Georgia Senate Bill SB346

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/24
• Refer: 1/11/24
• Report Pass: 2/22/24

Caption

Department of Administrative Services; companies owned or operated by Iran to bid on or submit a proposal for a state contract; prohibit

Impact

The implications of SB346 are significant in the context of state procurement regulations and international relations. By specifically targeting companies associated with the Iranian government, the bill places Georgia in alignment with broader national security concerns related to foreign influence and economic practices. The enforcement of this regulation could potentially lead to a more restrictive environment for contracts in certain industries, particularly those that might have connections to such entities.

Summary

Senate Bill 346 aims to amend the Official Code of Georgia by prohibiting companies owned or operated by the Iranian government from bidding on or submitting proposals for contracts with state agencies. The bill establishes a clear definition of what constitutes a scrutinized company and outlines the responsibilities of said companies when submitting bids for state contracts. It introduces mechanisms for certification to ensure compliance and sets forth penalties for those found to have submitted false certifications regarding their ownership status.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding SB346 may revolve around issues of free trade and economic fairness. Critics might argue that penalizing companies based solely on their ownership affiliations could lead to unintended consequences or discrimination against businesses that may not directly support governmental policies. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the administrative burden of requiring certification for contractors, as well as the potential for litigation regarding the classification of companies as scrutinized entities.