The bill aims to exempt local library cooperatives from certain provisions of the "Local Public Contracts Law" by amending Section 2 of P.L.1971, c.198 (C.40A:11-2). It introduces a definition for "local library cooperative" and specifies that these cooperatives are not classified as "contracting units." This change is intended to ease the regulatory burdens on local library cooperatives, allowing them greater flexibility in their procurement processes by removing the requirement for public bidding on goods and services they provide.
Additionally, the bill modifies the definition of "library and educational goods and services" to explicitly include those offered by local library cooperatives, ensuring their unique needs are recognized within the public contracting framework. The legislation also includes provisions that allow for the purchase of electricity generated from methane gas extracted from landfills, while reinforcing the principles of fair competition and integrity in contract negotiations. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 40A:11-2, 40A:11-5