Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB1047

Introduced

1/17/22

Refer

1/17/22

Failed

2/1/22

Caption

State agency and governing authority contracts; require 30% of to be set aside for certain businesses.

Impact

The enactment of HB 1047 will lead to significant changes in how state contracts are structured and who is eligible to compete. The bill outlines a clear framework for procurement and emphasizes set-aside requirements that aim to create more business opportunities for minority and disadvantaged entrepreneurs. By allocating a portion of funding specifically for these groups, the bill seeks to counteract longstanding barriers to entry in state contracting processes and stimulate economic growth in these communities.

Summary

House Bill 1047 aims to amend Section 31-7-13 of the Mississippi Code to require state agencies and governing authorities to dedicate at least 30% of their anticipated annual expenditures for commodities to minority-owned, woman-owned, veteran-owned, and disadvantaged businesses. This bill is part of a broader effort to promote inclusivity and economic empowerment among underrepresented groups in the state.

Contention

While proponents of HB 1047 argue that the bill will enhance fairness and diversity in government procurement, critics may view the specified set-aside percentages as restrictive or burdensome to agencies already operating under tight budgets. Some stakeholders may express concerns about the capacity of these minority-owned businesses to meet state demands or compete effectively against more established firms. As the bill moves through the legislative process, these points of contention will likely be key areas of debate among lawmakers and interest groups.