The bill amends various sections of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to enhance support for veteran-owned small businesses and small diverse businesses in state procurement processes. It introduces new terms such as "aspirational target," "contract-specific goal," and "disparity study," establishing a statewide annual participation goal of at least 5% for veteran business enterprises. The Secretary of General Services is empowered to adjust this aspirational target every five years based on findings from a disparity study. The Department of General Services is tasked with verifying business certifications, setting contract-specific goals, and monitoring compliance, while also allowing bidders to request waivers of these goals.

Additionally, the bill establishes a Small Diverse Business Program, which includes the creation of an "agency liaison" role to support small diverse businesses in engaging with Commonwealth procurement. It mandates the department to conduct disparity studies every five years to inform the setting of aspirational targets and outlines the department's responsibilities in formulating policies, monitoring compliance, and providing resources to these businesses. The program is set to expire on December 31, 2030, unless significant disparities in utilization are identified. The bill also replaces the term "participation goal" with "Statewide participation goal and aspirational target," further clarifying the objectives of the legislation.

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