Senate Bill 2753 Summary

• Establishes the Opportunities for Diversity in Contracting (ODC) Program administered by the Mississippi Development Authority to increase socially and economically disadvantaged small business participation in state contracts 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 enrollment, and attending semiannual MDA training.

• Mandates state agencies include contract language prohibiting discriminatory employment practices, certifying compliance with fair labor laws, and encouraging purchase of goods and services from certified ODC vendors.

• Authorizes MDA to establish agency procurement goals based on ODC business availability, implement a point system for bid evaluation, and create a waiver mechanism for agencies unable to meet participation requirements despite documented best efforts.

• Amends Mississippi Code Section 31-7-13 to require use of point systems established under the ODC Act when determining lowest and best bidders for purchases over $5,000 and for construction projects over $50,000.