MD HB1177

Requires the State certification agency to develop an outreach program to increase veteran-owned small business participation in the Small Business Reserve Program, in consultation with the Office of Small, Minority, and Women Business Affairs, the Military Department, and the Department of Veterans and Military Families.

Mandates outreach to units of government that are exempt from state procurement requirements to encourage their use of veteran-owned small business enterprises.

Requires the certification agency to submit an annual report by December 1 to the Board of Public Works and Legislative Policy Committee on the outreach program status and the total number and dollar value of awards made to veteran-owned small businesses under designated reserve contracts.

Effective date: October 1, 2026.