BUSINESS ENTERPRISE-VETERANS
The bill alters existing state laws by mandating that the provisions for procurement preferences, which were previously targeted to minorities, women, and persons with disabilities, now also encompass veterans. Nonetheless, it removes a prior provision that offered specific procurement preferences for veteran-owned businesses, which has raised some concerns regarding the adequacy of support for these businesses. This dual approach seeks to balance the expansion of diversity in business ownership while maintaining equitable access to state contracts.
SB0238, introduced by Senator Craig Wilcox, amends the Business Enterprise for Minorities, Women, and Persons with Disabilities Act, expanding its provisions to include veterans and veteran-owned businesses. The bill renames the Act to the Business Enterprise for Minorities, Women, Veterans, and Persons with Disabilities Act. This legislative change signifies a broader recognition of the contributions and needs of veteran-owned businesses within the framework of state procurement and business support initiatives.
Notable points of contention surrounding SB0238 include the removal of veteran-specific procurement preferences that some advocates argue might diminish support for veteran-owned businesses. Critics worry that without these preferences, veterans may face challenges in competing for government contracts against a broader field of businesses. Proponents, however, argue that the expanded definitions and inclusivity encouraged by the bill will better serve the state's diverse business landscape, fostering growth across multiple business types and ensuring that all groups, including veterans, benefit from state procurement opportunities.