To procure public products or services from Massachusetts or the United States
Impact
The proposed legislation is expected to create a stronger economic foundation for local businesses by ensuring that state procurement contracts favor these entities. The bill sets an ambitious target, mandating that at least 15% of statewide procurement contracts are awarded to small, independently-owned businesses located within the commonwealth. This move is seen as a significant step towards enhancing local economic resilience and reinforcing the viability of small enterprises in Massachusetts.
Summary
House Bill 3367, introduced by Patrick Joseph Kearney, aims to prioritize procurement of public products and services from businesses based in Massachusetts or the United States. The bill proposes amending Chapter 7 of the General Laws by establishing that state agencies or authorities must first seek products or services from local businesses if they are available, provided the cost does not exceed 10% of similar offerings from outside Massachusetts. If local options are not viable, the bill encourages sourcing from U.S. businesses under the same cost conditions before allowing foreign purchases.
Contention
While the intention behind H3367 is to bolster local economies, concerns may arise regarding its implementation and potential implications for cost efficiency and competition. Proponents argue that such regulations not only support local job creation but also foster community investment. Conversely, critics might voice concerns regarding the restrictions on the procurement process, potentially limiting options for state agencies and increasing costs if local offers do not meet quality or service standards compared to those available from out-of-state or international suppliers.