The bill amends K.S.A. 19-214 to increase the cost threshold for public bidding on construction contracts from $25,000 to $100,000. This change means that any contracts for the construction of courthouses, jails, county buildings, bridges, highways, roads, dams, turnpikes, or related structures that exceed $100,000 must be awarded through a public bidding process to the lowest and best bid. Additionally, the bill requires that any awarded contracts over $25,000 must be accompanied by a surety bond approved by the county attorney or counselor.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that certain expenditures are exempt from the public bidding requirements, including professional services, insurance contracts, and emergency repairs declared by the board of county commissioners. The definition of an emergency includes severe damage to a building or its equipment due to various causes, which must prevent the building from being used for its intended purpose. The existing section of K.S.A. 19-214 is repealed, and the act will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 68-169
As Amended by House Committee: 68-169
S Sub for: 19-214
Enrolled: 19-214