The bill establishes the Department of Central Purchasing, which will assume the responsibilities of the Central Purchasing Division of the Office of Management and Enterprise Services. A Director appointed by the Governor will oversee the new department, which will manage the transfer of records, assets, and responsibilities while ensuring that existing contractual rights are preserved. The bill also includes provisions for the coordination of personnel transfers from the Office of Management and Enterprise Services to the new department, safeguarding employee salaries, leave, and benefits. Additionally, it amends various sections of Oklahoma statutes to replace references to the Central Purchasing Division with the Department of Central Purchasing, streamlining the purchasing process at the county level and enhancing compliance with state regulations.

Furthermore, the bill outlines specific procedures for county departments regarding the procurement of supplies and equipment, detailing the roles of county clerks and purchasing agents in managing purchase orders and verifying deliveries. It also transfers purchasing authority from the Office of Management and Enterprise Services to the Department of Central Purchasing, allowing the Department of Corrections to engage in purchasing activities related to prison industries. The legislation emphasizes transparency and accountability by mandating monthly transaction reports for state purchase card usage and introducing penalties for false compliance affidavits. Overall, the bill aims to improve the efficiency, compliance, and oversight of state procurement activities while promoting best practices in purchasing.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 19-1505, 61-139, 74-85.5, 74-85.7, 74-85.12, 74-3001, 74-3003, 74-3004, 74-3004.1, 74-3004.2, 74-3005, 74-3006, 74-3007, 74-3008, 74-3009