OH SB291

Establishes a new veteran-owned business enterprise (VOBE) certification program administered by the Director of Development under Chapter 119 rules.

Defines a VOBE as a business owned and controlled at least 51% by a U.S. citizen veteran resident of Ohio who has been in ownership for at least one year and has control over day-to-day operations.

Allows certified VOBEs and women-owned business enterprises (WOBEs) to compete for state contracts set aside for disadvantaged business enterprises, with approximately 15% of state purchases reserved for such enterprises.

Requires the Director of Development to establish certification procedures, standards for decertification, complaint mediation processes, and self-reporting/inspection systems to validate VOBE qualifications.

Protects financial information and trade secrets submitted by VOBE applicants from public disclosure unless presented in a public hearing regarding eligibility.