OH HB627

Director of administrative services shall set aside approximately 15% of competitive purchases for competition by minority business enterprises only, with only certified minority-owned businesses eligible to compete.

Eligible purchases for set-asides include: maintenance and repair of existing structures; relocation or reconfiguration of nonbearing walls and fixtures; construction-related products and supplies; and repainting, recarpeting, or renewal of finished surfaces.

Applies 15% set-aside requirement to all state agencies (except legislative, judicial, boards of elections, and adjutant general) authorized to make purchases.

Clarifies that architect or engineer plans are not required for purchases meeting the set-aside eligibility criteria under section 125.081.

Establishes penalties for intentionally misrepresenting ownership or control of a minority business enterprise to obtain contracts or benefits, making such conduct prosecutable as theft by deception.