The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) embarked in April of 2021 on conducting a nationwide small, minority-owned and woman-owned business disparity study. The disparity study seeks to determine if a level playing field for all subcontractors exists in FRA procurement, and, if not, what steps may be taken to remedy disparities. The study is the first step in potentially establishing a disadvantaged business enterprise (DBE) program for FRA contracts.
As part of the disparity study, FRA will be seeking comment from businesses that wish to do business, have done business, or have attempted to do business, with the FRA, in order to learn more about their experiences (the FRA is seeking comment from businesses that have subcontracted with such businesses, as well).
The study is invitation-only, and those wishing to take part should contact FRA's Civil Rights Director at 202-493-0669 or FRADisparityStudy@dot.gov. Once the survey and the study itself is complete, results will be submitted to the United States Congress, which will consider the need for a FRA DBE program.
"We are firmly committed to [...] ensuring that women and minority-owned businesses have a fair shot at contracting opportunities," FRA Acting Administrator Amit Bose said in a statement.
Read more in a press release at https://railroads.dot.gov/newsroom/press-releases/fra-taking-steps-advance-minority-and-women-owned-business-participation-0.
Find more info about the disparity study at https://railroads.dot.gov/disparity.
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