Bill > HB714

This bill creates new provisions to enhance contract opportunities for veterans in Missouri by establishing two distinct veteran preference programs. First, it defines an "honorably discharged veteran-owned enterprise" as a business where at least 51% is owned by honorably discharged veterans, with those veterans controlling management and daily operations. The bill mandates that state and local government agencies give a three-point bonus preference to these Missouri-based veteran-owned businesses when awarding contracts. Similarly, the bill also addresses "service-disabled veteran businesses" by creating a parallel preference program for businesses owned and operated by service-disabled veterans, also providing a three-point bonus in contract competitions. The Commissioner of Administration is tasked with setting a goal of awarding 3% of contracts to these veteran-owned businesses, though this goal is not mandatory if insufficient qualified veteran businesses submit bids. Importantly, a business cannot receive bonus points under both veteran preference programs simultaneously. The bill also includes provisions for the Commissioner to create administrative rules to implement these new contracting preferences, with specific guidelines about rule-making procedures and effectiveness.

Government Affairs, Military Affairs and Security

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB714&year=2025&code=R