STATE CONTRACTING, PURCHASING TO BE DISCUSSED

SIKESTON -- Encouraging businesses run by women and minorities to participate in state contracts is the focus of a new study by the Missouri Department of Economic Development.

A public hearing Saturday will discuss the state's past and current contracting and purchasing practices involving minority and women-owned businesses. The hearing is set for 4 p.m. at the Banquets Beyond The Bay in the Kingsway Plaza in Sikeston.

The study will assess whether there is a need for a state enterprise program promoting minorities and women in business. The assessment is a result of a U.S. Supreme Court decision.

Women and minority business owners are asked to attend this meeting to learn how to participate in the study and increase their business opportunities. Several state officials are planning to attend.