Aransas County, Texas, is launching an updated Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program to promote equity in public contracting. In a recent Commissioners’ Court meeting, the county has adopted a DBE Program to be used with airport development projects to ensure compliance with federal requirements. 

This will make the county qualify for funding under the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The DBE program follows the requirements of federal DBE rules set forth in 49 CFR Parts 23 and 26 that regulate participation of DBEs in transportation projects.

As part of their adoption, the commissioners designated the county’s contract and procurement specialists as the DBE liaison officers, tasked with overseeing the certification, outreach, and compliance requirements. 

This decision arrives at a time when DBE programs are being increasingly examined at the national level. Federal policymakers are searching for potential changes that may roll back historic contracting protections, while here in Illinois, the state Attorney General recently led a coalition of states advocating for continuing federal support for DBEs. 

Similar discussions have taken place at both the state and national levels, with proposals currently being considered by the White House that could substantially alter the future of DBEs.  

By creating its own DBE program, Aransas County is creating additional opportunities for SMEs. The local implications mirror much larger conversations in other regions around the country as well, where state leaders continue to advocate for retaining support for DBEs. Advocacy by each level of government reinforces the importance of ensuring equitable access and participation for every entity seeking government contracts.