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Bill

HB 991

State Procurement - Minority Business Enterprise Program - Extension and Reports

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tiffany Alston and 17 co-sponsors

Maryland extends its Minority Business Enterprise procurement program and enhances reporting requirements to track state contract participation by minority-owned businesses.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 620
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Bill Summary · HB 991

Legislative bill overview

HB 991 extends Maryland's Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Program, which requires state procurement contracts to include participation goals for minority-owned businesses. The bill likely includes reporting requirements to track MBE participation rates and contract awards across state agencies.

Why is this important

The MBE program is a key tool for addressing historical disparities in government contracting and building wealth in minority communities. Extension and enhanced reporting ensure accountability and help policymakers assess whether participation goals are being met and where barriers exist.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition disputes: Disagreement over which businesses qualify as "minority-owned" and whether criteria adequately reflect current demographics
  • Compliance burden: State agencies and contractors may argue reporting requirements create administrative costs without guaranteeing contract success for MBEs
  • Effectiveness questions: Debate over whether contract set-asides and goals actually improve long-term MBE business sustainability or merely create short-term opportunities

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

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