CA AB1568

Requires state agencies to solicit at least 3 price quotations from and obtain at least 2 price quotations from certified small businesses or disabled veteran business enterprises (DVBEs) for contracts valued between $5,000 and $250,000.

Encourages agencies to solicit quotations from businesses that have not previously contracted with the agency within the prior 12 months to expand opportunities for new small business and DVBE participation.

Responds to a California State Auditor report finding that 83 percent of DVBE contract awards went to only 30 firms (2 percent of all DVBEs) and that 81 percent of DVBEs received no state contracts.

Applies to state agencies awarding contracts for goods, services, or information technology within the specified dollar range, notwithstanding existing advertising and bidding requirements.

Removes the previous requirement for agencies to contact additional businesses only if they fail to obtain more than 2 initial quotations.