Relates to reporting on agency minority and women-owned business development contracts and spending.
Summary
Bill S07177 aims to amend the state finance law by introducing a new section that mandates the New York State Comptroller to publish an annual report on contracts and spending related to minority and women-owned business development. This report will be made publicly available on a dedicated website and will feature an interactive dashboard that allows users to access detailed data regarding contracts awarded to these businesses, categorized by ethnicity and gender. The report will include financial breakdowns for each state agency, the number of prime contractors and subcontractors, and will allow for historical comparisons of data starting from the fiscal year 2017.
Impact
The implementation of this bill will enhance transparency in state contracting processes, particularly concerning minority and women-owned businesses. By requiring detailed reporting and making this information publicly accessible, the bill aims to promote accountability and potentially increase opportunities for these businesses in state contracts. This could lead to more equitable distribution of state resources and support for underrepresented business owners in New York.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill S07177 appears to be positive, with discussions highlighting the importance of transparency and support for minority and women-owned businesses. Stakeholders have expressed that such measures are essential for fostering diversity in state contracting and ensuring that all communities have equitable access to state resources.
Contention
While there is general support for the bill's objectives, some contention may arise regarding the implementation costs and the potential administrative burden on the Comptroller's office to develop and maintain the interactive reporting website. Concerns about the accuracy and reliability of the data collected and reported may also be discussed among legislators and stakeholders.
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.
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 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 to increase awarding of contracts procured without advertisement to minority- and women-owned businesses.
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.