Join the Urban League of Louisiana and the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development on Wednesday, October 22, 6:00pm-7:00pm, to learn about important changes to the DBE certification’s eligibility requirements, how the LA Unified Certification Program is impacted, and what steps you need to take now to prepare for compliance. This session is intended for current DBE firms and firms that want to become DBE-certified in the future.
The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) interim final rule (IFR), which became effective October 3, 2025, is a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) regulation that removes race- and sex-based presumptions from the definition of a "socially and economically disadvantaged individual". The rule requires businesses to prove disadvantage on a case-by-case basis and mandates that all existing certified DBEs be reevaluated and recertified or decertified under the new standards. The USDOT is accepting public comments on the rule until November 3, 2025.
Under the IFR:
- New DBE certification applicants must submit a personal narrative and supporting financial information to prove their disadvantage on a case-by-case basis.
- Existing DBEs must undergo a one-time reevaluation by their local Unified Certification Program (UCP) to determine if they still qualify for DBE certification.
During this session, Paula M. Roddy, Statewide Program Manager 2, Compliance Programs Section, Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, will review the IFR and the transition process, provide direct guidance on what actions existing and potential DBEs need to take, and answer audience questions.
Klassi Duncan, Vice President, Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Urban League of Louisiana, will also provide best practices for DBEs in drafting their personal narrative establishing the existence of disadvantage and how ULLA can support DBEs in the certification process moving forward.
There is no cost to attend. However, registration is required. Register today for this important update!
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the training.
