Connecticut House Bill HB05877

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/11
• Refer: 1/24/11

Caption

An Act Concerning The Set-aside Program For Minority Business Enterprises And Establishing A Supplier Diversity Council.

Impact

The bill mandates that the state conducts a disparity study to assess the current landscape of businesses owned by women and minorities, thus providing a data-driven approach to understanding and improving their participation in state contracts. It also suggests the introduction of new certification standards aimed at proving minority status, a move designed to streamline the process for businesses seeking to benefit from these set-aside programs. Furthermore, enhanced training for state procurement officers is outlined to ensure they are well-equipped to recognize and assist minority businesses effectively.

Summary

House Bill 05877 seeks to bolster opportunities for minority-owned and women-owned businesses within the state by amending existing statutes regarding procurement practices. Specifically, the bill proposes the establishment of separate set-aside programs aimed at ensuring that at least five percent of all state contracts are awarded to businesses owned by individuals from minority groups based on racial or ethnic origins. This initiative intends to create a more equitable business landscape and enhance the economic viability of these communities.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to significantly impact the economic opportunities available to minority and women-owned enterprises, it may also face scrutiny regarding the implementation of its provisions. Critics may raise concerns about the feasibility of enforcing the set-aside requirements and ensuring compliance among state agencies. Additionally, the effectiveness of the Supplier Diversity Council established by this bill—a body composed of agency heads and business representatives—will likely be a key point of contention, particularly regarding its ability to influence state procurement policies and foster genuine diversity in supplier selection.