Assembly Bill 284 proposes significant changes to the process and requirements surrounding the Authorized State Building Program in Wisconsin. Notably, it 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. The bill also mandates the Department of Administration to provide quarterly reports to the Joint Committee on Finance regarding budget increases for building projects, and it raises the threshold for selecting architects and engineers from $7,400,000 to $15,000,000. Additionally, it introduces a new exception to single prime contracting for projects costing $200,000,000 or more, allowing the Building Commission to waive certain requirements upon request.

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 utility cost responsibilities in construction contracts and mandates collaboration between the Department of Administration and the University of Wisconsin System to execute energy conservation 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