Submitted in support of HB842 based on direct experience with public-sector procurement, compliance, and construction contracting in Virginia.

As an owner of a SWaM Certified, Native American for-profit Entity, I ask that you vote YES in support of this HB842. Post Pandemic has been extremely difficult for small business owners, contractors, who have been negatively impacted by the dismantling of small business programs throughout the world. By approving this Bill, it will show that the Commonwealth of Virginia cares about small businesses and are committed to doing what is right to keep small businesses at the contracting table. Our livelihood and our children's legacies are depending on your vote in support of small businesses. Thank you,

I support HB842 because it brings fairness back to what it actually means to be a small business. Companies with hundreds of employees have resources that businesses like mine simply do not. When businesses with up to 250 employees are treated as “small,” truly small, independently owned businesses are pushed out of opportunities meant for us. HB842 recognizes that size matters and helps level the playing field so smaller businesses can compete, grow, and create jobs. Virginia’s procurement system should support businesses that are truly small, not just small on paper. Thank you.

HB842 helps level the playing field for Virginia’s small businesses. It ensures that contracts intended for small businesses actually go to small businesses — not large companies with the resources to outcompete them. This bill supports entrepreneurs, protects local jobs, and strengthens communities across the Commonwealth. When small businesses succeed, Virginia’s economy is more resilient and more equitable. I urge the House to support HB842 and stand with the small business owners this legislation is meant to serve. Thank you for your consideration.

Comments Document

Letter of support urging House committee members to advance Virginia HB842, which refines small business procurement definitions and expands contracting opportunities.