Wisconsin Senate Bill SB137

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/23/23
• Refer: 3/23/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Preferences for woman-owned businesses in state procurement for architectural and engineering services. (FE)

Impact

The bill's passing is expected to foster economic growth and enhance diversity within state procurement processes by reducing barriers for woman-owned businesses. Additionally, it aims to provide a structured approach for measuring the success of these initiatives. The DOA is required to report annually to the governor and the legislature on the amounts awarded to woman-owned enterprises, thus increasing transparency and accountability in reaching these goals. This legislative approach also emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in state-funded projects and contracts.

Summary

Senate Bill 137 introduces a framework aimed at promoting participation of woman-owned businesses in state procurement processes, specifically for architectural and engineering services. The legislation mandates that the Department of Administration (DOA) works towards ensuring that at least 5 percent of the total expenditures for these services are directed to certified woman-owned businesses. This requirement aligns with existing laws that encourage similar allocations to minority-owned businesses, helping to level the playing field for underrepresented groups in state contracting opportunities.

Contention

Despite its positive implications, the bill may face contention among various stakeholders. Critics may argue that setting such expenditure targets could complicate procurement processes and detract from merit-based considerations when selecting vendors for state contracts. Additionally, some fears revolve around potential unintended consequences, where the implementation of such preferences could lead to skepticism regarding the qualifications of awarded businesses, labeling them as benefiting from quotas rather than competency. Notably, inclusive procurement policies often invite debate on the balance between equity and efficiency in government contracting.