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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PR- 168-06
May 23, 2006

MAYOR BLOOMBERG SIGNS LEGISLATION ESTABLISHING MINORITY AND WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM

Remarks by Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg at a Public Hearing on Local Laws

"The next and last bill before me today is Introductory Number 180-A, sponsored by Council Members  Reyna, Liu, Gonzalez, Monserrate, Dilan, Martinez, Rivera, Baez, Palma, Arroyo, Clarke, Mark-Viverito, Sanders, Stewart, Foster, Comrie, Dickens, Jackson, James and Mendez.  This bill seeks to enhance opportunities for emerging business enterprises in City procurement by amending Local Law 129 of 2005, which established the City's Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprise program.   

"The passage of Local Law 129 was a major step forward in our efforts to ensure that all New Yorkers have equal opportunities to succeed in doing business with the City.  However, there are businesses that are owned and operated by individuals who may not be recognized by a disparity study as suffering from discrimination when competing for City contracts, yet who have nevertheless experienced the burden of institutionalized social and economic disadvantage.

"Intro. 180-A creates a separate and distinct, race and gender-neutral classification known as EBE (Emerging Business Enterprise) for businesses owned by such individuals.  In order to qualify as an EBE, individual business owners must demonstrate through concrete evidence that they have experienced social and economic disadvantage, such as lack of access to credit.  The bill establishes a Citywide goal for EBE participation in City contracts under $1 million, and requires agencies to set goals for subcontracts under $1 million for specific procurements.  The City will be held accountable for progress towards these goals, through regular reporting.

"Eliminating disparities in contracting benefits all New Yorkers by leveling the playing field and increasing competition for City contracts.

"I would like to thank the Department of Small Business ServicesThe Law DepartmentThe Mayor's Office of Contract Services  and the Council for their tireless efforts on this important issue."







MEDIA CONTACT:


Stu Loeser / Jordan Barowitz   (212) 788-2958




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