The bill amends Section 41-16-51 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to expand exemptions from competitive bidding requirements for public contracts. It introduces a new exemption for purchases of goods or services between municipalities and governmental entities, as defined in Section 8-38-2, which aims to streamline the procurement process and provide more flexibility in purchasing decisions. Additionally, the bill deletes language that specifies competitive bidding requirements do not apply to contracts under Chapter 15 of Title 11 or Chapter 56 of Title 11 concerning the construction and equipment of buildings for public building authorities, thereby reducing bureaucratic hurdles in the development and management of public facilities.

Furthermore, SB234 modifies purchasing procedures for educational and governmental entities by clarifying exemptions from competitive bidding, particularly for local housing authorities using non-tax-derived funds. It also allows for the purchase of services related to crime prevention and community policing. The bill mandates that various educational institutions and local government bodies establish purchasing facilities to comply with competitive bidding requirements, declaring any contracts that violate these provisions void and imposing penalties for breaches as a Class C felony. The act is set to take effect on June 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 41-16-51
Engrossed: 41-16-51
Enrolled: 41-16-51