Assemblymember Frazier Introduces Two Bills Helping Small Businesses

SACRAMENTO (Friday, Feb. 10, 2017) – Assemblymember Jim Frazier (D-Discovery Bay) has introduced two bills, AB 441 and AB 442, to help small businesses in California, demonstrating why he was recently recognized by the California Small Business Association at the “Summa Cum Laude” commitment level, the highest distinction available

“After owning a small business for 30 years, I always keep in mind the difficulty that can come from navigating regulations,” said Frazier. “It’s great to be recognized as an advocate for California’s small businesses, and I look forward to continuing this effort in Sacramento through the legislation I’m carrying this year.”

AB 441 would allow small farm-to-table cafes at existing farm stands (notwithstanding local zoning regulations), creating a venue for agricultural producers to prepare and serve the products they grow. The bill will stimulate tourism in agricultural regions and help growers keep their family farms in operation.

“While trying to open Tess’ Kitchen, I ran into many local regulations that weren’t up to speed with the current trends. After a year of trying to find my own solutions, I told Assemblymember Frazier about my problem and he immediately took action to break down unnecessary roadblocks,” said Barbara Frantz, Owner of Tess’ Kitchen in Brentwood. “Tess’ is a farm-to-table café with food sourced from local farmers and made from scratch. Tess’ believes there should be little places like ours throughout California. Assemblymember Frazier feels the same way and is taking action to make this attainable for small-business dreamers throughout the state.”

AB 442 will help small businesses by giving owners the chance to correct non-serious Cal/OSHA violations before being fined amounts that could potentially force them to close their businesses.

“Assemblymember Frazier appreciates the inherent and external challenges of small-business owners, and understands that small businesses are integral to the community. His commitment to providing timely support at the state regulatory level benefits the local economy,” said Becky Craig, President of the Vacaville Chamber of Commerce. “We are thrilled that Jim will be carrying AB 442, a bill very important to the Vacaville chamber that will provide some relief to small businesses who do not intend to commit minor violations, while simultaneously offering an educational benefit so they do not repeat these offenses.”
AB 441 and AB 442 were introduced today and will be assigned to policy committee shortly.
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Assemblymember Frazier represents the 11th Assembly District, which includes Suisun City. To contact his District Office in Fairfield, call (707) 399-3011.