooperation and assistance of public and private agencies, businesses, and other organizations in disseminating information about the programs and services provided by state government that are of benefit to small businesses, and information on how small businesses can participate in, or make use of, those programs and services.(4) Consult with experts and authorities in the fields of small business investment, venture capital investment, and commercial banking and other comparable financial institutions involved in the financing of business, and with individuals with regulatory, legal, economic, or financial expertise, including members of the academic community, and individuals who generally represent the public interest.(5) Seek the assistance and cooperation of all state agencies and departments providing services to, or affecting, small business, including the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, to ensure coordination of state efforts.(6) Receive and respond to complaints from small businesses concerning the actions of state agencies and the operative effects of state laws and regulations adversely affecting those businesses.(7) Counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of small business to state government.(8) Collaborate with the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services in their activities under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act (Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 14835) of Part 5.5), including, but not limited to, promoting small business certification and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business participation.(9) Maintain, publicize, and distribute an annual list of persons serving as small business advocate throughout state government.(10) (A) Provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(B) Counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive petitions from small businesses.
212+12098.3. (a) The Small Business Advocate shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Governor.(b) The Governor shall appoint the employees who are needed to accomplish the purposes of this article.(c) The duties and functions of the advocate shall include all of the following:(1) Serve as the principal advocate in the state on behalf of small businesses, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation and administrative regulations that affect small businesses, and advocacy on state policy and programs related to small businesses.(2) Represent the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small business.(3) Enlist the cooperation and assistance of public and private agencies, businesses, and other organizations in disseminating information about the programs and services provided by state government that are of benefit to small businesses, and information on how small businesses can participate in, or make use of, those programs and services.(4) Consult with experts and authorities in the fields of small business investment, venture capital investment, and commercial banking and other comparable financial institutions involved in the financing of business, and with individuals with regulatory, legal, economic, or financial expertise, including members of the academic community, and individuals who generally represent the public interest.(5) Seek the assistance and cooperation of all state agencies and departments providing services to, or affecting, small business, including the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 14846, 11148.5, to ensure coordination of state efforts.(6) Receive and respond to complaints from small businesses concerning the actions of state agencies and the operative effects of state laws and regulations adversely affecting those businesses.(7) Counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of small business to state government.(8) Collaborate with the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services in their activities under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act (Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 14835) of Part 5.5), including, but not limited to, promoting small business certification and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business participation. Among other activities, the advocate shall maintain,(9) Maintain, publicize, and distribute an annual list of persons serving as small business ombudsperson advocate throughout state government.(10) (A) Provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(B) Counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive petitions from small businesses.
193213
194-12098.3. (a) The Small Business Advocate shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Governor.(b) The Governor shall appoint the employees who are needed to accomplish the purposes of this article.(c) The duties and functions of the advocate shall include all of the following:(1) Serve as the principal advocate in the state on behalf of small businesses, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation and administrative regulations that affect small businesses, and advocacy on state policy and programs related to small businesses.(2) Represent the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small business.(3) Enlist the cooperation and assistance of public and private agencies, businesses, and other organizations in disseminating information about the programs and services provided by state government that are of benefit to small businesses, and information on how small businesses can participate in, or make use of, those programs and services.(4) Consult with experts and authorities in the fields of small business investment, venture capital investment, and commercial banking and other comparable financial institutions involved in the financing of business, and with individuals with regulatory, legal, economic, or financial expertise, including members of the academic community, and individuals who generally represent the public interest.(5) Seek the assistance and cooperation of all state agencies and departments providing services to, or affecting, small business, including the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, to ensure coordination of state efforts.(6) Receive and respond to complaints from small businesses concerning the actions of state agencies and the operative effects of state laws and regulations adversely affecting those businesses.(7) Counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of small business to state government.(8) Collaborate with the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services in their activities under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act (Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 14835) of Part 5.5), including, but not limited to, promoting small business certification and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business participation.(9) Maintain, publicize, and distribute an annual list of persons serving as small business advocate throughout state government.(10) (A) Provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(B) Counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive petitions from small businesses.
