Representative Don Clemons (D-Bridgeport) announced the state has funded a study he pushed for to gather data concerning the state’s minority contractor set-aside program to determine whether intended goals are being achieved.
“It’s about time we did a comprehensive study of the set-aside program,” Rep. Clemons said. “This is the only way we can figure out if the program is working or if we have to pursue legislative changes to make it work.”
The intent of the study is to determine whether there is significant evidence of past or continuing discrimination in the way the state’s contracting rules are executed. Other questions the study seeks to answer: the number of legitimate and qualified minority owned businesses and if there are unintentional barriers that prevent minority contractors from fully participating in the set-aside program. The study will be funded in the amount of $500,000 in 2012 and 2013.
“We need to find out if there are barriers or abuses in the program to make sure it is reaching those contractors that desperately need the business to keep people employed,” Rep. Clemons added.
Don Clemons represents the 124th district in Bridgeport. In addition to serving as Majority Caucus Chair, he serves on the Appropriations, Judiciary and Public Safety & Security committees
