Relates to minority and women-owned business enterprise certification

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Toby Stavisky

Relates to minority and women-owned business (MWBE) certification; could modify eligibility, renewal, and oversight in state procurement, shaping who can bid and win contracts.

REFERRED TO PROCUREMENT AND CONTRACTS

Bill Summary: S 3965 – Relates to minority and women-owned business enterprise certification

Overview

Bill S 3965 is a measure formally titled to address minority and women-owned business enterprise (MWBE) certification. The available information indicates the bill would modify or establish aspects of the MWBE certification framework within the state’s procurement system. The exact substantive provisions are not provided in the current materials.

Status and process

Introduced: January 31, 2025

Current status: REFERRED TO PROCUREMENT AND CONTRACTS

Legislative actions (as published): 2025-01-31 — REFERRED TO PROCUREMENT AND CONTRACTS (listed twice)

Committee jurisdiction suggests a focus on procurement rules, contracting practices, and MWBE program administration

Sponsor: Toby Ann Stavisky (primary)

Related bills

S 9217 (prior-session) – related Senate measure

A 195 (companion) – corresponding Assembly measure

What is known from the bill’s metadata

Subject: MWBE certification

Purpose: Based on the title, the bill would relate to the certification process for minority and women-owned businesses; the precise changes to eligibility criteria, application procedures, verification, renewal, enforcement, or program administration are not included in the provided information.

Potential impacts (high-level)

Procurement: Could alter certification requirements or recognition for MWBEs in state procurement, affecting bid opportunities and contract eligibility.

Eligibility and process: May modify how businesses qualify for MWBE status, how certifications are issued, renewed, or retired, and how certifications are monitored.

Program administration: Could involve changes to oversight, reporting, or coordination between agencies responsible for MWBE programs.

Equity and opportunities: Depending on the exact provisions, the bill could broaden or refine access to contracting opportunities for MWBEs and potentially streamline compliance for participants.

Next steps for interested readers

Review the bill text once released to understand specific eligibility criteria, milestones, timelines, and any fiscal impacts.

Compare S 3965 to its related measures (S 9217 and A 195) to gauge differences in approach or scope.

Monitor committee hearings in the Procurement and Contracts committee for deliberations, amendments, and potential amendments to the MWBE certification framework.