214+12098.3. (a) The Small Business Advocate shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Governor.(b) The Governor shall appoint the employees who are needed to accomplish the purposes of this article.(c) The duties and functions of the advocate shall include all of the following:(1) Serve as the principal advocate in the state on behalf of small businesses, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation and administrative regulations that affect small businesses, and advocacy on state policy and programs related to small businesses.(2) Represent the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small business.(3) Enlist the cooperation and assistance of public and private agencies, businesses, and other organizations in disseminating information about the programs and services provided by state government that are of benefit to small businesses, and information on how small businesses can participate in, or make use of, those programs and services.(4) Consult with experts and authorities in the fields of small business investment, venture capital investment, and commercial banking and other comparable financial institutions involved in the financing of business, and with individuals with regulatory, legal, economic, or financial expertise, including members of the academic community, and individuals who generally represent the public interest.(5) Seek the assistance and cooperation of all state agencies and departments providing services to, or affecting, small business, including the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 14846, 11148.5, to ensure coordination of state efforts.(6) Receive and respond to complaints from small businesses concerning the actions of state agencies and the operative effects of state laws and regulations adversely affecting those businesses.(7) Counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of small business to state government.(8) Collaborate with the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services in their activities under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act (Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 14835) of Part 5.5), including, but not limited to, promoting small business certification and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business participation. Among other activities, the advocate shall maintain,(9) Maintain, publicize, and distribute an annual list of persons serving as small business ombudsperson advocate throughout state government.(10) (A) Provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.(B) Counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive petitions from small businesses.
195215
196216
197217
198218 12098.3. (a) The Small Business Advocate shall be appointed by, and shall serve at the pleasure of, the Governor.
199219
200220 (b) The Governor shall appoint the employees who are needed to accomplish the purposes of this article.
201221
202222 (c) The duties and functions of the advocate shall include all of the following:
203223
204224 (1) Serve as the principal advocate in the state on behalf of small businesses, including, but not limited to, advisory participation in the consideration of all legislation and administrative regulations that affect small businesses, and advocacy on state policy and programs related to small businesses.
205225
206226 (2) Represent the views and interests of small businesses before other state agencies whose policies and activities may affect small business.
207227
208228 (3) Enlist the cooperation and assistance of public and private agencies, businesses, and other organizations in disseminating information about the programs and services provided by state government that are of benefit to small businesses, and information on how small businesses can participate in, or make use of, those programs and services.
209229
210230 (4) Consult with experts and authorities in the fields of small business investment, venture capital investment, and commercial banking and other comparable financial institutions involved in the financing of business, and with individuals with regulatory, legal, economic, or financial expertise, including members of the academic community, and individuals who generally represent the public interest.
211231
212-(5) Seek the assistance and cooperation of all state agencies and departments providing services to, or affecting, small business, including the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, to ensure coordination of state efforts.
232+(5) Seek the assistance and cooperation of all state agencies and departments providing services to, or affecting, small business, including the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 14846, 11148.5, to ensure coordination of state efforts.
213233
214234 (6) Receive and respond to complaints from small businesses concerning the actions of state agencies and the operative effects of state laws and regulations adversely affecting those businesses.
215235
216236 (7) Counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of small business to state government.
217237
218-(8) Collaborate with the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services in their activities under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act (Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 14835) of Part 5.5), including, but not limited to, promoting small business certification and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business participation.
238+(8) Collaborate with the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services in their activities under the Small Business Procurement and Contract Act (Chapter 6.5 (commencing with Section 14835) of Part 5.5), including, but not limited to, promoting small business certification and undertaking reasonable means to assist state agencies in improving small business participation. Among other activities, the advocate shall maintain,
219239
220-(9) Maintain, publicize, and distribute an annual list of persons serving as small business advocate throughout state government.
