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Poll results

Obtaining a diverse business certification from the state government can open a company up to additional sources of revenues, although obtaining the certification from the Massachusetts Supplier Diversity Officer is an arduous and months-long process. Businesses at least 51% owned or dominantly controlled by a member of a qualifying minority group, woman, or military veteran can obtain the certification, although they must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. The Boston-based Asian Business Empowerment Council recommended dropping the citizenship/residency requirement, in order to lower the barrier to entry, as part of a survey released in June showing Asian-owned businesses, particularly those operated by immigrants, are struggling more than the average business in the current economy. 

Should Massachusetts remove the citizenship requirement for companies to receive diverse business certifications?
Yes, lifting the requirement would mean more businesses would have a better chance at financially succeeding. (8%, 12 VOTES)
Yes, it would expand the number of businesses in the SDO database, helping identify diverse businesses for public projects. (5%, 8 VOTES)
No, a business shouldn’t benefit from state-run programs or projects if its owner isn’t a citizen or permanent resident. (68%, 108 VOTES)
No, adding businesses owned by non-citizens to the SDO database would crowd out those that underwent the more difficult process. (19%, 31 VOTES)
Poll Description

Obtaining a diverse business certification from the state government can open a company up to additional sources of revenues, although obtaining the certification from the Massachusetts Supplier Diversity Officer is an arduous and months-long process. Businesses at least 51% owned or dominantly controlled by a member of a qualifying minority group, woman, or military veteran can obtain the certification, although they must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. The Boston-based Asian Business Empowerment Council recommended dropping the citizenship/residency requirement, in order to lower the barrier to entry, as part of a survey released in June showing Asian-owned businesses, particularly those operated by immigrants, are struggling more than the average business in the current economy. 

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