Assemblywoman Christy Smith, D-Santa Clarita, presented Assembly Bill 1809 Wednesday in the Accountability and Administrative Review Committee on behalf of the Assembly Committee on Jobs, Economic Development and the Economy.
The Assemblywoman said in a news release Thursday that the legislation was authored in an attempt to ensure that Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) programs are doing the most effective job of serving those who have served.
“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.”
Assemblywoman Sabrina Cervantes, D-Corona, who chairs the Assembly Jobs Committee, said she is happy to work alongside Smith and other colleagues on the committee to ensure that veterans have the support they need to become entrepreneurs.
“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.”
After receiving unanimous support, AB 1809 is slated for Assembly Appropriations Committee.
