Maryland House Bill HB1184

Maryland 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/8/24
• Refer: 2/8/24

Caption

State Procurement - Preferences - Historically Underutilized Business Zone Businesses

Impact

Should HB 1184 be enacted, it will significantly alter the landscape of state procurement in Maryland. By implementing a structure that emphasizes federal compliance and establishes specific goals for contract award percentages, the bill aims to rectify historical imbalances in state contracting. This could lead to an increase in contracts awarded to small and historically underutilized businesses, thereby fostering diversity in state procurement and potentially stimulating local economies.

Summary

House Bill 1184 aims to modify state procurement procedures to enhance participation from historically underutilized business zone businesses. This legislation mandates that state units align their procurement methods with federal standards while striving to achieve a target of at least 10% of the total procurement contracts being awarded to these businesses. The intent is to create economic opportunities for historically underutilized enterprises by providing them with preferential pricing and contracts, thereby supporting local economic development.

Contention

While the bill's supporters laud the potential for economic growth and equitable opportunities, critics may argue about the feasibility of achieving the required percentage goals and the complexity of compliance with both state and federal procurement standards. Additionally, concerns about equitable access to these contracts among various business sizes and types may arise. The bill contains penalties for misrepresentation related to contract eligibility, which may be viewed as a necessary enforcement mechanism by proponents but could also raise apprehensions among small businesses wary of stringent compliance requirements.