NY A00281

Allows cities with a population of one million or more to use minority- or women-owned business enterprise (MWBE) certification as a quantitative factor when evaluating bids for public contracts.

Permits cities with a population of one million or more to award up to $200,000 in purchase contracts to certified MWBEs without requiring a formal competitive bidding process.

Authorizes cities with a population of one million or more to establish capacity building programs to increase MWBE participation and ability to bid on and perform public contracts.

Allows the New York City Procurement Policy Board to permit agencies to procure goods, services, and construction for up to $200,000 from certified MWBEs without formal competitive processes.

Expands pre-qualification criteria for public works bidders to include consideration of demonstrated commitment to working with minority and women-owned businesses through joint ventures or subcontractor relationships.