240+(9) Maintain, publicize, and distribute an annual list of persons serving as small business ombudsperson advocate throughout state government.
221241
222242 (10) (A) Provide technical advice and assist small businesses in filing petitions pursuant to Section 11340.6.
223243
224244 (B) Counsel and offer recommendations to state agencies who receive petitions from small businesses.
225245
226-SEC. 7. Section 12098.4 of the Government Code is amended to read:12098.4. (a) Each agency of the state shall furnish to the advocate the reports, documents, and information that are public records and that the advocate deems necessary to carry out the advocates functions under this chapter.(b) (1) The advocate shall prepare and submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that describes the activities and recommendations of the office.(2) The report shall, at a minimum, include an identification of all of the following:(A) The number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, and the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846.(B) The number and nature of outreach efforts of state agencies and, where appropriate, specific departments, that significantly regulate small businesses to assist minority and other small business enterprises.(C) The number and nature of petitions referred to the office pursuant to Section 11340.6. 11340.7.(3) The report shall make recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.(c) (1) The advocate may establish a centralized interactive telephone referral system and internet website to assist small and minority businesses in their operations, including governmental requirements, such as taxation, accounting, and pollution control, and to provide information concerning the agency from which more specialized assistance may be obtained.(2) The advocate shall post on the GO-Biz internet website or the advocates internet website:(A) Information on how to receive assistance in identifying and understanding the states regulatory requirements. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5 to assist small businesses with understanding and adhering to the regulatory requirements of the state entities in which they serve.(ii) The internet website developed and maintained by GO-Biz to identify licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, pursuant to the requirements of Section 12097.1(B) Information on how to receive assistance in certifying as a small business and identifying and participating in state procurement opportunities. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846 to assist small businesses in contracting with the state entities in which they serve.(ii) Contact information for the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services established pursuant to Section 14839.(C) Information about emergency preparedness, responses to emergencies, and recovery strategies for small businesses. This information shall be developed and updated in consultation with relevant state agencies and emergency responders.(D) A link to the Energy Upgrade California internet website to assist small business owners in accessing information on the availability of various programs promoting the efficient use of energy.(E) Information on programs administered through the statewide network of small business financial development corporations. Programs covered shall include loan guarantees, direct lending, surety bond guarantees, and disaster loans. Information shall be presented in a manner appropriate to address the needs of both small businesses and existing and potential financial institutions and financial companies.(F) Information on how to identify and access services provided through the statewide network of small business technical assistance centers, including, but not limited to, small business development centers, women business centers, veteran business outreach centers, procurement technical assistance centers, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership.
246+SEC. 7. Section 12098.4 of the Government Code is amended to read:12098.4. (a) Each agency of the state shall furnish to the advocate the reports, documents, and information that are public records and that the advocate deems necessary to carry out his or her the advocates functions under this chapter.(b) (1) The advocate shall prepare and submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that describes the activities and recommendations of the office, including an evaluation of the office.(2) The report shall, at a minimum, include an identification of all of the following:(A) The number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, and the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846.(B) The number and nature of outreach efforts of state agencies and, where appropriate, specific departments, that significantly regulate small businesses to assist minority and other small business enterprises, and making recommendations enterprises.(C) The number and nature of petitions referred to the office pursuant to Section 11340.6.(3) The report shall make recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.(c) (1) The advocate may establish a centralized interactive telephone referral system and Internet Web site internet website to assist small and minority businesses in their operations, including governmental requirements, such as taxation, accounting, and pollution control, and to provide information concerning the agency from which more specialized assistance may be obtained.(2) The advocate shall post on the GO-Biz Internet Web site internet website or the advocates Internet Web site: internet website:(A) Information on how to receive assistance in identifying and understanding the states regulatory requirements. