HB 51 Summary

• Establishes preference for "geographically disadvantaged business enterprises" (GDBEs) in state, county, and municipal contract awards funded with non-federal money, requiring preference if their bid is within 3% of the lowest responsible bid.

• Defines GDBEs as entities that are HUBZone Small Business Concerns certified by the Small Business Administration, have a principal place of business in a qualified opportunity zone in Alabama, or have more than half their employees residing or working in a qualified opportunity zone.

• Requires the Department of Finance to adopt procurement policies establishing a goal that 3% or more of expenditures by the 2022-2023 fiscal year be awarded to GDBEs, and to include provisions allowing subcontracts and joint ventures with GDBEs.

• Requires entities seeking GDBE certification to file a sworn affidavit with the Department of Finance and must comply with the same requirements as other bidders including insurance requirements.

• Directs the Department of Finance Director to adopt implementing rules, monitor compliance, and issue annual reports to the Governor detailing contracts awarded to GDBEs by department or agency, with reports made available to the public online; act becomes effective three months after passage.