Capitol Axis

Small business regulation in California: ABC, the Labor Commissioner, Cal/OSHA, and city hall.

Agency decisions shape how policy works in practice. Explore the institutions and policy matters relevant to small business organizations, then discuss the proceedings affecting your business.

Who writes and enforces the rules.

  • Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC)Alcohol licensing, conditions, and enforcement.
  • Labor Commissioner and Cal/OSHAWage, tip, and safety rules that land hardest on small operators.
  • City councils and county boardsBusiness licensing, conditional use permits, local ordinances.

Rulemakings, programs, and enforcement in 2026.

  • Heat illness ruleRulemakingCal/OSHA aligned indoor and outdoor heat standard. Removes an exception some industries relied on. Comments open through September 21, 2026.

The comment period is where the terms get set.

An agency publishes proposed text, takes written comments for at least 45 days, holds a hearing, and may revise and reopen comment before adopting. The Office of Administrative Law then reviews the file. Comments filed on the record, with specific alternative language and evidence, are what an agency has to answer. The small business group files them, appears at workshops and hearings, and keeps the relationships that make informal consultation possible between formal rounds.

Ask the small business group about a rulemaking2025–26 legislation

Discuss your California
policy priorities.

Tell us what is changing for your organization.
We’ll discuss the representation and scope you need.

Contact us