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, Internet Web site, internet website, and email of the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5 to assist small businesses with understanding and adhering to the regulatory requirements of the state entities in which they serve.(ii) The Internet Web site internet website developed and maintained by GO-Biz to identify licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, pursuant to the requirements of Section 12097.1(B) Information on how to receive assistance in certifying as a small business and identifying and participating in state procurement opportunities. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, Internet Web site, internet website, and email of the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846 to assist small businesses in contracting with the state entities in which they serve.(ii) Contact information for the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services established pursuant to Section 14839.(C) Information about emergency preparedness, responses to emergencies, and recovery strategies for small businesses. This information shall be developed and updated in consultation with relevant state agencies and emergency responders.(D) A link to the Energy Upgrade California Internet Web site internet website to assist small business owners in accessing information on the availability of various programs promoting the efficient use of energy.(E) Information on programs administered through the statewide network of small business financial development corporations. Programs covered shall include loan guarantees, direct lending, surety bond guarantees, and disaster loans. Information shall be presented in a manner appropriate to address the needs of both small businesses and existing and potential financial institutions and financial companies.(F) Information on how to identify and access services provided through the statewide network of small business technical assistance centers, including, but not limited to, small business development centers, women business centers, veteran business outreach centers, procurement technical assistance centers, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership.
227247
228248 SEC. 7. Section 12098.4 of the Government Code is amended to read:
229249
230250 ### SEC. 7.
231251
232-12098.4. (a) Each agency of the state shall furnish to the advocate the reports, documents, and information that are public records and that the advocate deems necessary to carry out the advocates functions under this chapter.(b) (1) The advocate shall prepare and submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that describes the activities and recommendations of the office.(2) The report shall, at a minimum, include an identification of all of the following:(A) The number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, and the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846.(B) The number and nature of outreach efforts of state agencies and, where appropriate, specific departments, that significantly regulate small businesses to assist minority and other small business enterprises.(C) The number and nature of petitions referred to the office pursuant to Section 11340.6. 11340.7.(3) The report shall make recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.(c) (1) The advocate may establish a centralized interactive telephone referral system and internet website to assist small and minority businesses in their operations, including governmental requirements, such as taxation, accounting, and pollution control, and to provide information concerning the agency from which more specialized assistance may be obtained.(2) The advocate shall post on the GO-Biz internet website or the advocates internet website:(A) Information on how to receive assistance in identifying and understanding the states regulatory requirements. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5 to assist small businesses with understanding and adhering to the regulatory requirements of the state entities in which they serve.(ii) The internet website developed and maintained by GO-Biz to identify licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, pursuant to the requirements of Section 12097.1(B) Information on how to receive assistance in certifying as a small business and identifying and participating in state procurement opportunities. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846 to assist small businesses in contracting with the state entities in which they serve.(ii) Contact information for the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services established pursuant to Section 14839.(C) Information about emergency preparedness, responses to emergencies, and recovery strategies for small businesses. This information shall be developed and updated in consultation with relevant state agencies and emergency responders.(D) A link to the Energy Upgrade California internet website to assist small business owners in accessing information on the availability of various programs promoting the efficient use of energy.(E) Information on programs administered through the statewide network of small business financial development corporations. Programs covered shall include loan guarantees, direct lending, surety bond guarantees, and disaster loans. Information shall be presented in a manner appropriate to address the needs of both small businesses and existing and potential financial institutions and financial companies.(F) Information on how to identify and access services provided through the statewide network of small business technical assistance centers, including, but not limited to, small business development centers, women business centers, veteran business outreach centers, procurement technical assistance centers, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership.
