In October, the Texas comptroller’s office announced a major change to its state contracting programs, ending the Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) program for women- and minority-owned businesses and launching the new Veteran Heroes United in Business, or VetHUB. The move aims to prioritize businesses owned and operated by disabled veterans, with eligibility extended to vets who have a 20% or higher service-connected disability. This shift has implications for small business owners and Veterans alike, connecting directly to the work of our Austin, TX service-connected disability lawyer.
Effectively immediately, businesses previously certified under HUB for race, ethnicity, or sex will no longer receive certification. However, vendors that already hold state contracts through the old HUB program will maintain their agreements. Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock stated that the emergency rules are designed to “ensure Texas’ state contracting is free from gender or race discrimination and keep the program centered on those who earned this support through their service.”
The decision has sparked a mix of reactions. Advocates for women- and minority-owned businesses, including Vidya Moorthy, president of Austin Business Women, described the change as disappointing. “What this does is it undoes the ability for women-owned and minority-owned businesses to even be considered, and I don’t think that is fair,” Moorthy said, emphasizing the importance of a level playing field. Lisa Beth Thomas with Texas Women in Business echoed these concerns, noting that the shift may discourage some from pursuing their entrepreneurial goals.
While these criticisms highlight concerns about fairness, the program’s new focus has been welcomed by disabled veterans, who can now access state contracting opportunities through VetHUB. By centering the program on service-connected disabilities, Texas officials aim to reward veterans for their service and provide meaningful pathways to economic opportunity.
Supporting Disabled Veterans With Legal Assistance
For veterans with service-related claims, programs like VetHUB illustrate the importance of resources tailored to those with disabilities. Our Austin service-connected disability attorneys help veterans make sure they receive the benefits and protections they have earned through military service. Whether it’s filing for new VA disability ratings, appealing denials, or understanding eligibility for state programs like VetHUB, our veterans disability lawyers provide guidance and advocacy at every stage.
Veterans with service-connected injuries or disabilities may face complicated paperwork, strict deadlines, and challenges in proving the severity of their conditions. Our VA disability benefits attorneys work directly with clients to gather medical evidence, complete claims, and represent them in appeals to maximize monthly compensation and access to health care. Additionally, our VA claims attorneys can help veterans understand how new initiatives, such as VetHUB, may impact business ownership opportunities and financial planning.
Programs that prioritize disabled veterans, like VetHUB, highlight the broader importance of legal support. By pairing state resources with the guidance of our skilled Austin service-connected disability lawyers, veterans can pursue economic, professional, and personal goals with confidence.
If you are a disabled veteran looking to understand your eligibility for VA benefits, business programs like VetHUB, or service-connected disability claims, contact Glover Luck LLP today to schedule a consultation. As members of the Texas Young Lawyers Association, we’re determined to represent our clients to the best of our ability. Our countless 5-star reviews show our success in that goal. If you’re looking for a team that will care about you, reach out to us today. Our experienced team is ready to advocate for your rights and guide you through the process, helping you maximize the benefits you have earned through your service.
