Bill > SF2038

This bill expands and modifies small business programs and contracting procedures for the Metropolitan Council, which serves the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area. The bill allows the council to directly negotiate contracts for construction or maintenance work up to a specified dollar threshold without requiring competitive bidding, by obtaining at least two quotations. It also modifies small business procurement preferences, allowing the council to award contract preferences to small targeted group businesses and veteran-owned small businesses up to percentages specified in state law. The bill enables the council to designate certain contracts for award exclusively to small targeted group or veteran-owned businesses if at least three such businesses are likely to respond to a solicitation. Additionally, the bill updates provisions related to subcontracting goals, allowing the council to set requirements for prime contractors to subcontract with small targeted group and veteran-owned businesses, and establishes payment timelines and penalties for contractors. The bill also allows the council to grant money to a guaranty fund that provides working capital loans to socially and economically disadvantaged businesses, with the goal of helping these businesses participate in government contracts. The changes will apply specifically to the seven counties of the metropolitan area and take effect immediately after enactment.

Government Affairs, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF2038&ssn=0&y=2025