Kansas City's Contract Program Under Fire | Topeka News

Missouri’s Attorney General has launched a high-stakes federal lawsuit to shut down Kansas City’s minority- and women-owned business contracting program, claiming it violates the Equal Protection Clause by awarding contracts based on race and gender without proving past discrimination. With over 100 businesses relying on the program, the AG seeks an immediate injunction, while the city remains silent. Mayor calls the move politically motivated, but business owners like Cake A Boo’s Jaresha Rhone argue the program is vital — giving them a fair shot in a system that often overlooks them because of their race and gender. Two other businesses, Caccioppo and Industrial Salvage, are also plaintiffs. The court’s decision could reshape how Kansas City supports diverse entrepreneurs for years to come. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/65b2fa8ff0c7fb7c