It is recognized by this state that the preservation and expansion of the American economic system of private enterprise is through free competition, but it is also recognized that the security and well-being brought about by such competition cannot be realized unless the actual and potential capacity of minority business enterprises is encouraged and developed. Therefore, it is the intent of the Legislature that the state ensure that minority business enterprises are not underrepresented in the area of procurement of state contracts for construction, services, equipment and goods. It is further the intent that this state provide for the aggressive solicitation of minority business enterprises, provide a feasibility study on a Small Business Surety Bond Guaranty Program, provide other programs targeted for assisting minority business enterprises in qualifying for state bids, and establish a percentage preference bid program for minority business enterprises who desire to participate in such program.
Added by Laws 1987, c. 191, § 3, operative July 1, 1987.