The bill HB168 amends the Code of Alabama 1975 concerning public works contracts, primarily increasing the competitive bidding threshold from $50,000 to $100,000. It introduces new provisions for electronic notice procedures and the acceptance of electronic sealed bids, while also requiring contractors to execute performance and payment bonds with specific civil action requirements for claims. The notice requirements for contract completion are modified, allowing contractors to publish completion notices for a minimum of three weeks through various methods, and stipulating that final settlements cannot occur until 30 days after the completion notice is published.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of "awarding authority" to include the Division of Real Property Management and allows for contracts to be awarded without public advertisement in emergencies affecting public health or safety. It updates the oversight of sole source materials and permits electronic bid submissions with security measures. The bill also mandates that plans and specifications be made available for review, allows for life cycle cost evaluations in bid determinations, and establishes penalties for collusion among bidders. Overall, HB168 aims to modernize the procurement process for public works while ensuring transparency and accountability.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 41-16-50, 41-16-51, 41-16-52, 41-16-53, 41-16-54, 41-16-55