New York Assembly Bill A08881

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/9/25
• Refer: 6/9/25

Caption

Expands the small business mentoring program to include contracts for construction or related services.

Summary

Bill A08881 seeks to expand the small business mentoring program under the New York public authorities law. The bill allows small businesses that perform construction or related services to receive mentoring services for up to ten years. It establishes criteria for small businesses to qualify for the program, focusing on those with annual revenues not exceeding ten million dollars. The intention is to enhance opportunities for small businesses to compete for public work contracts by designating certain contracts as small business mentoring program contracts. One of the significant features of the bill is the provision for competitive selection of firms that will offer mentoring services to eligible small businesses. These mentors are expected to aid in bid preparation and project management for contracts awarded under the program. Furthermore, the bill mandates that the authority shall issue annual reports detailing procurement activities and the effectiveness of the mentoring program, which are intended to increase transparency and accountability in the program’s execution. The bill’s contentions revolve around concerns regarding the adequacy of the proposed funding and the selection process for mentors. Some stakeholders argue that the success of the mentoring program is contingent upon whether small businesses can receive adequate support to compete successfully against larger firms. There have been debates surrounding the balance between aiding small businesses and ensuring that public contracts are awarded efficiently and fairly. Moreover, the potential impact on state laws is significant as this bill may alter existing statutes concerning public works contracts. It proposes to exempt certain procedures to streamline the process, which could raise concerns among advocates for regulatory best practices. Some fear that relaxing regulations may lead to less scrutiny in contract awards, thereby undermining fair competition. Overall, Bill A08881 represents an assertive push to bolster small businesses but also raises important questions about the implications of such expansive measures.