252+12098.4. (a) Each agency of the state shall furnish to the advocate the reports, documents, and information that are public records and that the advocate deems necessary to carry out his or her the advocates functions under this chapter.(b) (1) The advocate shall prepare and submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that describes the activities and recommendations of the office, including an evaluation of the office.(2) The report shall, at a minimum, include an identification of all of the following:(A) The number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, and the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846.(B) The number and nature of outreach efforts of state agencies and, where appropriate, specific departments, that significantly regulate small businesses to assist minority and other small business enterprises, and making recommendations enterprises.(C) The number and nature of petitions referred to the office pursuant to Section 11340.6.(3) The report shall make recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.(c) (1) The advocate may establish a centralized interactive telephone referral system and Internet Web site internet website to assist small and minority businesses in their operations, including governmental requirements, such as taxation, accounting, and pollution control, and to provide information concerning the agency from which more specialized assistance may be obtained.(2) The advocate shall post on the GO-Biz Internet Web site internet website or the advocates Internet Web site: internet website:(A) Information on how to receive assistance in identifying and understanding the states regulatory requirements. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, Internet Web site, internet website, and email of the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5 to assist small businesses with understanding and adhering to the regulatory requirements of the state entities in which they serve.(ii) The Internet Web site internet website developed and maintained by GO-Biz to identify licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, pursuant to the requirements of Section 12097.1(B) Information on how to receive assistance in certifying as a small business and identifying and participating in state procurement opportunities. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, Internet Web site, internet website, and email of the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846 to assist small businesses in contracting with the state entities in which they serve.(ii) Contact information for the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services established pursuant to Section 14839.(C) Information about emergency preparedness, responses to emergencies, and recovery strategies for small businesses. This information shall be developed and updated in consultation with relevant state agencies and emergency responders.(D) A link to the Energy Upgrade California Internet Web site internet website to assist small business owners in accessing information on the availability of various programs promoting the efficient use of energy.(E) Information on programs administered through the statewide network of small business financial development corporations. Programs covered shall include loan guarantees, direct lending, surety bond guarantees, and disaster loans. Information shall be presented in a manner appropriate to address the needs of both small businesses and existing and potential financial institutions and financial companies.(F) Information on how to identify and access services provided through the statewide network of small business technical assistance centers, including, but not limited to, small business development centers, women business centers, veteran business outreach centers, procurement technical assistance centers, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership.
233253
234-12098.4. (a) Each agency of the state shall furnish to the advocate the reports, documents, and information that are public records and that the advocate deems necessary to carry out the advocates functions under this chapter.(b) (1) The advocate shall prepare and submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that describes the activities and recommendations of the office.(2) The report shall, at a minimum, include an identification of all of the following:(A) The number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, and the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846.(B) The number and nature of outreach efforts of state agencies and, where appropriate, specific departments, that significantly regulate small businesses to assist minority and other small business enterprises.(C) The number and nature of petitions referred to the office pursuant to Section 11340.6. 11340.7.(3) The report shall make recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.(c) (1) The advocate may establish a centralized interactive telephone referral system and internet website to assist small and minority businesses in their operations, including governmental requirements, such as taxation, accounting, and pollution control, and to provide information concerning the agency from which more specialized assistance may be obtained.(2) The advocate shall post on the GO-Biz internet website or the advocates internet website:(A) Information on how to receive assistance in identifying and understanding the states regulatory requirements. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5 to assist small businesses with understanding and adhering to the regulatory requirements of the state entities in which they serve.(ii) The internet website developed and maintained by GO-Biz to identify licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, pursuant to the requirements of Section 12097.1(B) Information on how to receive assistance in certifying as a small business and identifying and participating in state procurement opportunities. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846 to assist small businesses in contracting with the state entities in which they serve.(ii) Contact information for the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services established pursuant to Section 14839.(C) Information about emergency preparedness, responses to emergencies, and recovery strategies for small businesses. This information shall be developed and updated in consultation with relevant state agencies and emergency responders.(D) A link to the Energy Upgrade California internet website to assist small business owners in accessing information on the availability of various programs promoting the efficient use of energy.(E) Information on programs administered through the statewide network of small business financial development corporations. Programs covered shall include loan guarantees, direct lending, surety bond guarantees, and disaster loans. Information shall be presented in a manner appropriate to address the needs of both small businesses and existing and potential financial institutions and financial companies.(F) Information on how to identify and access services provided through the statewide network of small business technical assistance centers, including, but not limited to, small business development centers, women business centers, veteran business outreach centers, procurement technical assistance centers, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership.
