My name is James Clemmons. I own Bob’s Muffler & Radiator in Bakersfield, CA.  I would like to comment on ab8 and the financial impact it would have on small business.  I have 7 employees, like most small business owners I live day to day just like yourself.  When I read other peoples opinions about the minimum impact that ab8 will have on small businesses I realize that none of these people actually run a small business.  Ab8 will increase my payroll about $3000.00 dollars a month, that is $3000.00 dollars more that I can afford.

I cannot raise my prices because of all the businesses in my area that are hiring illegal aliens and are paying them under the table.  They pay no taxes, workman’s comp, insurance, etc.  Since I cannot raise my prices were is the additional money gong to come from?  If all of a sudden you were hit with a $3000.00 a month bills what would you do.  California is on the verge of running all the small businesses out of business.  Have you noticed that there are no trucking companies based in California, they all left.

Do your want nothing but large companies and no competition from small businesses?  This bill would leave me no choice but to lay off 2 or 3 of my employees and to try to make it with a smaller crew.  Most of the small business owners that I have talked to have told me the same thing, and that they definitely have no intentions of growing any bigger.  A lot of business owners have told me they will start cheating on there taxes and pay there employees under the table to make ends meet.  If you don’t have the money what else can you do? 

I keep reading that it is a shared responsibility.  If that is the case then take 7.25% out of the employee’s paychecks.  Also, if what I am reading about health insurance is correct they expect premiums to triple in the next 5 years.  Nobody is fixing the problem.  The impact on small business would be enormous.  You have no idea what you are talking about.  My only hope is that Arnold will veto the bill.  Remember businesses create jobs.  You can call me at 661 323-0877 for additional information.

James Clemmons