Recent court decisions and new federal policies are throwing a wrench in government programs designed to improve gender and racial diversity on highway projects in Minnesota and beyond.
Earlier this year, President Donald Trump issued a directive “seeking to curtail diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives by federal agencies and outside entities receiving federal funds,” according to the Associated General Contractors of Minnesota.
Dominoes are also falling in the court system. In 2024, for example, two highway contractors successfully sued the U.S. Department of Transportation and other defendants, alleging reverse discrimination.
What does all this mean for Minnesota contractors and small businesses, including women- and minority-owned companies?
Colette Holt takes a stab at answering that question.
A lawyer with decades of experience in government contracting, DBE and other affirmative-action programs, Holt — founder of San Antonio-based Colette Holt & Associates — has been closely following the changing landscape.
In this interview, Holt talks about the future of DBE programs in Minnesota and beyond, and how under-represented businesses can protect their interests, among other topics.