California’s Business Climate

Most business persons would agree that this state’s business climate is repressive. From the AQMD to the state Coastal Commission, agencies are suspicious, cumbersome and slow. I’ve experienced public servants who really work for special interests, not the taxpayer. The fiasco called the Assembly can’t even resolve uninsured motorists, let alone the workers’ compensation mess.

The Franchise Tax Board taxes a limited partnership a minimum tax of $800 for “the privilege of doing business in the state,” even if it’s unprofitable. This type of arrogance is so pervasive that it is no wonder firms are leaving in droves.

JOHN K. McMANAMY, Malibu