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
This legislation is significant in that it codifies the existing Division of Minority and Women Business Development's functions into state law, thereby solidifying its framework and mission. Particularly, it mandates the complete implementation of existing laws regarding the certification of minority and women-owned businesses and eliminates the possibility of self-certification, enhancing the credibility of the certification process. By requiring that every state agency designated a liaison or a disparity officer, the bill also aims to foster greater cooperation among state departments in monitoring contracts and ensuring equitable opportunities.
Summary
Senate Bill 85 establishes a Division of Minority and Women Business Development within the State Department of the Treasury, aimed at enhancing participation by minority-owned and women-owned businesses in state contracting processes. The bill appoints a State Chief Disparity Officer to oversee the division, ensuring that policies and programs actively promote equal opportunities for these enterprises in procurement by state agencies, including independent state authorities. The Chief Disparity Officer will also be responsible for compiling data on contracts awarded to minority and women-owned businesses.
Contention
While the bill is largely focused on promoting inclusivity in state contracting, potential points of contention may arise regarding the operational effectiveness of the Chief Disparity Officer and the Division. Opposition may emerge from businesses that fear the possible bureaucratic hurdles introduced by new reporting requirements and regulations. Additionally, the bill's provisions against self-certification intend to increase accountability, but could also be perceived as creating barriers for smaller businesses attempting to navigate state contracting opportunities.
Same As
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.
Carry Over
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.
Carry Over
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 to increase awarding of contracts procured without advertisement to minority- and women-owned businesses.
Requires State agencies to make good faith effort towards certain goals to use certified minority and women-owned businesses as prime contractors and subcontractors.
Requires public agency receiving State funds to post on website use of State funds for public work contracts with minority, women, and veteran owned businesses.