The Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Program began in 1991 to increase minority and women owned business participation in state procurement and contracting from which such businesses had often experienced difficulty becoming involved. Although there have been many inroads made by HUBs over the last two decades, the percentage of contracts that they receive is unsatisfactory.

I am proud to announce the filing of HB 1281, this legislation will provide more opportunities for HUB’s to participate in the Texas procurement process and ensure they receive a fair share of state business. The bill will create preference for in state contractors to help promote economic growth in Texas, and implement a vendor rotation to expand utilization of underutilized HUB groups.

HB 1281 also creates a joint venture policy for large projects which will result in millions of dollars in contract awards to female and minority firms. Additionally, this legislation adds attorney services to the list of qualifying professional services within the HUB program.

Ron Reynolds represents Texas House District 27, which encompasses communities of Fort Bend County. Representative Reynolds currently serves as the Democratic Whip of the Texas House Democratic Caucus and a member of the House Committees on Elections and Environmental Regulations.