Virginia House Bill HJR51

Virginia 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/24
• Refer: 1/10/24

Caption

Employment service organizations; DGS, et al., to study procuring goods and services.

Impact

The resolution directs the Department of General Services to work alongside the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services to conduct a study that assesses the current procurement process and identifies ways to integrate ESOs more effectively. This includes exploring potential set-asides or percentage goals for procurement that could favor employment service organizations. The outcome of this study aims to enhance the participation of ESOs in state contracts, thereby creating more job opportunities for individuals with disabilities and improving their integration into the workforce.

Summary

HJR51 is a resolution aimed at promoting employment opportunities for all residents in the Commonwealth. It recognizes the importance of diversifying the procurement process, suggesting that various employers contribute to the Commonwealth's growth and innovation. Notably, the bill calls attention to over 85 Employment Service Organizations (ESOs) that provide valuable services to individuals with disabilities, emphasizing that these organizations are often underrepresented in state contracts. This resolution encourages a thorough evaluation of the existing procurement processes and the potential for improving access for ESOs to government contracts.

Contention

While the bill promotes an inclusive approach to employment, there may be differing views among stakeholders regarding the strategies recommended for increasing the contract visibility of ESOs. Some may argue that set-asides or percentage goals could lead to concerns about fairness and competitive bidding among all potential contractors. Conversely, advocates for ESOs will likely highlight the necessity for targeted efforts to rectify historical disparities in access to procurement opportunities. The resolution aims to facilitate a more equitable system, but it also opens a discussion about balancing inclusivity with competition in government contracts.