Order Aids Mass. Businesses Owned By Disabled Veterans

Small businesses owned by disabled veterans living in Massachusetts are getting better access to public contracts.

Gov. Deval Patrick has signed an executive order which he said will give disabled veterans "opportunity to succeed and grow" in the state.

Patrick said order will encourage access by disabled veteran-owned businesses to public contracts in the areas of construction, design as well as procurement of goods and service.

The order also directs the Executive Office of Administration and Finance to define the program's requirements and guidelines.

The office will then set a participation goal requirement for service disabled veteran-owned small businesses to help them gain access to contracts.

Lt. Gov. Tim Murray said the state has a moral obligation to support veterans who have sacrificed for the country.