43 TAC § 9.201. Policy

(a) It is the policy of the department to:

(1) ensure nondiscrimination in the award and administration of contracts in the department's highway, transit, and airport financial assistance programs;

(2) create a level playing field on which DBEs can compete fairly for contracts;

(3) ensure that the department's DBE program is narrowly tailored in accordance with applicable law;

(4) ensure that only firms that fully meet the program's eligibility standards are permitted to participate as DBEs;

(5) help remove barriers to the participation of DBEs in contracts;

(6) assist the development of firms that can compete successfully in the marketplace outside the DBE program; and

(7) provide appropriate flexibility to entities that receive federal financial assistance through the department in establishing and providing opportunities for DBEs.

(b) The department will circulate the policy statement provided by this section throughout the department's organization. The department will provide the statement to contractors, including DBE contractors, trade associations, community organizations, minority chambers of commerce, and appropriate special interest groups within the state.