Bill > A08294

This bill authorizes the director of the division of minority and women's business development and the mayor of New York City to enter into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that establishes reciprocal certification for minority and women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs). Currently, businesses seeking certification must go through separate application processes for state and municipal certification. The bill requires the state office to accept municipal corporation certification verifications in lieu of completing the state certification process separately, provided that the municipal corporation meets specific criteria. Businesses must still meet key requirements, such as being at least 51% owned by minorities or women, having owners with a personal net worth under $15 million, being authorized to do business in New York, and having owners who can independently control day-to-day business decisions. The bill aims to streamline the certification process by allowing reciprocity between state and municipal MWBE certification programs, reducing bureaucratic hurdles for small businesses owned by minorities and women. The changes will take effect 270 days after the bill becomes law, giving state and municipal entities time to develop and implement the new reciprocal certification procedures.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8294