Sacramento (CA) – Today, the California State Legislature passed legislation, SB 103, championed by the California Legislative Black Caucus that will increase procurement opportunities from the California Department of Transportation for minority owned small business enterprises.

“Taxes on gas and transportation hit disadvantaged communities the hardest,” said Assemblymember Chris Holden (AD-41), Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus. “Senate Bill 103 helps empower these communities by making sure minority owned small businesses are included in contracting opportunities for transportation projects made available through these funds.”

Specifically, Senate Bill 103 mandates the Department of Transportation to develop outreach plan intended to increase procurement opportunities for small business enterprises owned by women, minority, disabled veterans, LGBT, and other disadvantaged groups, in all the department’s transportation programs. This plan will be reviewed and audited by the Inspector General while CalTrans actively reports on its diversity progress.

SB 103 will also create greater opportunities for marginalized groups in apprenticeship programs, pre-bid meetings, and trainings for new contractors. Through targeted outreach efforts, recruitment and retention of diverse talent in the transportation industry is inevitable, especially for minorities, women, disadvantaged youth, and formerly incarcerated individuals.

“We were able to pass this legislation thanks to the leadership and hard work of Assemblymember Shirley Weber and Senator Steven Bradford,” said Holden.

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