WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

A 877

Requires entities at every level of government to conduct periodic studies of racial and ethnic disparities in public contracting.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Verlina Reynolds-Jackson

New Jersey mandates all government levels study racial/ethnic disparities in public contracting to identify barriers and improve minority business participation opportunities.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
#civilrights #stcontracts
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 877

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 877 mandates that all government entities—municipal, county, state, and federal levels operating within New Jersey—conduct periodic studies examining racial and ethnic disparities in their public contracting practices. The bill requires these entities to analyze whether minority-owned and women-owned businesses receive equitable shares of government contracts and identify barriers to their participation.

Why is this important

Public contracting represents billions in government spending annually, and disparities in award distribution can perpetuate economic inequality and limit business opportunities for historically underrepresented groups. Such studies provide data-driven evidence to inform policy decisions and accountability measures, potentially unlocking economic advancement for minority entrepreneurs while improving government spending efficiency through broader competition.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance burden and costs: Government entities may argue that conducting periodic studies requires significant administrative resources, staff time, and funding, particularly for smaller municipalities with limited budgets
  • Defining and measuring disparities: Disagreement may arise over methodology—what baseline should be used to determine "disparity" (population demographics, business availability, qualifications), and how to account for legitimate non-discriminatory factors in contracting decisions
  • Enforcement and remedies unclear: The bill doesn't specify consequences for entities failing to conduct studies, what actions must follow if disparities are found, or how findings will be implemented, raising questions about practical effectiveness

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

Sign in to ask a question.