Establishes Division of Minority and Women Business Development and State Chief Disparity Officer to monitor efforts to promote participation by minority-owned and women-owned businesses in State contracting.
Impact
The establishment of this division is expected to enhance the monitoring of public contracting processes, providing valuable data on the engagement of minority and women-owned businesses in state contracts. The Chief Disparity Officer will be responsible for compiling information related to contract awards, including the overall value and percentage of contracts awarded to these minority groups. This clear framework aims to bridge existing gaps and promote a more inclusive approach to state procurement practices.
Summary
Assembly Bill A5792 seeks to establish a formal structure within the New Jersey State Department of the Treasury to promote participation by minority-owned and women-owned businesses in state contracting. The bill proposes the creation of a Division of Minority and Women Business Development, which will be overseen by a State Chief Disparity Officer. This division is tasked with administering policies and programs aimed at ensuring equal opportunity for these business enterprises in all state purchasing and procurement activities.
Contention
One notable aspect of this bill is its prohibition against self-certification for minority and women-owned businesses. Instead, the process will emphasize standardized certification, aligning with existing laws to ensure that only qualified businesses benefit from state contracts. This aligns with the state’s commitment to compliance with federal laws regarding equality and fair opportunity in commerce. However, details about the implementation process and funding for the division may raise questions about adequacy and effectiveness in achieving these stated goals.
Same As
Establishes Division of Minority and Women Business Development and State Chief Disparity Officer to monitor efforts to promote participation by minority-owned and women-owned businesses in State contracting.
Establishes Division of Minority and Women Business Development and State Chief Disparity Officer to monitor efforts to promote participation by minority-owned and women-owned businesses in State contracting.
Authorizes State Chief Diversity Officer to conduct disparity study concerning utilization of minority-owned and women-owned businesses in State procurement process.
Requires Chief Diversity Officer in Department of Treasury to develop and implement programs to increase utilization of minority-owned and women-owned businesses in State.
Requires State agencies to make good faith effort towards certain goals to use certified minority and women-owned businesses as prime contractors and subcontractors.
Establishes the La. State Contract Minority Business Opportunity Act to increase minority-owned and disadvantaged business participation in state contracting (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)