Bill > S04155

This bill requires contracting agencies to actively engage with minority and women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs) that are listed on a utilization plan, which is a document outlining how a contractor intends to use MWBEs in a project. Specifically, contracting agencies must contact these listed MWBEs both when the utilization plan is submitted and after a contract is awarded. The bill mandates that the prime contractor must use the MWBEs identified on the utilization plan unless those businesses are unable to perform the work or are no longer certified by the state. It also introduces new provisions regarding the timely execution of subcontractor agreements, prompt payment to subcontractors, and allows for self-certification for contractors that are themselves certified MWBEs to meet contract goals. These requirements apply to all public contracts where a request for proposals is issued.