Veterans’ Caregiver Appeals Modernization Act of 2025

119th Congress Introduced by Jim Banks and 1 co-sponsor

Bill S 2055 allows New York's Empire State Development Corporation to hire a consultant to reduce contractor violations, boosting opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses.

Introduced in Senate

Bill Information

Bill Number: S 2055

Title: Authorizing the Empire State Development Corporation to retain an independent MWBE consultant firm for the purpose of helping reduce contractor violations of the provisions of Article 15-A of the Executive Law

Status: Referred to Procurement and Contracts

Introduced: January 15, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 2055 aims to enhance compliance with Article 15-A of the New York Executive Law, which focuses on promoting the participation of Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs) in state contracting. The bill seeks to authorize the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) to engage an independent consultant firm specializing in MWBE issues. The primary intent is to reduce contractor violations related to MWBE participation requirements.

Key Provisions

Consultant Engagement: The bill empowers the ESDC to retain an independent MWBE consultant firm. This firm will provide expertise and guidance on best practices for compliance with MWBE regulations.

Focus on Violations: The consultant's role will specifically target the reduction of contractor violations of Article 15-A, which mandates certain levels of participation by MWBEs in state contracts.

Support for MWBEs: By addressing contractor violations, the bill indirectly supports the growth and sustainability of MWBEs, ensuring they have fair opportunities in state contracting processes.

Affected Parties

Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC): The agency responsible for implementing the provisions of the bill and overseeing the engagement of the consultant.

Contractors: Entities that engage in state contracts will be directly affected, as they will need to comply with the enhanced oversight and guidance provided by the consultant.

Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs): These businesses stand to benefit from improved compliance and increased opportunities in state contracting.

Procedural Aspects

Legislative Status: As of January 15, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Procurement and Contracts committee for further consideration.

Related Legislation: The bill is related to several prior-session bills (A 9906, A 1676, A 6270, S 9537) and has a companion bill (A 7111) that may address similar issues.

Conclusion

Bill S 2055 represents a proactive approach to ensuring compliance with MWBE participation requirements in New York State contracting. By authorizing the ESDC to hire an independent consultant, the bill aims to reduce violations and promote equitable opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses in the state. The successful implementation of this bill could lead to a more inclusive contracting environment and support the economic growth of MWBEs.

Bill