California Small Businesses: Interested in State Contracting? - Special Guest Blog by Angelin Barrios, WIPP Small Business Policy Analyst
4:51 PM June 24, 2010
Yesterday, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) held an oral argument on Rulemaking 09-07-027. The CUPC regulates privately owned electric, natural gas, telecommunications, water, railroad, rail transit, and passenger transportation companies. The CPUC issued a rule encouraging fair and full participation of women, minority, and disabled veteran-owned business enterprises in the CPUC's private procurement programs. I went as a representative for WIPP and for National Association of Women Business Owners - California (NAWBO-CA).
Representatives from the community groups and public utilities were on hand to discuss the status of women, minority, and disabled veteran-owned business enterprises. Representatives from PG&E, AT&T, and Verizon testified to their achievements in meeting self-imposed contracting goals. Community groups such as Mabuhay Alliance and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce were on hand to offer recommendations on how policies implemented by the public utilities can better serve the business community. Both sides agree that while it is commendable contracting goals have been met, there is still much to be done to incorporate more women, minority, and disabled veteran-owned business enterprises.
WIPP is thrilled to know that AT&T and Verizon, partners of WIPP, have met their contracting goals and are interested expanding their use of women and minority contractors. WIPP looks forward to working with the CPUC and the various public utilities to increase their outreach efforts to the small business community.
Leave a comment: