California sees Waymo expansion and business relocation to Texas

California is seeing divergent developments in its business and technology sectors. The California Public Utilities Commission has approved an expansion for Waymo, allowing its driverless taxis to operate in 12 additional counties. This expansion brings Waymo’s footprint to 18 counties, covering much of the state’s population and introducing new markets in Sacramento and San Diego. The approval grants the company latitude to operate across various road types and weather conditions, excluding widespread snow or ice.

In contrast, some businesses are exiting the state due to regulatory and economic pressures. Hil Davis, CEO of Digital Brands Group, relocated his apparel and e-commerce company from Vernon, California, to Round Rock, Texas. Davis cited high taxes, escalating operating expenses, lengthy employee commutes, and a difficult litigation environment as primary reasons for the move, describing the California business climate as difficult to sustain.