The bill, HB320, amends Section 39-2-2 of the Code of Alabama 1975, which pertains to contracts for public works and the requirements for advertising sealed bids. Key provisions include a mandate for awarding authorities to publish public notices for contracts exceeding $100,000 at least once a week for three consecutive weeks in a local newspaper. If no local newspaper is available, the authority must post the notice on a bulletin board and send it via U.S. mail or electronic mail to interested parties. Additionally, the Department of Finance is required to establish a centralized website for public notices, which may involve fees for posting. The bill also clarifies conditions under which contracts can be awarded without standard advertising, specifies that contracts entered into in violation of these provisions are void, and outlines exemptions for certain contracts, including those for architectural and engineering services.

Moreover, the bill introduces amendments regarding the procurement process for heating and air conditioning units, ensuring compliance with design and installation requirements. It allows for emergency contracts to be awarded without public advertisement if there is an immediate threat to public health or safety, with a requirement for immediate public disclosure. The bill establishes stricter criteria for sole source materials and creates a Study Commission on Public Notice of Title 39 Advertisements to explore the centralized website for public notices. The commission will consist of appointed members from various organizations and is tasked with reporting its findings by the fifth legislative day of the 2026 Regular Session. The effective dates for different sections of the bill are set for October 1, 2025, and June 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39-2-2
Engrossed: 39-2-2
Enrolled: 39-2-2