Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] proposes an amendment to R.S. 38:2212(C)(3)(a) regarding public contracts for the restoration or rehabilitation of levees not maintained with federal funds. The bill increases the annual limit for such work from $1,000,000 to $1,500,000. This limit includes costs for labor, materials, and equipment, which are not subject to public bidding, and is based on the rates outlined in the latest edition of the Associated Equipment Distributors Rental Rate Book. Additionally, the bill maintains the provision that administrative overhead cannot exceed fifteen percent, provided the work is conducted by the public entity using its own resources or through cooperative agreements with other public entities.

The proposed changes aim to enhance the capacity of public entities to manage levee restoration and rehabilitation projects effectively, particularly in areas where federal funding is not available. The bill is set to take effect on August 1, 2025, allowing for increased funding flexibility for public entities engaged in these critical infrastructure projects.

Statutes affected:
SB167 Original: 38:2212(C)(3)