This bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes to enhance the Metropolitan Council's small business programs and streamline contract negotiation processes. A new subdivision is added to section 473.129, allowing the council to directly negotiate contracts for construction or maintenance work on projects with an estimated total obligation not exceeding a specified amount, bypassing the traditional competitive bidding requirements. Additionally, section 473.142 is revised to adjust the percentage preferences for small targeted group businesses and veteran-owned small businesses, aligning them with existing statutes, and to clarify the conditions under which contracts can be awarded without competitive solicitation.

Further amendments include provisions for the council to establish rules for implementing these changes and requirements for prime contractors to ensure timely payment to subcontractors. The bill also introduces a working capital fund in section 473.1425, allowing the Metropolitan Council to support disadvantaged businesses through a guaranty fund for working capital loans. The act is set to take effect the day after final enactment and will apply to specific counties in Minnesota.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 473.129, 473.142, 473.1425