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B 26-0206

Certified Business Enterprise Program Compliance and Enforcement Support Emergency Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Phil Mendelson

D.C. emergency law enhances Certified Business Enterprise Program enforcement with increased compliance monitoring funding through August 2025.

Act A26-0076 Published in DC Register Vol 72 and Page 006454, Expires on Aug 26, 2025
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Bill Summary · B 26-0206

Legislative bill overview

This emergency amendment act provides funding and enforcement mechanisms to strengthen compliance monitoring of the District of Columbia's Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) Program, which aims to ensure government contracting opportunities for disadvantaged and minority-owned businesses. The legislation was enacted as emergency law in May 2025 with an expiration date of August 26, 2025, requiring reauthorization if continued beyond that date.

Why is this important

The CBE Program is a key tool for economic equity and wealth-building in underrepresented communities through preferential contracting access. Enhanced compliance and enforcement help prevent fraud, ensure resources reach intended beneficiaries, and maintain public trust in the contracting process—all critical to the program's legitimacy and effectiveness.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and resource allocation: Emergency funding measures may redirect resources from other DC services or require budget reductions elsewhere
  • Compliance burden on small businesses: Stricter enforcement and monitoring requirements could increase administrative costs and paperwork for legitimate CBEs
  • Sunset provision uncertainty: The August 2025 expiration creates uncertainty for compliance planning; businesses and agencies must prepare for potential program disruption if reauthorization fails

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

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