Bill > AB254

This bill establishes the California-Ireland Trade Commission as an advisory body within the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development, recognizing the significant historical and cultural connections between California and Ireland, including the state's large Irish American population. The commission will consist of seven members appointed by the Governor, the Senate President pro Tempore, and the Speaker of the Assembly, including two Senators, two Assembly Members, and three additional members from public higher education, trade organizations, and the Irish American community. The commission's primary purposes include advancing bilateral trade and investment, initiating joint policy actions, promoting business and academic exchanges, encouraging economic support and infrastructure investment, and addressing other mutually beneficial issues. Members will serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for approved expenses. The commission is required to submit annual reports to the Governor and Legislature by February 1st each year, with recommendations for strengthening California-Ireland relations, and the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development will be required to consider these recommendations when updating its international trade and investment strategy. The bill emphasizes the long-standing connections between California and Ireland, highlighting the state's historical Irish immigration, cultural diversity, and potential for future economic collaboration.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB254