S3605

The New York State Senate passed S3605, sponsored by Sen. Webb, which expands data collection requirements for minority and women-owned business enterprise (MWBE) annual reports. The bill requires state agencies to report detailed information including the total number of MWBEs categorized by minority group and gender, whether contracts are for goods or services, the names and addresses of prime contractors and subcontractors, and the dollar value of each MWBE contract. During floor debate, Sen. Murray questioned whether the legislation addresses MWBE certification and recertification processes, noting that recertification is a difficult and ambiguous process. Webb acknowledged the bill does not explicitly include such language but expressed openness to considering it in separate legislation. Murray indicated he would support the bill and praised Webb's willingness to collaborate on future improvements. The Senate passed the measure 60-0 on a roll call vote. The bill takes effect immediately.