Raised Bill No. 1499 seeks to enhance the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of state contracting processes by implementing recommendations from the State Contracting Standards Board. The bill establishes that appropriations for the board will be based on expenditure estimates from its executive director, prohibiting the Governor from reducing related allotments. It introduces new definitions and clarifications regarding contracting processes, including terms like "best value selection" and "contract risk assessment," while repealing and replacing Section 4e-1 of the general statutes to update definitions related to state contracts. Notably, it removes references to "quasi-public agencies" in the definition of "contract" and introduces terms such as "contractor" and "contractual services," broadening the scope of entities involved in state contracting.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the Chief Procurement Officer, who will oversee compliance with procurement laws and provide training for procurement officers. It mandates that state contracting agencies appoint an agency procurement officer and ensures that all solicitations include a notice of rights for prospective bidders. The bill also revises the authority of the State Contracting Standards Board, allowing it to review and terminate contracts for cause, and establishes a Contracting Standards Advisory Council to discuss procurement issues. Furthermore, it introduces new provisions regarding privatization contracts, requiring comprehensive evaluations and business cases for contracts that yield significant cost savings. Overall, Raised Bill No. 1499 aims to streamline procurement processes while ensuring ethical standards and accountability in state contracting.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 12-815