ADVOCATING THE ROLE OF WOMEN AND MINORITIES

Harrisburg, Nov. 13, 2003 – State Sen. Connie Williams served as a consultant to small business before being elected to state office and she has a first-hand understanding of the problems that face minority- and women-owned businesses in Pennsylvania. She also knows the important contributions these business owners can make to their local community and to the state’s economy.

Earlier this year, Gov. Edward G. Rendell called on the senator to share her knowledge as part of an Ad Hoc Committee on Minority and Women Business Opportunities in Pennsylvania, with the goal of seeking new ways to foster and promote minority and women business opportunities in the Commonwealth.

“I am delighted to serve on this committee,” Williams said. “This certainly is not a new issue for me, but it is an important one. There are significant roadblocks that minority- and women-owned businesses face as they compete for government contracts.

“Along with the governor, I believe that we can make a difference and that there is no better time than now.”

The committee, which was formed in September, has set a goal of 10 percent participation by minority- and women-owned businesses in state contracts. Additionally, the committee seeks to increase the pool of qualified vendors by accepting certification from national entities and developing reciprocal agreements with other governments.

Additionally in 2003, the bureau that oversees women business opportunities was renamed from the Bureau of Contract Administration and Business Development to the Bureau of Minority and Women Business Opportunities.

“Lackluster performance in this area has been obvious,” Williams said. “When I initially took office, I introduced legislation, which I have reintroduced each session ever since, to advocate for minority- and women-owned businesses in Pennsylvania. My legislation dovetails nicely with the goals of the committee.”

Williams’ legislation (S.B. 933) would create the Women’s Business Ownership Council within the Department of Community and Economic Development. In an effort to assure that women business owners are able to achieve economic equality as well as contribute to the Commonwealth’s economic growth, the council would lobby the legislature, hold hearings, conduct workshops and develop mentorship programs.

“The time is right for these initiatives and with the governor’s support, along with the support of this committee and the General Assembly, changes can be made to improve the opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses,” Williams said. “I’m delighted to part of making this happen in Pennsylvania.”