(April 5, 2005 - Sacramento) - The Assembly Committee on Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy today passed two pieces of legislation designed to cut red-tape for small businesses that wish to be certified by local governments and the state.

Both bills are designed to assist small businesses across the state of California to participate in multiple small business programs by allowing the state to accept a small business certification from any local government in California that uses substantially similar criteria.

"Small businesses are this state's economic generator," said Assemblymember Bass (D-Los Angeles). "Clearing away duplicative and burdensome processes that promote a business friendly environment with state and local entities are essential to both the public and private sector."

AB 854 additionally calls for the state to develop a core statewide small business certification application in coordination with counties, cities, special districts, and other stakeholders.

As AB 854 is similar to AB 348 authored by Assemblymember Juan Arambula (D – Fresno), chair of the Jobs, Economic Development, and the Economy Committee, Assemblymember Bass suggested that the two measures proceed as one bill. Therefore, the committee voted 5-0 in support of AB 348, which will be amended to contain the provisions of both measures.