Bill H.244 amends existing laws regarding state contracting standards for advertising in Vermont. The bill updates the responsibilities of the Commissioner of Buildings and General Services, allowing for the delegation of purchasing authority to governmental agencies while ensuring that such authority adheres to the same limitations as the Commissioner. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions that mandate the Commissioner to contract with local news organizations for at least 70 percent of the total annual value of print and digital advertising services, as well as local broadcast organizations for radio and television advertising. Certain exceptions apply, allowing the Commissioner to exclude advertisements focused on tourism and job postings from these calculations.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a reporting requirement, mandating the Commissioner to submit an annual report to the General Assembly detailing the advertising services purchased by the state, including expenditures by entity and the locations of those funds. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 29-902(a), 29-902
As Passed By the House -- Official: 29-902(a), 29-902
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 29-902(a), 29-902