Senate Bill 296 proposes significant changes to the process and regulations surrounding the Authorized State Building Program in Wisconsin. The bill removes the requirement for project enumeration during the design phase, stipulating that construction projects can only be enumerated if at least 50% of the design phase is completed. It also mandates the Department of Administration to provide quarterly reports to the Joint Committee on Finance regarding budget increases for building projects. Additionally, the threshold for selecting architects and engineers through a request-for-proposal process is raised from $7,400,000 to $15,000,000, and new provisions are introduced for high-cost projects, allowing the Building Commission to waive certain contracting requirements.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a timeline for the Claims Board to address specific contract claims, requiring a final determination within six months for claims related to transportation infrastructure or construction projects. It also clarifies responsibilities for utility service connection charges in construction contracts and promotes collaboration with energy service companies for sustainability projects. A transfer of $32,000,000 from the general fund to the building trust fund is also included in the bill. Overall, these changes aim to streamline project management, enhance accountability, and promote energy efficiency in state construction projects.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 13.48(4), 13.48, 16.867(2), 16.867, 20.924(1)(a), 20.924