For Immediate Release
6/20/07

CONTACT:

Carol Maravic
(717) 787-6725

Senate Passes Tomlinson Bill Promoting Veteran-Owned Businesses

The State Senate today approved legislation sponsored by Sen. Tommy Tomlinson (R-Bucks) which is designed to encourage state agencies to contract with veteran-owned businesses.

Senate Bill 87 would require the Department of General Services to head the effort, and would set an annual contracting goal of not less than 5 percent for businesses owned by veterans.   Under the bill, the Department of General Services would provide staff and training to help veteran-owned businesses learn how to apply for state contracts.  The department would also compile and make available lists of veteran-owned businesses to encourage procurement.          

In addition, the bill emphasizes the importance of training and hiring veterans who are returning home by requiring the Department of General Services to identify businesses that do hire veterans and certify them as "veteran workforce utilization businesses."

"This legislation will help to ensure that the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania gives our veterans proper consideration for contracting opportunities with state government," Tomlinson said. "It is also a fitting demonstration of our country's ongoing commitment to assist those who have sacrificed so much to protect our nation and its citizens.  When our soldiers return home, this will help them in rebuilding their lives in our communities."

Tomlinson said his legislation is an outgrowth of a successful program, VETWORK YOUR BUSINESS, which was launched in 2005 by The Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce.  It provides veteran owned businesses with the training and contacts necessary to access large private sector companies for contract opportunities.

"Senate Bill 87 would take this concept and apply it to state contracting to ensure that veterans are aware of the business opportunities that are available to them with Commonwealth agencies," he said.  "This legislation will give veterans access to valuable business resources, tools, contacts, and networks that will help them to grow and succeed."

Senate Bill 87 now goes to the House for consideration.