(1) It is the intent of the Legislature that the department encourage participation by minority business enterprises as defined in s. 288.703. Accordingly, 15 percent of the retailers shall be minority business enterprises as defined in s. 288.703(3); however, no more than 35 percent of such retailers shall be owned by the same type of minority person, as defined in s. 288.703(4). The department is encouraged to meet the minority business enterprise procurement goals set forth in s. 287.09451 in the procurement of commodities, contractual services, construction, and architectural and engineering services. This section shall not preclude or prohibit a minority person from competing for any other retailing or vending agreement awarded by the department. (2) The department is directed to undertake training programs and other educational activities to enable minority persons to compete for such contracts on an equal basis.
