Senate Bill No. 403 amends Oklahoma's county purchasing procedures by redefining the roles and responsibilities of county purchasing agents. The bill introduces provisions that allow purchasing agents to solicit telephone quotes if a selected vendor cannot fulfill their contract and enables consideration of the next lowest and best bidder. It also establishes exceptions to certain requisition or purchase requirements, allowing for more flexibility in procurement processes. Notably, the bill replaces the previous language that restricted purchases to "successful" bidders, now permitting purchases from "remaining" bidders at or below the bid price. Additionally, it removes the requirement that a one-time purchase from the next lowest bidder is only permissible if the low bidder is unable or unwilling to fulfill the contract.

The bill further clarifies purchasing thresholds, allowing for purchases under $25,000 without competitive bidding under specific conditions, and outlines the responsibilities of the county purchasing agent and clerk in managing purchase orders. It also updates the procedures for soliciting quotes when no bids are received and specifies the process for disposing of equipment and information technology goods. The bill mandates that resolutions for disposal be submitted to the board of county commissioners using a prescribed form and establishes requirements for counties to utilize a state purchase card program. Senate Bill No. 403 is set to take effect on November 1, 2025, following its passage in the Senate on March 24, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 19-1501, 19-1505
Floor (House): 19-1501, 19-1505
Floor (Senate): 19-1501, 19-1505
Engrossed: 19-1501, 19-1505
Enrolled (final version): 19-1501, 19-1505