(30 ILCS 575/8b) (from Ch. 127, par. 132.608b) (Section scheduled to be repealed on June 30, 2029) Sec. 8b. Scheduled council meetings; sheltered market. The Council shall conduct regular meetings to carry out its responsibilities under this Act. At each of the regularly scheduled meetings, time shall be allocated for the Council to receive, review and discuss any evidence regarding past or present racial, ethnic or gender based discrimination which directly impacts State contracting with businesses owned by minorities, women, and persons with disabilities. If after reviewing such evidence the Council finds that there is or has been such discrimination against a specific group, race or sex, the Council shall establish sheltered markets or adjust existing sheltered markets tailored to address the Council's specific findings. "Sheltered market" shall mean a procurement procedure whereby certain contracts are selected and specifically set aside for businesses owned by minorities, women, and persons with disabilities on a competitive bid or negotiated basis. As part of the annual report which the Council must file pursuant to paragraph (e) of subsection (2) of Section 5, the Council shall report on any findings made pursuant to this Section.(Source: P.A. 100-391, eff. 8-25-17.) |