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Local Lawmakers' Bill Gives Preference to State Businesses - January 09, 2008
BOSTON - Two Berkshire County legislators have sponsored a bill to amend the state's Uniform Procurement Act after one of their business constituents expressed concern over out-of-state buying.
The bill filed by Sen. Benjamin B. Downing, D-Pittsfield, and Rep. Christopher N. Speranzo, D-Pittsfield, is modeled after an existing statute giving preference for locally grown agricultural products It would allow Massachusetts governmental bodies to establish preference for products and services rendered by local businesses.
"We are attempting to give an edge to deserving businesses in the Commonwealth, while retaining tax revenue, creating job growth and spurring local economy," said Downing. "This is a commonsense measure that we hope will keep jobs in Massachusetts."
Last month, Christine Canning-Wilson, chief executive officer of New England Global Network LLC in Lanesborough contacted Downing and Speranzo with her concerns about the loss of state contract awards to out-of-state businesses.
New England Global Network had recently submitted a proposal for consideration through the RFR process vying for the state contract to update the civil service exam. Despite a comprehensive proposal and sterling reputation for test writing, New England Global Network was not awarded the contract. Rather, the contract was given to a Pennsylvania-based company, siphoning state tax dollars away from the commonwealth’s economy and narrowing job creation opportunities, said the lawmakers.
"This bill will go a long way to ensure that qualified Massachusetts businesses have an opportunity to win contracts for essential state services and keep our tax dollars in the commonwealth," said Speranzo.
"I am so pleased with the swift response and action of Senator Downing and Representative Speranzo," Canning-Wilson said. "This bill will benefit all Massachusetts businesses - especially small businesses - and is a great step towards improving the state’s economy."
An Act to Amend the Uniform Procurement Act was filed on Jan. 7. Downing and Speranzo expect that it will be admitted by the Senate and House of Representatives and be referred to a committee for consideration expeditiously. |
| Excellent. It is about time! | | from: Bryson K. Smythe | on: 01-21-2008 |
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