Assembly backs amendment to streamline MWBE recertification process

Assemblymember Ms. Walsh explained her vote on Jan. 13, 2026, in favor of a chapter amendment intended to streamline recertification for Minority- and Women‑Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs). She said the bill addresses a problem where businesses that had completed initial certification were required to repeat much of the same process at recertification, creating delays and discouraging participation.

"What this bill is trying to do is just to streamline the process so that we can encourage more MWBEs to apply and to be recertified," Ms. Walsh said on the floor, adding that the amendment was designed to reduce redundant paperwork and delays. She thanked Assemblymember McDonald for assistance with the earlier bill.

The clerk recorded the vote for the consent bundle that included this chapter amendment; the measure was declared passed by the clerk with vote tallies announced during the session.

Why it matters: MWBE certification affects which firms are eligible for state contracting and procurement preferences. Streamlining recertification can reduce administrative burden on certified firms and help the state meet MWBE participation goals, advocates say. The Assembly handled the amendment on the consent calendar, so the chamber did not hold extended debate on the measure during this floor session.

The session adjourned with the Assembly set to reconvene Jan. 14 at 2 p.m.