H.R.3258 - Parity in Engineering Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3258, the Parity in Engineering Act, aims to amend Title 23 of the United States Code to remove the exclusion of Minnesota from certain contracting requirements for engineering and design services. Currently, Section 112(b)(2)(F) of Title 23 singles out West Virginia and Minnesota. This bill seeks to strike Minnesota from that exclusion, treating it the same as other states. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on May 7, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to allow Minnesota to compete for engineering and design service contracts on the same basis as most other states. This could lead to increased competition and potentially lower costs for these services within the state. It also removes a perceived inequity in federal contracting law.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Competition: Removing the exclusion could foster greater competition among engineering firms.
- Potential Cost Savings: Increased competition may lead to lower costs for engineering and design services.
- Fairer Contracting Practices: Ensures Minnesota is treated equitably compared to other states in federal contracting.
- Economic Opportunities: Minnesota-based firms may have increased opportunities to secure federal contracts.
- Streamlined Processes: Simplifies the contracting process by removing a specific state exemption.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Disadvantage to Incumbent Firms: Firms that previously benefited from the exclusion may face increased competition.
- Possible Job Displacement: Increased competition could lead to some job displacement if less competitive firms lose contracts.
- Uncertainty in Short Term: There may be a period of adjustment as the new rules are implemented and firms adapt.
- Limited Impact: The impact may be relatively small if Minnesota firms are already competitive.
- Administrative Burden: Some administrative burden may be created in the short term as contracting processes are updated.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce among the several states. By removing a specific exclusion for Minnesota, the bill promotes a more uniform application of federal contracting laws. There are no apparent violations of individual rights or freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).