Bill would aid small firms, minorities.(legislation proposed by Rep. Beryl Roberts-Burke)

"Uphill battle" seen in state Legislature

Minority businesses, largely shut out of the government bidding process as affirmative action plans were legally or politically swept aside the past few years, have new hope in proposed legislation that could also dramatically alter the future development of Florida's small-business industry.

The sweeping legislation proposed by Rep. Beryl Roberts-Burke, D-Miami, is already attracting significant support.

Proponents include, among others, the Florida Conference of Black State Legislators, the National Organization for Women, the NAACP and the Florida Association of Minority Business Officials.

It …