(a) It is the policy of the department to:
(1) ensure nondiscrimination in the award and administration
of contracts in the department's highway, transit, and airport financial
assistance programs;
(2) create a level playing field on which DBEs can
compete fairly for contracts;
(3) ensure that the department's DBE program is narrowly
tailored in accordance with applicable law;
(4) ensure that only firms that fully meet the program's
eligibility standards are permitted to participate as DBEs;
(5) help remove barriers to the participation of DBEs
in contracts;
(6) assist the development of firms that can compete
successfully in the marketplace outside the DBE program; and
(7) provide appropriate flexibility to entities that
receive federal financial assistance through the department in establishing
and providing opportunities for DBEs.
(b) The department will circulate the policy statement
provided by this section throughout the department's organization.
The department will provide the statement to contractors, including
DBE contractors, trade associations, community organizations, minority
chambers of commerce, and appropriate special interest groups within
the state.
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