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H 3347

An Act relative to the fair participation of minority and women-owned businesses on public construction projects

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Russell Holmes

Massachusetts bill H 3347 requires public construction projects to ensure meaningful participation and contracting opportunities for minority-owned and women-owned businesses.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · H 3347

Legislative bill overview

H 3347 establishes requirements to ensure minority-owned and women-owned businesses (MWBEs) have meaningful participation opportunities in Massachusetts public construction projects. The bill likely sets participation goals, contracting standards, and oversight mechanisms for state-funded construction work.

Why is this important

Public construction represents billions in spending annually, and historically these contracts have disproportionately benefited majority-owned firms. Increasing MWBE participation can reduce systemic economic barriers, build generational wealth in underrepresented communities, and diversify the construction industry workforce.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost concerns: Contractors and municipalities may argue that MWBE participation requirements increase project costs or create administrative burden, versus proponents stating competitive benefits offset any premium
  • Definition and measurement: Disputes over how to define "minority" and "women-owned," verify ownership/control, and measure meaningful participation (goals vs. mandates, subcontracting vs. prime contracts)
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Disagreement over what penalties apply for non-compliance, how grievances are handled, and whether exemptions should exist for small projects or unavailable qualified bidders

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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