The Certified Business Enterprise Program Compliance and Enforcement Support Temporary Amendment Act of 2026 amends the Small and Certified Business Enterprise Development and Assistance Act of 2005 to enhance the certification process for local business enterprises. Key changes include the requirement that businesses applying for certification must be "independently owned and operated," ensuring they manage their operations without external control. The bill also introduces new definitions for "formal" and "informal complaints," clarifying the processes for filing grievances against certified businesses. Additionally, it revises the performance requirements for certified joint ventures, stipulating that each participating enterprise must perform a percentage of work that corresponds to its ownership interest.
Furthermore, the bill establishes uniform procedures for handling enforcement actions, including the investigation of complaints and the issuance of penalties. It mandates that the Department maintain a record of all formal complaints and outlines the process for hearings related to civil penalties or certification changes. The act is set to take effect on March 29, 2026, and will expire 225 days after its enactment, pending approval by the Mayor and a congressional review period.