MS HB276

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

Requires each state agency to appoint an ODC compliance officer responsible for monitoring compliance, analyzing spending opportunities for ODC vendors, reporting enrollment data, and implementing a scorecard system to track ODC expenditures

Creates certification categories for ODC business enterprises including construction, architecture and engineering, professional services, goods and services, and information technology services, with agency procurement goals based on percentage participation levels

Mandates that state agency contracts include language prohibiting discriminatory employment practices, certifying compliance with labor laws, and encouraging contractors to purchase from certified ODC vendors

Amends existing procurement law to require use of a point system or comparable system established under the ODC Act when determining the lowest and best bidder for purchases over $5,000