Elected officials are often known for their work in advocacy and public policy. What many may not be aware of is the array of free business resources available through public offices at the local, county and state level. We had a chance to talk with some of our local elected officials on the resources and assistance they provide the business community.
 
Senator Monique Limón’s office provides direct assistance and in-person support for businesses
 
Senator Monique Limón’s office says they are always there to assist business owners in dealing with the many agencies that make up the California government. “Our office is often able to cut through red tape where constituents may not be able to,” explained Carson Link, District Representative for Senator Monique Limón. “At the very least, we are able to get clarification on the issues business owners may be facing. Many folks are often surprised they can call their elected officials for this kind of assistance.”
 
Link also said they are happy to celebrate grand openings and other milestones with the local business community. “One common function of our office is providing California State Senate certificates to local businesses who have just opened or hit some sort of success milestone,” Link said. “A business need only ask us to attend their event and we are happy to be there. We are also open to touring local businesses that invite us to come see their what they are working on!”
 
Ultimately, Link says their office is there to assist business owners with navigating the California government and be there to support business in any way they can. Additional information on business resources is available at https://sd19.senate.ca.gov/.
 
Congressman Salud Carbajal connects local businesses with federal assistance

Congressman Salud Carbajal says he is here to serve the communities and people who help businesses thrive.
 
The congressman’s office can provide assistance with any Federal Agency including the Small Business Administration, Internal Revenue Service, USCIS, FEMA, the Department of Labor, and others. Additionally, they help coordinate emergency response when federal programs exist to help small businesses get back on their feet after tough times.
 
“Although I cannot override the decisions made by a federal agency, I can often intervene on a person's behalf to answer questions and find solutions.” Carbajal explained. “This can also include my office supporting your business as it navigates federal small business loan programs, federal grants, or tax issues you may be having with the IRS.”
 
Like other local elected officials, Carbajal’s office also can provide certificates of recognition upon requests to honor employees who have done exemplary work, retirements, or business expansions. They can also help track down delayed imports that your company may be needing that are passing through a U.S. port of entry.
 
“Central Coast small businesses are the backbone of our economy. If they are struggling, our communities suffer,” Carbajal explained. “I believe that it is important to hear from local businesses to know their needs, to connect them with resources and help them navigate red tape, and constantly be assessing what federal programs can do to help them succeed.”
 
Additional information is available at https://carbajal.house.gov/ .
 
 State Assemblymember Gregg Hart connects businesses to solutions and grant opportunities

Assemblymember Gregg Hart believes that promoting a healthy business community is critical for creating economic opportunities for working families, championing innovation, and meeting the needs of consumers. “In addition to advancing legislation that is important for our region, my office is also here to help individuals, businesses, community organizations, and local governments receive assistance from State Government agencies,” Hart explained.

The State Assembly office can help businesses with matters pertaining to the State of California, including by helping businesses receive assistance from the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, Franchise Tax Board, Department of Consumer Affairs, and other State agencies. Additionally, Hart says his team can help local nonprofits and businesses identify opportunities for state grant funding opportunities. Visit Grants.CA.Gov for more information. 

You can contact Assemblymember Hart at (805) 564-1649 or Assemblymember.Hart@Assembly.Ca.Gov. You can also visit https://a37.asmdc.org/ for additional information and resources.