Veterans' Affairs Committee
JOINT FAVORABLE REPORT
Bill No.: HB-5736
AN ACT CONCERNING PRICE PREFERENCES FOR VETERAN-OWNED
Title: BUSINESSES IN STATE CONTRACTING.
Vote Date: 3/18/2021
Vote Action: Joint Favorable
PH Date: 2/11/2021
File No.: 233
Disclaimer: The following JOINT FAVORABLE Report is prepared for the benefit of the
members of the General Assembly, solely for purposes of information, summarization and
explanation and does not represent the intent of the General Assembly or either chamber
thereof for any purpose.
SPONSORS OF BILL:
Veterans' Affairs Committee
Rep. Stephen G. Harding, 107th Dist.
Rep. Michael DiGiovancarlo, 74th Dist.
Rep. Ronald A. Napoli, 73rd Dist.
Rep. Dorinda Borer, 115th Dist.
REASONS FOR BILL:
Currently, all open market orders and contracts are awarded to the lowest responsible
qualified bidder. This legislation would add "veteran-owned businesses" to the list of entities
who can receive a price preference of up to ten per cent. By doing so, veterans are provided
an additional opportunity to gain financial stability and reintegrate successfully into civilian
life.
RESPONSE FROM ADMINISTRATION/AGENCY:
None Expressed.
NATURE AND SOURCES OF SUPPORT:
Tom Flower, Chairman, Connecticut American Legion Legislative Affairs. : Mr. Flower
submitted written testimony in support of HB-5736.
NATURE AND SOURCES OF OPPOSITION:
Kevin Dillon, Executive Director, Connecticut Airport Authority. : Mr. Dillion submitted written
testimony concerning federal restrictions imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration as it
relates to this bill. He stated that a federal requirement restricts the establishing of price
preference or set asides for any contractors as the federal government's main concern is cost
effectiveness. This legislation could put them into conflict with their federal requirements. Mr.
Dillion suggested Substitute Language in order to exempt the Connecticut Airport Authority
and other entities that are not able to offer price preference.
Reported by: Edward Jacome, Assistant Clerk Date: 03/26/21
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