COVID-19 and its fallout have been devastating for California’s economy at every level. But low‐income and traditionally marginalized communities have been among the hardest hit. With little savings, a concentration of jobs that were forced to close, and fewer employment alternatives, these vulnerable populations are clearly suffering. Obviously, pro‐growth policies will be needed to restart the state’s economy. But growth will not be enough unless all Californians are fully able to participate. Therefore, particular attention needs to be paid to the impact of the state’s policies on low‐income communities.
This conference, part of Cato’s Project on Poverty and Inequality in California, will bring together a diverse group of political, business, and academic leaders to discuss regulatory and other barriers to rebuilding economic opportunity in poor and minority communities ravaged by COVID-19.
All sessions will be held in Pacific Daylight Time (PDT).
9:30 – 10:30 AM
Panel 1: Economic Growth and Underserved Populations
Julian Cañete, California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce
Jay King, California Black Chamber of Commerce
Rob Lapsley, California Business Roundtable
10:45 – 11:45 AM
Panel 2: Regulatory Reform: The Key to Inclusive Growth
Anastasia P. Boden, Pacific Legal Foundation
Chris Cate, Councilman, City of San Diego
Steven Greenhut, R Street
12:00 – 12:30 PM
Keynote Address
Joel Kotkin, Chapman University
12:30 – 1:00 PM
Closing Speaker
Matt Zwolinski, University of San Diego
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