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Bill

A 7054

Authorizes the empire state development corporation to retain one or more independent MWBE consultant firms to conduct an independent review of procurement procedures utilized by state agencies

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn and 3 co-sponsors

Authorizes ESDC to hire independent MWBE consultants to review state procurement procedures, identify barriers, and boost MWBE participation and procurement transparency.

REFERRED TO GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS
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Bill Summary · A 7054

Summary of Bill A 7054

Overview and Intent

Bill A 7054 authorizes the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) to retain one or more independent MWBE (minority- and women-owned business enterprises) consultant firms to conduct an independent review of procurement procedures used by state agencies. The bill aims to bring an external, objective assessment of how state agencies conduct procurements, with a focus on MWBE participation and potential barriers within existing procedures.

What the bill would do

  • Permit the Empire State Development Corporation to hire independent MWBE consultant firms.
  • Have those consultants perform an independent review of procurement procedures utilized by state agencies.
  • Seek to identify issues, gaps, or opportunities to improve procurement processes from an MWBE perspective.

Key provisions (as stated)

  • Authorization for ESDC to retain one or more independent MWBE consultant firms.
  • The consultants would conduct an independent review of procurement procedures used by state agencies.
  • The scope and methodology of the review, reporting requirements, and any follow-up actions would be established through the bill (specific details not provided in the summary).

Affected entities and stakeholders

  • State agencies engaging in procurement activities.
  • MWBE firms seeking state contracting opportunities.
  • The Empire State Development Corporation, which would coordinate or oversee the review.
  • Legislators and oversight bodies interested in MWBE participation and procurement transparency.

Procedural status and timeline

  • Introduced: March 20, 2025.
  • Status: Referred to Governmental Operations.
  • Legislative Actions: Both entries show the bill being referred to Governmental Operations on March 20, 2025.
  • Related legislation indicates a broader, ongoing interest in MWBE procurement reviews (see companion and prior-session bills listed).

Background and context

  • MWBE programs are designed to promote participation by minority- and women-owned businesses in state contracting.
  • A 7054 aligns with ongoing efforts to review and potentially reform procurement practices to enhance transparency, accountability, and MWBE participation.
  • A companion bill exists in the Senate (S 6314), indicating cross-chamber interest in this policy area.

Potential impact and considerations

  • Positive: Independent external review could reveal procurement barriers, inform reforms, and improve MWBE access to state contracts; enhance procurement transparency and accountability.
  • Financial/Administrative: May require funding for the consulting engagement and resources to implement recommended changes.
  • Processual: Timing and scope of the review, reporting requirements, and follow-through on recommendations will influence effectiveness.

Note: Specifics such as the review’s detailed scope, reporting deadlines, and exact funding provisions are not provided in the available materials and would be defined in the bill’s text or subsequent amendments.

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

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