Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

Mississippi Senate Bill SB2355

Introduced
1/16/23  
Refer
1/16/23  

Caption

Socially and economically disadvantaged small business; establish program to encourage participation in state contracts by.

Impact

If passed, SB2355 would require each state agency to appoint an ODC Compliance Officer charged with ensuring compliance with the ODC Program, thereby institutionalizing support for disadvantaged businesses at the state level. The measure encourages inclusion by mandating that state agencies adopt specific procurement goals tailored to amplify participation from ODC-certified businesses in various contracting categories such as construction, professional services, and information technology. The Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) would oversee this initiative and develop procedures for certifying participating enterprises.

Summary

Senate Bill 2355 proposes the establishment of the Opportunities for Diversity in Contracting Program (ODC) within the Mississippi Development Authority. The primary aim of this program is to enhance the participation of socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses in state contracting opportunities. This bill intends to facilitate better access to government contracts for these businesses, promoting a more equitable bidding environment.

Contention

The bill's discussions may highlight contention around how effectively it addresses the challenges faced by these businesses compared to existing contracting processes. Critics may argue whether the measures proposed are sufficient to change the landscape or merely symbolic, while supporters would likely emphasize the historical necessity for policies promoting diversity in state contracting. Additional scrutiny might focus on the practicality of implementing compliance measures within state agencies.

Notable_points

Furthermore, the bill outlines processes for issuing waivers to accommodate circumstances where compliance to set procurement goals may not be feasible. This flexibility is designed to meet the nuanced demands of different state agencies, acknowledging the varying readiness levels of businesses to engage in government contracts, thus balancing mandatory goals with achievable outcomes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS SB2401

Socially and economically disadvantaged small business; establish program to encourage participation in state contracts by.

MS SB2799

Socially and economically disadvantaged small business; establish program to encourage participation in state contracts by.

MS SB2591

Socially and economically disadvantaged small business; establish program to encourage participation in state contracts by.

MS HB276

Socially and economically disadvantaged small business concerns; establish program to encourage participation in state contracts.

MS A4486

Establishes State contract goal for socially and economically disadvantaged businesses.

MS A2146

Creates State business assistance program to establish contracting agency procurement goals for socially and economically disadvantaged business enterprises.

MS S855

Creates State business assistance program to establish contracting agency procurement goals for socially and economically disadvantaged business enterprises.

MS A862

Creates State business assistance program to establish contracting agency procurement goals for socially and economically disadvantaged business enterprises.

MS AB915

Small and disadvantaged business enterprises.

MS H315

Empowering disadvantaged state contractors” provides up-front down payments and bridge loans to socially or economically disadvantaged microbusinesses and small businesses that secure state contracts through CDFIs and non-traditional lenders

Similar Bills

MS SB2591

Socially and economically disadvantaged small business; establish program to encourage participation in state contracts by.

MS SB2799

Socially and economically disadvantaged small business; establish program to encourage participation in state contracts by.

MS SB2401

Socially and economically disadvantaged small business; establish program to encourage participation in state contracts by.

MS HB276

Socially and economically disadvantaged small business concerns; establish program to encourage participation in state contracts.

MS HB1616

Public purchasing law; revise certain provisions related to schools and school districts.

MS HB972

Public purchasing; increase threshold for purchases without competitive bidding.

MS HB875

Public purchases; revise bidding requirements for certain projects and other related to Mississippi Landmarks.

MS SB2566

Public bid requirements for local governing authorities and state agencies; increase minimum expenditure amounts.