OCEAN TOWNSHIP – Senator Vin Gopal this Thursday introduced legislation (S4231) that would establish a new price preference program on State contracts for businesses owned by veterans with disabilities obtained in service. Under current law, many State contracts or purchases are publicly advertised and awarded to the lowest competitive bidder. This legislation would establish a price preference of up to 15 percent of the contract’s amount to the business of a qualified disabled veteran. In order to qualify, a business must be independently owned and operated, with a majority ownership by veterans with disabilities and a principal place of business within New Jersey

“Our veterans go to incredible lengths to serve and defend their fellow Americans,” said Senator Gopal (D-Long Branch), who serves as Chair of the Senate Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee. “Those who sacrifice their health or the use of one or more of their limbs in service to our nation make one of the greatest sacrifices of all, and no act can truly repay such selfless service. Even so, by supporting those businesses owned by disabled veterans, we can offer a small but meaningful sign of gratitude for those who have been disadvantaged or challenged as a result of their heroic efforts on behalf of our country.”