SB1096

THE CONTEXT: Current law prohibits the state, a political subdivision of the state or an agency, board, commission or department (public entity) from entering into or renewing a contract under specific circumstances. For example, public entities may not enter into a contract with a value of $100,000 or more with a company to acquire or dispose of services, supplies, information technology or construction unless the contract includes a written certification that the company is not currently engaged in, and agrees for the duration of the contract to not engage in, a boycott of goods and services from Israel.

WHAT THE BILL DID: The final vetoed version would prohibit a public entity from entering into a contract with a value of $100,000 or more with a company to acquire or dispose of services, supplies, information technology or construction unless the contract includes a written certification that the company does not currently, and agrees for the duration of the contract that it will not, discriminate against a firearm entity or firearm trade association, allow a public entity to comply with the certification requirement by including a written certification submitted by the company as part of the procurement process, and prohibit a public entity from adopting a procurement, an investment or any other policy that has the effect of inducing or requiring a person or company to discriminate against a firearm entity or firearm trade association.

WHY IT MATTERED: The practical reason for this bill was to give the people who rely on the rule clearer information and a defined reporting process. It would prohibit a public entity from entering into a contract with a value of $100,000 or more with a company to acquire or dispose of services, supplies, information technology or construction unless the contract includes a written certification that the company does not currently, and agrees for the duration of the contract that it will not, discriminate against a firearm entity or firearm trade association, and would also allow a public entity to comply with the certification requirement by including a written certification submitted by the company as part of the procurement process, rather than leave the current rule unchanged.