The bill amends the Management and Budget Act of 1984 to update definitions and procurement processes for state contracts. It clarifies the definition of "institution of higher education" and introduces new terms such as "merit" and "JCOS." The legislation emphasizes that contracts for construction, repair, remodeling, or demolition must adhere to a competitive bidding process approved by the board. Additionally, it requires contractors to submit a form attesting to their merit-based hiring practices under penalty of perjury, with contracts being ineligible for those who do not comply. The bill also enhances the preference for qualified disabled veterans in contract awards, ensuring they receive a 10% bidding preference if they meet the necessary requirements.

Moreover, the bill introduces several definitions related to governmental entities, veterans, and financial terms, including a "qualified disabled veteran" as a business entity at least 51% owned by veterans with service-connected disabilities. It specifies criteria for defining a "veteran" and updates the definition of "strategic partner" to reference a specific section of the United States Code. Financial terminology is revised, including the definitions of "total state spending," "transfer payments," and "revolving fund," while replacing "bureau" with "Bureau" and "department" with "Department" in the context of the Economic Analysis of the United States. The bill aims to enhance clarity and precision in laws regarding veterans and state financial operations.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 18.1115