This bill amends various sections of Washington state law concerning public works contracting, particularly for districts and second-class cities or towns. Key provisions include the establishment of new thresholds for contract requirements, allowing districts to use unit priced contracts for anticipated work, and clarifying the definition of "exigent public works needs." It permits second-class cities and towns to utilize their own personnel for public works projects costing up to $300,000 under urgent circumstances, ensuring that all project costs encompass labor, materials, supplies, and equipment. Additionally, the bill modifies the criteria for determining the "lowest responsible bidder" by eliminating previous conditions that allowed for selecting a second lowest bidder, and mandates competitive bidding for contracts exceeding specified cost thresholds.

The bill also introduces amendments for first-class cities, allowing them to address exigent public works needs with in-house personnel for projects up to $300,000, while requiring documentation and reporting. It establishes that unit priced contracts must have an initial term of no more than three years, with an option for a one-year extension, and emphasizes the need for contractors to pay prevailing wages and submit annual affidavits. Furthermore, it mandates annual reporting by second-class cities to the Department of Commerce on bids awarded to certified minority or women contractors. The legislation aims to enhance transparency, promote diversity in contracting, and streamline procurement processes for public works projects while ensuring accountability and adherence to budgetary constraints.