Bill > SB813

This bill establishes the HUB Zone Business Procurement Program to increase opportunities for historically underutilized business zone (HUB zone) businesses in Pennsylvania state government contracting. The bill expands the definition of "diverse and disadvantaged businesses" to include HUB zone businesses, which are defined as for-profit businesses headquartered and located within a HUB zone in Pennsylvania that meet specific federal certification criteria. The program requires executive and independent agencies to set contract-specific goals for HUB zone business participation, targeting 20% participation for contracts between $100,000 and $750,000, and 25% participation for contracts over $750,000. The Department of General Services will administer the program, including developing policies, providing support and training to HUB zone businesses, soliciting these businesses for appropriate contracts, establishing participation goals, reviewing utilization schedules, monitoring contract compliance, and evaluating the program's effectiveness. Bidders can request waivers from these participation goals by demonstrating good faith efforts to include HUB zone businesses, and the department will conduct monthly compliance reviews and require payment verification reports to ensure contractors meet their committed goals.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=813