New Jersey Senate Bill S3855

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/15/23
• Refer: 5/15/23

Caption

Requires State Chief Diversity Officer to conduct study of utilization of disabled veteran-owned businesses in State procurement process.

Impact

The outcome of this study will be significant for future state procurement policies, as the Chief Diversity Officer is required to submit a detailed report of findings and recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature within 12 months of the bill's enactment. This report is expected to inform legislative measures that could enhance opportunities for disabled veteran-owned businesses in public contracts, potentially leading to more equitable access to state procurement processes. The findings from this study may also create a foundation for implementing goal-based procurement programs specifically aimed at increasing the involvement of these businesses.

Summary

Senate Bill S3855 mandates the State Chief Diversity Officer to conduct a comprehensive study of the utilization of disabled veteran-owned businesses within the state procurement process. The primary objective of this bill is to analyze whether there exist disparities between the availability of disabled veteran-owned businesses and their actual utilization by state agencies for procurement of goods and services. This study aims to ascertain the level of participation of disabled veterans in government contracting, which may ultimately lead to initiatives aimed at improving their engagement in the state's economic activities.

Contention

While the bill is primarily focused on the study and subsequent reporting of its findings, it could stir discussions regarding the effectiveness of current procurement policies and practices in the context of diversity and inclusion. Stakeholders may debate the methodologies used to assess utilization and discrepancies, as well as the implementation of any subsequent measures that arise from the bill's recommendations. Extra scrutiny may be placed on how well the state has historically included disabled veteran-owned businesses in procurement and what specific benchmarks should be established to ensure progress in this area.