254+12098.4. (a) Each agency of the state shall furnish to the advocate the reports, documents, and information that are public records and that the advocate deems necessary to carry out his or her the advocates functions under this chapter.(b) (1) The advocate shall prepare and submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that describes the activities and recommendations of the office, including an evaluation of the office.(2) The report shall, at a minimum, include an identification of all of the following:(A) The number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, and the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846.(B) The number and nature of outreach efforts of state agencies and, where appropriate, specific departments, that significantly regulate small businesses to assist minority and other small business enterprises, and making recommendations enterprises.(C) The number and nature of petitions referred to the office pursuant to Section 11340.6.(3) The report shall make recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.(c) (1) The advocate may establish a centralized interactive telephone referral system and Internet Web site internet website to assist small and minority businesses in their operations, including governmental requirements, such as taxation, accounting, and pollution control, and to provide information concerning the agency from which more specialized assistance may be obtained.(2) The advocate shall post on the GO-Biz Internet Web site internet website or the advocates Internet Web site: internet website:(A) Information on how to receive assistance in identifying and understanding the states regulatory requirements. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, Internet Web site, internet website, and email of the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5 to assist small businesses with understanding and adhering to the regulatory requirements of the state entities in which they serve.(ii) The Internet Web site internet website developed and maintained by GO-Biz to identify licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, pursuant to the requirements of Section 12097.1(B) Information on how to receive assistance in certifying as a small business and identifying and participating in state procurement opportunities. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, Internet Web site, internet website, and email of the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846 to assist small businesses in contracting with the state entities in which they serve.(ii) Contact information for the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services established pursuant to Section 14839.(C) Information about emergency preparedness, responses to emergencies, and recovery strategies for small businesses. This information shall be developed and updated in consultation with relevant state agencies and emergency responders.(D) A link to the Energy Upgrade California Internet Web site internet website to assist small business owners in accessing information on the availability of various programs promoting the efficient use of energy.(E) Information on programs administered through the statewide network of small business financial development corporations. Programs covered shall include loan guarantees, direct lending, surety bond guarantees, and disaster loans. Information shall be presented in a manner appropriate to address the needs of both small businesses and existing and potential financial institutions and financial companies.(F) Information on how to identify and access services provided through the statewide network of small business technical assistance centers, including, but not limited to, small business development centers, women business centers, veteran business outreach centers, procurement technical assistance centers, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership.
235255
236-12098.4. (a) Each agency of the state shall furnish to the advocate the reports, documents, and information that are public records and that the advocate deems necessary to carry out the advocates functions under this chapter.(b) (1) The advocate shall prepare and submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that describes the activities and recommendations of the office.(2) The report shall, at a minimum, include an identification of all of the following:(A) The number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, and the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846.(B) The number and nature of outreach efforts of state agencies and, where appropriate, specific departments, that significantly regulate small businesses to assist minority and other small business enterprises.(C) The number and nature of petitions referred to the office pursuant to Section 11340.6. 11340.7.(3) The report shall make recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.(c) (1) The advocate may establish a centralized interactive telephone referral system and internet website to assist small and minority businesses in their operations, including governmental requirements, such as taxation, accounting, and pollution control, and to provide information concerning the agency from which more specialized assistance may be obtained.(2) The advocate shall post on the GO-Biz internet website or the advocates internet website:(A) Information on how to receive assistance in identifying and understanding the states regulatory requirements. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5 to assist small businesses with understanding and adhering to the regulatory requirements of the state entities in which they serve.(ii) The internet website developed and maintained by GO-Biz to identify licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, pursuant to the requirements of Section 12097.1(B) Information on how to receive assistance in certifying as a small business and identifying and participating in state procurement opportunities. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846 to assist small businesses in contracting with the state entities in which they serve.(ii) Contact information for the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services established pursuant to Section 14839.(C) Information about emergency preparedness, responses to emergencies, and recovery strategies for small businesses. This information shall be developed and updated in consultation with relevant state agencies and emergency responders.(D) A link to the Energy Upgrade California internet website to assist small business owners in accessing information on the availability of various programs promoting the efficient use of energy.(E) Information on programs administered through the statewide network of small business financial development corporations. Programs covered shall include loan guarantees, direct lending, surety bond guarantees, and disaster loans. Information shall be presented in a manner appropriate to address the needs of both small businesses and existing and potential financial institutions and financial companies.(F) Information on how to identify and access services provided through the statewide network of small business technical assistance centers, including, but not limited to, small business development centers, women business centers, veteran business outreach centers, procurement technical assistance centers, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership.
