GA HB1467

Grants the Georgia Department of Administrative Services optional powers to encourage and increase participation by minority owned, women owned, veteran owned, and rural business enterprises in state contracts and subcontracts, including developing standardized forms, conducting educational programs, and maintaining a directory of certified businesses.

Authorizes the commissioner to appoint a state-wide advocate to serve as a liaison for certified businesses, assist with certification, investigate complaints, and report annually by November 15 on office activities.

Authorizes the department to commission an independent state-wide disparity study within 12 months of the article's effective date, updated every two years, to assess whether qualified minority, women, veteran, and rural businesses face disparities in state contracting and employment opportunities.

Establishes a certification framework for eligible businesses (at least 51% owned by minority group members, women, or veterans, or headquartered in tier 1 or tier 2 rural counties), with certifications valid for three years and a streamlined process accepting federal and municipal certifications.

Provides enforcement mechanisms including contractor utilization plans, good faith effort requirements, partial or total waiver processes, administrative hearings for complaints, and penalties for violations such as bid ineligibility for up to one year (or up to five years for repeat violations within five years).