Bill > SB829

This bill extends various provisions related to the Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Program in Maryland, primarily by pushing back termination and reporting deadlines from 2024 or 2025 to 2026. The bill incorporates several key provisions, including applying MBE program requirements to public-private partnerships where practicable, mandating that the Board of Public Works establish minority business enterprise participation goals for such partnerships, and requiring multiple studies and reports on the program's effectiveness. Specifically, the bill requires the certification agency to conduct an analysis of MBE program requirements, evaluate compliance with federal and constitutional standards, and submit reports to the Legislative Policy Committee. The bill also directs the Governor's Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs to report on the establishment of minority business enterprise subgoals and develop race- and gender-neutral approaches to supporting minority and women-owned businesses. Additionally, the bill extends the termination dates for MBE program provisions in various contexts, including offshore wind projects, video lottery terminals, and sports wagering licenses, effectively giving the program more time to be reviewed and potentially modified before potential sunsetting.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0829?ys=2025RS