This bill amends Title 62 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to enhance the definitions and provisions related to diverse and disadvantaged businesses, specifically incorporating HUB zone businesses into the existing framework. The definition of "diverse and disadvantaged businesses" is expanded to include HUB zone businesses alongside woman-owned, minority-owned, and veteran-owned businesses. New terms such as "contract-specific goal," "good faith efforts," "HUB zone," and "HUB zone business" are introduced to clarify the roles and expectations within the procurement process. Additionally, the bill establishes the HUB Zone Business Procurement Program, which aims to ensure that state agencies engage HUB zone businesses in their contracting processes.

The HUB Zone Business Procurement Program mandates that executive and independent agencies set specific participation goals for HUB zone businesses based on the value of contracts. For contracts between $100,000 and $750,000, a minimum of 20% participation is required, while contracts exceeding $750,000 must have at least 25% participation. The bill also outlines procedures for requesting waivers of these goals and emphasizes the importance of good faith efforts by bidders to include HUB zone businesses. Compliance reviews and monitoring of contracts will be conducted by the department to ensure adherence to these new requirements, with the act set to take effect in 60 days.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 860 (May 30, 2025): 62-2201