New Jersey Senate Bill SCR18

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22
• Report Pass: 3/3/22
• Engrossed: 3/24/22
• Refer: 3/24/22
• Report Pass: 1/12/23
• Passed: 1/26/23

Caption

Urges Governor, BPU, and certain Commissioners to increase female, minority, and veteran-owned small business participation in contracts awarded with certain federal funds.

Impact

The IIJA represents a substantial investment in New Jersey, with an estimated total allocation of at least $13.5 billion to address transportation needs and infrastructure projects, including key initiatives such as the Gateway Project. The resolution asserts that this funding presents a 'once-in-a-lifetime' opportunity for the state to develop its infrastructure while also maximizing benefits for underrepresented business owners. The resolution's intent is to secure that all businesses, especially those owned by women and minorities, receive a fair chance to compete for and win contracts, thus stimulating local economies and promoting diversity in business ownership.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 18 (SCR18) urges the Governor of New Jersey, the Board of Public Utilities, and other relevant commissioners to enhance the participation of female, minority, and veteran-owned small businesses in contracts awarded through federal funds derived from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). This resolution highlights the importance of these businesses in ensuring equitable access to opportunities provided by significant federal investments aimed at improving the critical infrastructure within the state. It calls for increased outreach, transparency, and effective monitoring of procurement practices to support these businesses adequately.

Contention

However, there is a recognized gap in participation rates among disadvantage business enterprises in state contracts, which the resolution seeks to remedy. For instance, the Department of Transportation has only a 13.23% participation rate, and New Jersey Transit shows a slightly higher rate of 21.87% in awarding federally-funded contracts to these minority groups. Critics may raise concerns about how effectively the state can implement the enhancements suggested by the resolution, particularly ensuring equitable participation and addressing the systemic barriers that have hindered minority and women-owned businesses historically. Ultimately, the resolution encourages a strategic approach necessary to meet the diversity of New Jersey's population while leveraging federal funds for inclusive economic development.