MN HF1821

Removes veteran-owned small businesses from the general small targeted group business set-aside program in Minnesota Statutes section 161.321, subdivision 2, effective July 1, 2012.

Creates a separate bid preference program for veteran-owned small businesses under new subdivision 2a, providing up to six percent preference in construction contract bids and requiring proportional contract awards comparable to targeted group business programs.

Requires the commissioner to set subcontracting goals for prime contractors to use veteran-owned small business subcontractors, with authority to grant waivers when qualified businesses are unavailable and to impose financial incentives or penalties.

Authorizes county boards to establish independent bid preference programs for veteran-owned small businesses, allowing up to six percent preference for construction and procurement of goods and services, with similar subcontracting goal provisions.

Expands reporting requirements to include biennial reports to legislative committees on contract awards, preference usage, subcontracting performance, and any statutory or administrative impediments to program participation.