AR HB1536

Amends Arkansas Code Title 15, Chapter 4, Subchapter 3 to rename the "Minority Business Economic Development Act" to the "Minority and Women-owned Business Economic Development Act"

Expands the 10% state procurement goal to apply to a combination of minority business enterprises and women-owned business enterprises (defined as at least 51% owned by one or more women)

Establishes that the Division of Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprise must provide technical, managerial, and counseling services to both minority and women-owned business enterprises

Requires each state agency to designate a minority and women-owned business officer and submit annual purchasing plans outlining goals for contracting with minority and women-owned businesses

Creates a certification process for women-owned business enterprises and requires state agencies to submit quarterly reports on procurement spending with these businesses