NY A05243

Requires standardized certification forms completed under penalty of perjury from both prime contractors and minority/women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs) confirming actual performance of contracted services or materials before payment is made.

Directs the director to create an internet-based, searchable centralized state registry detailing MWBE certifications, denials, waivers, and all contract documents, and authorizes inspections of business facilities and financial records to ensure compliance.

Establishes penalties for fraudulent misrepresentation including contractor ineligibility to bid for up to one year for first violations and up to five years for subsequent violations within five years, with a public website listing ineligible contractors.

Creates the "minority and women-owned business enterprise fund" in the joint custody of the state comptroller and commissioner of taxation and finance to receive fines, court-ordered payments, and appropriations for audits, investigations, fraud prosecution, and MWBE development programs.

Takes effect immediately for all provisions except those relating to Article 15-A of the executive law, which expire with that article.