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March 17, 2008

Take Action Now! Submit Your Letter of Support for Workplace Flexibility Proposal

The Chamber’s Government Affairs Council (GAC) recently voted to support Assembly Bill 2127: Small Business Family Scheduling Option. This legislation would allow small businesses up to 25 employees to develop flexible work schedules within the 40-hour work week structure. This bill, however, would not affect labor unions’ contracts or previously established collective bargaining agreements. GAC also agreed to adopt a “Plan of Action” to get AB 2127 passed.

Click here to take action on AB 2127.

Currently, the standard workplace rules are that employees work 8-hours a day, 40 hours a week. Overtime rules would apply for any additional hour over the 8-hour day. AB 2127 would allow employers and employees to negotiate to work four 10-hour days a week, (or eight nine-hour days and one eight-hour day in two weeks, also known as a 9/80 schedule). This would give small business owners the flexibility needed to maintain a positive work environment while meeting payroll demands.

Workplace flexibility may also help contribute to lowering traffic congestion and air pollution. Work schedules could be developed to allow commuters to avoid peak rush hours where there is heavy idle time. Also a compressed schedule would allow employees to conserve more gas which helps reduce air pollution and saves commuters money.

“We believe since this bill applies exclusively to small businesses, which make up the majority of our membership, it will create a more sound economy in times of a budget deficit where cuts are almost certain.” said Randy Gordon, President and CEO of The Chamber. “Over 80% of The Chamber’s 1,500 members are considered small businesses that would qualify for workplace flexibility under AB 2127,” he continued.”

The Chamber plans to develop a strong grassroots advocacy and education campaign for the bill, targeting local state legislators. Included are lobby days with Assemblymembers Karnette, Furutani, and State Senator Lowenthal; a letter campaign targeting key legislators; and a seminar for Chamber members explaining current laws on workplace flexibility and how AB 2127 would change them.

Long Beach is one of 30 communities selected from across the nation for special targeted efforts to share research and practical guidance on workplace flexibility as a critical ingredient of an effective workplace. Being selected as a When Work Works community presents an excellent opportunity to be a voice for business and as members of a participating community in When Work Works, employers in the greater Long Beach area are encouraged to apply for the prestigious Alfred P. Sloan Awards for Business Excellence in Workplace Flexibility, a premier national recognition program.

More information about When Work Works, as well as research, company profiles, and tips on working flexibly, can be found at www.whenworkworks.org.

Deadline to apply is Monday, April 14 2008. Contact Elisa Margoni for more info at (562) 436-2810 or emargoni@lbchamber.com.
 

Click here to take action on AB 2127.