HI HCR57

Requests the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) to commission an independent statewide disparity study on woman-owned and minority-owned business participation in state contracts funded by federal sources including the Inflation Reduction Act, CHIPS Act of 2022, and energy-related federal allocations.

Study must examine total federal funds allocated to Hawaii, number of projects/grants delivered, bidding and procurement methods, and whether disparities exist between available woman-owned and minority-owned businesses and those actually engaged in state contracts.

Requires DBEDT to submit study findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Governor and Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2025 Regular Session convenes, and post the completed study on its website for public access.

Within one year of study completion, DBEDT must establish goals for equitable participation, certification procedures for woman-owned and minority-owned businesses, and data collection systems to track actual participation in state contracting.

Requests all state contracting agencies to assess contractors' diversity practices where practicable and feasible, and promote achievement of DBEDT's equitable participation goals for woman-owned and minority-owned businesses.