House Bill 222 Summary

• Establishes the Opportunities for Diversity in Contracting (ODC) Program administered by the Mississippi Development Authority to increase state contracts with socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses with net worth not exceeding $750,000.

• Requires each state agency to appoint an ODC compliance officer responsible for monitoring program compliance, analyzing spending opportunities, tracking ODC vendor participation, and reporting to the MDA.

• Mandates state agencies include contract language prohibiting discriminatory employment practices, certifying compliance with fair labor laws, and encouraging use of certified ODC vendors as subcontractors.

• Requires state agencies to have ODC waivers reviewed by procurement officers and ODC compliance officers, submit quarterly waiver reports to the MDA, and submit to periodic audits; MDA must approve subsequent waivers if agencies fail to properly administer the process.

• Amends Section 31-7-13 of Mississippi Code to require use of point systems established under the ODC Act when determining lowest and best bidders for purchases over $5,000.