H.B. No. 4748 amends the Government Code to establish new purchasing methods and procedures for state agencies, specifically introducing a multiple award contract purchasing procedure. The bill adds Section 2156.0013, clarifying that the existing chapter does not apply to contracts for professional services as defined by Section 2254.002. Additionally, it creates Subchapter E, which outlines the definitions and processes related to multiple award contracts, including the criteria for their use, solicitation, evaluation, and ordering procedures.

Under the new provisions, state agencies and the comptroller can award contracts to multiple vendors for similar goods or services to ensure adequate delivery and compatibility. The bill mandates that agencies document their reasons for using the multiple award purchasing procedure and disclose their intent and criteria in the solicitation process. It also requires that each order placed under a multiple award contract must provide the best value to the state, with the possibility of conducting secondary solicitations among awarded vendors if necessary. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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