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 requiring contractors to execute performance bonds equal to 100% of the contract price and payment bonds of at least 50%. The bill also modifies notification requirements for contract completion, allowing for publication in various formats and stipulating that final settlements cannot occur until 30 days after the completion notice is published. Additionally, it clarifies definitions related to public works and specifies that contracts exceeding the new threshold cannot be split to evade bidding requirements.

Moreover, HB168 outlines exceptions to the bidding requirements for contracts of $100,000 or less, particularly in emergency situations that threaten public health or safety, allowing for immediate contract awards without public advertisement. The bill updates oversight for sole source materials and permits electronic submission of sealed bids with appropriate security measures. It mandates transparency by requiring awarding authorities to make plans and cost estimates available for review and establishes penalties for collusion among bidders. The act aims to streamline the public contracting process while enhancing accountability and transparency, with an effective date set for three months post-approval by the Governor.

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