The bill amends various sections of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to enhance support for veteran-owned and small diverse businesses in state procurement processes. It introduces new definitions such as "aspirational target," "contract-specific goal," and "disparity study," while removing the previous definition of "disadvantaged business." A key provision establishes a statewide annual participation goal of at least 5% for veteran business enterprises, with the Secretary of General Services authorized to adjust this target every five years based on disparity study findings. The Department of General Services is tasked with verifying business certifications, setting contract-specific goals, and monitoring compliance, as well as conducting a disparity study every five years to inform these goals.

Additionally, the bill creates a Participation Program for Construction and Design Professional Services to increase the utilization of small diverse businesses. It mandates the formulation of policies and regulations to support this program, including the certification and monitoring of small businesses, and requires annual reporting on contract awards. The bill allows for waivers of contract-specific goals and adjustments in bonding and payment requirements to encourage participation. It also sets an aspirational target for small diverse business participation, which will be reviewed every five years, and establishes that the chapter will expire on December 31, 2030, unless a significant disparity in utilization is identified. Notably, the bill replaces the term "participation goal" with "Statewide participation goal and aspirational target" to align with the new provisions.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 2168 (Jul 23, 2025): 51-9601, 51-9602, 51-9603, 51-9604, 51-9605, 51-9606, 51-9607