The bill amends 19 O.S. 2021, Section 1500.1, to enhance the authority of county purchasing agents by allowing them to establish an online bidding process with vendors. This change aims to modernize procurement practices by enabling electronic commerce for various purchasing processes, including solicitations and bid submissions. The bill also clarifies that the boards of county commissioners can conduct procurement transactions electronically and outlines the requirements for online bidding, such as registration and prequalification of bidders.
Additionally, the bill removes the requirement for vendors to be authorized by a state contract as provided by the Office of Management and Enterprise Services, thereby broadening the scope of potential vendors for county procurement. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage and approval.