HB1655

House Bill 1655 amends the Arkansas Code to encourage state agencies to prioritize new businesses in the state procurement process. Specifically, it directs the Office of State Procurement to encourage state agencies to award at least five percent of their contracts to Arkansas-based businesses that have been in operation for fewer than five years. The bill establishes a clear definition for state agencies involved in this procurement process. Its primary intent is to foster economic growth by providing state-level contracting opportunities to emerging businesses within the state. The legislation seeks to create a more supportive environment for startups and relatively new enterprises by integrating them into the state's supply chain.