This bill amends the current law regarding exemptions from competitive bidding requirements for certain state agency projects. Specifically, it raises the threshold for exemption from $500,000 to $1,000,000 for projects undertaken by the Department of Fish and Game, the Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services (formerly the Adjutant General's Department), and the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The bill allows the commissioner to grant exclusions for specific projects under this new threshold if deemed in the best interests of the state. Additionally, it permits these departments to rent construction equipment for up to six months at competitive rates.

The fiscal impact of this bill is significant, as it is expected to decrease revenue for the Department of Administrative Services' Division of Public Works Design and Construction (DPW) due to fewer projects falling under the competitive bidding requirement. The estimated revenue decrease is projected to be $160,000 in FY 2026, $170,000 in FY 2027, and $180,000 in FY 2028. The bill does not provide funding for new positions, as the Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services has indicated that it can manage the increased workload with existing staff. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the bidding process for state agency projects while anticipating a reduction in revenue for the DPW.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-I:80
As Amended by the House: 21-I:80
Version adopted by both bodies: 21-I:80