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OMWBE outlines USDOT interim rule that requires DBE recertifications and new eligibility evidence
Summary
Washington OMWBE staff told the commission that the USDOT Interim Final Rule effective Oct. 3, 2025, removes the presumption of disadvantage based on race and sex and requires personal narratives and net‑worth documentation, prompting an obligation to reevaluate certified DBEs and ACDBEs.
Sharon Harvey Hughes, Legislative Policy Director for the Washington State Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises, told commissioners the USDOT Interim Final Rule (effective Oct. 3, 2025) "remov[es] the presumption of disadvantage based on race and sex" and changes certification requirements for DBE and ACDBE programs. Hughes said applicants must now provide a personal narrative, specific examples of economic hardship or systemic barriers, a personal net‑worth statement and related financial information.
Hughes and Certification Supervisor Lee Lim said OMWBE must reevaluate all currently certified DBEs and ACDBEs to determine eligibility under the IFR and decertify firms that no longer meet the standard; recipients must complete reevaluations before setting DBE contract goals. Commissioners were informed of the procedural and documentation changes; no certification decisions were made at this meeting.
