The bill amends Section 37-2-13.1 of the General Laws in Chapter 37-2, titled "State Purchases," to regulate the process of procurement through requests for proposal (RFPs) and the establishment of master-price agreements. It specifies that an RFP cannot be changed to a master-price agreement unless the RFP is canceled and reissued accordingly. Additionally, the bill introduces new language that prohibits any vendor, parent corporation, subsidiary, affiliate, or subcontractor of a state vendor from bidding on an RFP if they have a conflict of interest as defined in chapter 14 of title 36 or if they materially participated in or were consulted about the RFP, except in situations outlined in a new subsection (f).

The bill also adds new provisions, including one that prevents entities that operate or provide services for the state from participating in RFPs related to audits or evaluations of their own work. It requires a written certification of compliance with these terms under penalty of perjury. Exemptions to these requirements are provided for "sole source" providers and certain situations such as requests for information, emergency procurements, feasibility studies, and preliminary evaluations, provided certain conditions are met. The bill emphasizes the importance of fair opportunity for all potential suppliers to present their capabilities and products. The act would take effect immediately upon passage, and it aims to prevent conflicts of interest in state procurement processes by aligning with the code of ethics.

Statutes affected:
8348: 37-2-13.1