SACRAMENTO — Assembly Bill 1809, which would ensure that Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise programs are doing the most effective job of serving those who have served, has been presented in the Accountability and Administrative Review Committee on behalf of the Assembly Committee on Jobs, Economic Development and the Economy, according to Assemblywoman Christy Smith (D-Santa Clarita).

“Our veterans demonstrated the ultimate act of courage by defending our country, and the state’s DVBE program is a critical service that offers veterans a chance to gain experience in business and the entrepreneurial economy,” Smith said. “However, there are challenges in the DVBE procurement program that must be addressed and remedied.”

AB 1809, introduced by the members of the JEDE Committee, comes at the heels of 2014 and 2019 State Auditor reports. The bill addresses three core issues raised in the audits:

* Increase the number of DVBEs participating in state contracting
* Enhance tracking and evaluation of outreach activities
* Improve transparency of prime contractor certifications that DVBEs have been paid

“I’m proud AB 1809 addresses the nexus between uplifting our veterans and ensuring California’s economy stays prosperous,” Smith said. “When we talk about economic stimulus, we must promote participation in our economy from all Californians.”

“As Chair of the Assembly Jobs Committee, I am proud to work alongside my colleagues on the Committee to ensure that our veterans have the support they need to become entrepreneurs,” Assemblywoman Sabrina Cervantes (D-Corona) said.

AB 1809 received unanimous support from committee members. The bill heads to Assembly Appropriations Committee next.

Smith represents California’s 38th Assembly District, which includes the communities of Santa Clarita, Simi Valley, Agua Dulce, Castaic, Santa Susana Knolls and North San Fernando Valley.