2016 CA Summit - A Hard Sixth: Keeping California Strong in a Competitive Global Economy

California has the world’s sixth-largest economy. Yet California also has a reputation for having the worst business climate of any U.S. state. A constant drumbeat of news articles, indices and rankings paint a picture of prohibitively high taxes and regulatory barriers that constrict growth and stifle job creation. But on the plus side, the California economy grew 4.1 percent last year, nearly double the national rate, and the state actually has one of the best records for job growth. Where is the disconnect between these two perceptions? Can they both be true? Is California’s business environment really hurting our ability to generate growth and attract new businesses? What can policymakers do to combat both the real and perceived effects of extensive regulation? Moderator Michael Milken, Chairman, Milken Institute Speakers Kevin de León, President pro Tempore, California State Senate Scott Minerd, Managing Partner, Chairman of Investments and Global Chief Investment Officer, Guggenheim Partners Gabriel Petek, Managing Director, U.S. Public Finance, S&P Global Ratings Marcus Thygeson, Chief Health Officer, Blue Shield of California Mimi Walters, U.S. Representative, 45th District, California