256+12098.4. (a) Each agency of the state shall furnish to the advocate the reports, documents, and information that are public records and that the advocate deems necessary to carry out his or her the advocates functions under this chapter.(b) (1) The advocate shall prepare and submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that describes the activities and recommendations of the office, including an evaluation of the office.(2) The report shall, at a minimum, include an identification of all of the following:(A) The number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, and the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846.(B) The number and nature of outreach efforts of state agencies and, where appropriate, specific departments, that significantly regulate small businesses to assist minority and other small business enterprises, and making recommendations enterprises.(C) The number and nature of petitions referred to the office pursuant to Section 11340.6.(3) The report shall make recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.(c) (1) The advocate may establish a centralized interactive telephone referral system and Internet Web site internet website to assist small and minority businesses in their operations, including governmental requirements, such as taxation, accounting, and pollution control, and to provide information concerning the agency from which more specialized assistance may be obtained.(2) The advocate shall post on the GO-Biz Internet Web site internet website or the advocates Internet Web site: internet website:(A) Information on how to receive assistance in identifying and understanding the states regulatory requirements. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, Internet Web site, internet website, and email of the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5 to assist small businesses with understanding and adhering to the regulatory requirements of the state entities in which they serve.(ii) The Internet Web site internet website developed and maintained by GO-Biz to identify licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, pursuant to the requirements of Section 12097.1(B) Information on how to receive assistance in certifying as a small business and identifying and participating in state procurement opportunities. This information shall include:(i) The name, telephone number, Internet Web site, internet website, and email of the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846 to assist small businesses in contracting with the state entities in which they serve.(ii) Contact information for the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services established pursuant to Section 14839.(C) Information about emergency preparedness, responses to emergencies, and recovery strategies for small businesses. This information shall be developed and updated in consultation with relevant state agencies and emergency responders.(D) A link to the Energy Upgrade California Internet Web site internet website to assist small business owners in accessing information on the availability of various programs promoting the efficient use of energy.(E) Information on programs administered through the statewide network of small business financial development corporations. Programs covered shall include loan guarantees, direct lending, surety bond guarantees, and disaster loans. Information shall be presented in a manner appropriate to address the needs of both small businesses and existing and potential financial institutions and financial companies.(F) Information on how to identify and access services provided through the statewide network of small business technical assistance centers, including, but not limited to, small business development centers, women business centers, veteran business outreach centers, procurement technical assistance centers, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership.
237257
238258
239259
240-12098.4. (a) Each agency of the state shall furnish to the advocate the reports, documents, and information that are public records and that the advocate deems necessary to carry out the advocates functions under this chapter.
260+12098.4. (a) Each agency of the state shall furnish to the advocate the reports, documents, and information that are public records and that the advocate deems necessary to carry out his or her the advocates functions under this chapter.
241261
242-(b) (1) The advocate shall prepare and submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that describes the activities and recommendations of the office.
