Upcoming Hearing Dates
Our office is currently working on legislation that will improve conditions for minority businesses across the state of Maryland. We are looking for MBE’s to testify in favor of the bills. Your support is critical to the passage of the legislation.
Public-Private Partnership Agreements – MBE Program
February 12 at 2 pm in the Senate (SB 442)
February 18th at 1 pm in the House (HB 313)
Crossfile Sponsor: Senator Antonio Hayes
The bill proposes to restore the applicability of Maryland’s Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) program to public-private partnerships (P3s). Doing so would:
- Expand contracting opportunities for certified Minority Business Enterprises
- Better attract MBE vendors to procurement opportunities by requiring State agencies to provide appropriate data and technical support, which can be implemented using existing resources.
For more info on how to testify (written statement or in-person) in favor of the proposed legislation, please email darryl.barnes@house.state.md.us or call 240-731-5771 for more information.
Prompt Payment Practices – Net 15
February 27th at 1 pm in the Senate (SB 933)
March 3rd at 1 pm in the House (HB 747)
Crossfile Sponsor: Senator Antonio Hayes
The bill will enable state business contractors to receive payment within 15 days of invoice rather than the current policy of 30 days. The bill would also:
- Require each county and municipality to adopt a certain policy;
- Reduce the number of days from 45 to 15 following receipt of an invoice after which the State owes interest on unpaid amounts and interest begins to accrue on unpaid amount
For more info on how to testify (written statement or in-person) in favor of the proposed legislation, please email darryl.barnes@house.state.md.us or call 240-731-5771 for more information.