Get the Facts

The City will be considering a new ordinance called a Labor Peace Agreement (LPA) that would require businesses on city-owned property to sign a contract with unions as a condition of operating. On paper, it’s meant to avoid labor disputes. In reality, it forces small businesses into costly agreements that most cannot afford. This proposal is being pushed forward without public input, without evidence of a problem, and without an independent economic analysis. Santa Monica’s local businesses, the very ones that give our community its unique character, are the ones who would be hurt most.

Worst Time for New Costs for Local Businesses

Tourism is down 50% since 2019.
This summer has been considered the worse in years even during the pandemic.
Adding new costs now could push many of us out of business.

Public Safety & Economic Strain

Crime is up 16%, and customer safety concerns are hurting foot traffic with incidents being reported regularly in the news.
Between 2020–2023, LA County lost 38,000 small businesses, mostly restaurants, retail, and hospitality. Santa Monica can’t afford to make survival even harder.

Hurts Local Businesses

Disincentivizes local businesses to stay in Santa Monica
Only large chains like HMS Host that operates LAX restaurants could most likely afford to operate.

More Vacancies

Creates disincentives for businesses to open with on city-leased property.

Further Harms City Finances At a Time When the City Declared Fiscal Distress

The Oregon mandated LPA was overturned as unconstitutional and preempted by federal law now pending on appeal.
Moving forward risks expensive lawsuits.

Santa Monica’s Uniqueness at Risk
Our city’s character comes from independent restaurants and shops. LPAs threaten what makes Santa Monica special.

Keep Santa Monica Local.