Senate Bill 2777 Summary

• Establishes the Opportunities for Diversity in Contracting (ODC) Program administered by the Mississippi Development Authority to increase state contracts awarded to 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 attending semiannual MDA training sessions.

• Mandates all state contracts for goods and services include language prohibiting discriminatory employment practices, certifying compliance with fair labor laws, and encouraging use of certified ODC vendors as subcontractors.

• Directs the MDA to adopt rules establishing ODC certification procedures, agency procurement goals based on vendor availability, a point system for evaluating bids, and a waiver mechanism for agencies unable to meet participation requirements despite documented efforts.

• Requires state agencies to submit quarterly reports listing all ODC waivers granted and allows the MDA to audit agency administration of the waiver process, with MDA approval required for waivers if agencies fail to properly administer the process.