HB 2653 - DIGEST

     Revises provisions of chapter 39.19 RCW to include disabled persons as well as minority and women owned businesses in the policy for increased level of participation in contracting opportunities.

     Establishes a capital "revolving" loan fund program for small loans under one hundred thousand dollars and microloans under ten thousand dollars to provide reduced interest rate loans to qualified disabled persons for capital assistance.

     Requires these loans to emphasize providing funds for business start-up and purchase of accommodations and adaptive equipment.

     Requires that disabled persons shall also be provided full access to small business development centers, training seminars, and other assistance programs as other types of minority, disadvantaged, and women's businesses.