MS HB1578

Authorizes the Department of Finance and Administration, in consultation with the State Veterans Affairs Board and Mississippi Development Authority, to set annual goals for service-connected disabled veteran-owned small business participation in state contracts and procurements.

Allows state agencies to give preference to certified service-connected disabled veteran-owned small businesses in public contract bidding when bids are substantially equal in quality and service but differ only in price, if the veteran-owned business bid is not more than 10% higher than the lowest competing bid.

Defines "service-connected disabled veteran" as a veteran with at least 30% service-connected disability rating from the federal Veterans Affairs agency, and requires such businesses to be at least 51% owned by qualifying veterans.

Requires entities seeking certification to submit federal documentation as defined by the State Veterans Affairs Board with each bid or quotation, and authorizes the Mississippi Development Authority to maintain and publish a current listing of certified businesses.

Takes effect July 1, 2016.