Texas House Bill HB278

Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to the preference given by state agencies for certain goods and services produced or offered by small businesses.

Impact

The bill modifies Chapter 2155 of the Texas Government Code by adding a new section specifically addressing procurement preferences for small businesses. By mandating that agencies prioritize small businesses in their purchasing processes, the legislation is expected to stimulate economic growth within local communities. This could potentially increase job creation and foster innovation as small businesses can diversify their revenue streams through government contracts, which may have previously been more accessible to larger firms.

Summary

House Bill 278 aims to enhance the economic viability of small businesses in Texas by instituting a preference for goods and services produced or offered by these entities in state agency contracts. The bill stipulates that for any contract with a value below $500,000, state agencies must prioritize small businesses unless specified exceptions apply. This legislative move seeks to bolster local economies and promote entrepreneurial opportunities within the state by ensuring that small businesses have a fair chance to compete for government contracts.

Contention

Despite the positive implications of HB 278 for small businesses, there may be contention regarding the exclusions specifically dictated in the bill. Notably, contracts involving telecommunications and advanced communication services are exempt from this preference, which could spark debates regarding whether such exclusions are justified or limit opportunities for certain small businesses operating in those sectors. Critics might argue that systematic preferences in procurement processes must be consistent across different sectors to avoid favoritism and ensure equitable opportunities for all ranges of small enterprises.