Mass. Gov. Mandates Nation's First Affirmative Action Program for LGBT Contractors

[Geee]

CNS News:

(CNSNews.com) – Massachusetts Republican Gov. Charlie Baker issued an executive order last week mandating that the state add lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT)-owned businesses to its Supplier Diversity Program (SDP).

 

Baker touted the "first-in-the-nation LGBT-owned business certification partnership" between the state and the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC).

 

The SDP was established in 2010 to promote affirmative action by including minority- and women-owned businesses in public contracting.

 

In fiscal year 2014, the commonwealth awarded $991.5 million in total combined spending through the program’s Supplier Diversity Office.

 

In addition to adding businesses run by veterans and the disabled to the SDP list of approved contractors, LGBT-owned enterprises will also qualify for the program if they are certified by the NGLCC.