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HD 1687

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

Summary of HD 1687: An Act Relative to Fair Participation of Minority and Women-Owned Businesses OverviewHD 1687 is a proposed bill that seeks to increase the participation of mino

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Bill Summary · HD 1687

Summary of HD 1687: An Act Relative to Fair Participation of Minority and Women-Owned Businesses

Overview

HD 1687 is a proposed bill that seeks to increase the participation of minority-owned and women-owned businesses (M/WBEs) in public construction projects within the state. The bill aims to address historical disparities and ensure greater equity in the awarding of government contracts.

Key Provisions

  • Requires state agencies and authorities to set participation goals for M/WBEs on all public construction projects over $5 million
  • Establishes a statewide certification program for M/WBE contractors and subcontractors
  • Mandates that 25% of the total value of all public construction contracts be awarded to certified M/WBE firms
  • Imposes penalties for prime contractors who fail to meet the M/WBE participation requirements
  • Creates a new state office to oversee and enforce compliance with the M/WBE participation goals

Impact and Affected Parties

  • This bill would directly impact minority and women business owners seeking to participate in public construction projects
  • It would also affect state and local government agencies that award and oversee public construction contracts
  • Prime construction contractors would need to adjust their subcontracting practices to meet the new M/WBE participation requirements
  • Taxpayers may see changes in the costs and timeframes for public construction projects as a result of the new M/WBE rules

Timeline

  • The bill was introduced in the state legislature on November 29, 2025
  • If enacted, the new M/WBE certification program and participation goals would take effect on July 1, 2026
  • Agencies and authorities would be required to submit their first M/WBE utilization reports by December 31, 2026

Overall, HD 1687 represents a significant effort to address historical inequities in the awarding of public construction contracts and increase economic opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses in the state.

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

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