262+(b) (1) The advocate shall prepare and submit a written annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature that describes the activities and recommendations of the office, including an evaluation of the office.
243263
244264 (2) The report shall, at a minimum, include an identification of all of the following:
245265
246266 (A) The number and the nature of complaints filed with or referred to the office, small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5, and the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846.
247267
248-(B) The number and nature of outreach efforts of state agencies and, where appropriate, specific departments, that significantly regulate small businesses to assist minority and other small business enterprises.
268+(B) The number and nature of outreach efforts of state agencies and, where appropriate, specific departments, that significantly regulate small businesses to assist minority and other small business enterprises, and making recommendations enterprises.
249269
250-(C) The number and nature of petitions referred to the office pursuant to Section 11340.6. 11340.7.
270+(C) The number and nature of petitions referred to the office pursuant to Section 11340.6.
251271
252272 (3) The report shall make recommendations on new state activities or modifications on current state activities that may be appropriate to assist the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises.
253273
254-(c) (1) The advocate may establish a centralized interactive telephone referral system and internet website to assist small and minority businesses in their operations, including governmental requirements, such as taxation, accounting, and pollution control, and to provide information concerning the agency from which more specialized assistance may be obtained.
274+(c) (1) The advocate may establish a centralized interactive telephone referral system and Internet Web site internet website to assist small and minority businesses in their operations, including governmental requirements, such as taxation, accounting, and pollution control, and to provide information concerning the agency from which more specialized assistance may be obtained.
255275
256-(2) The advocate shall post on the GO-Biz internet website or the advocates internet website:
276+(2) The advocate shall post on the GO-Biz Internet Web site internet website or the advocates Internet Web site: internet website:
257277
258278 (A) Information on how to receive assistance in identifying and understanding the states regulatory requirements. This information shall include:
259279
260-(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5 to assist small businesses with understanding and adhering to the regulatory requirements of the state entities in which they serve.
280+(i) The name, telephone number, Internet Web site, internet website, and email of the small business liaison designated pursuant to Section 11148.5 to assist small businesses with understanding and adhering to the regulatory requirements of the state entities in which they serve.
261281
262-(ii) The internet website developed and maintained by GO-Biz to identify licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, pursuant to the requirements of Section 12097.1
282+(ii) The Internet Web site internet website developed and maintained by GO-Biz to identify licensing, permitting, and registration requirements of state agencies, pursuant to the requirements of Section 12097.1
263283
264284 (B) Information on how to receive assistance in certifying as a small business and identifying and participating in state procurement opportunities. This information shall include:
265285
266-(i) The name, telephone number, internet website, and email of the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846 to assist small businesses in contracting with the state entities in which they serve.
286+(i) The name, telephone number, Internet Web site, internet website, and email of the small business advocate designated pursuant to Section 14846 to assist small businesses in contracting with the state entities in which they serve.
267287
268288 (ii) Contact information for the Office of Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Services established pursuant to Section 14839.
269289
270290 (C) Information about emergency preparedness, responses to emergencies, and recovery strategies for small businesses. This information shall be developed and updated in consultation with relevant state agencies and emergency responders.
271291
272-(D) A link to the Energy Upgrade California internet website to assist small business owners in accessing information on the availability of various programs promoting the efficient use of energy.
292+(D) A link to the Energy Upgrade California Internet Web site internet website to assist small business owners in accessing information on the availability of various programs promoting the efficient use of energy.
273293
274294 (E) Information on programs administered through the statewide network of small business financial development corporations. Programs covered shall include loan guarantees, direct lending, surety bond guarantees, and disaster loans. Information shall be presented in a manner appropriate to address the needs of both small businesses and existing and potential financial institutions and financial companies.
275295
276296 (F) Information on how to identify and access services provided through the statewide network of small business technical assistance centers, including, but not limited to, small business development centers, women business centers, veteran business outreach centers, procurement technical assistance centers, and the Manufacturing Extension Partnership.