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, allowing construction projects to proceed without prior enumeration as long as at least 50% of the design phase is completed. The bill also mandates the Department of Administration to submit quarterly reports to the Joint Committee on Finance detailing budget increases for 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 stipulates that state contracts must clarify the responsibilities for utility service connection charges and consumption costs. Lastly, the bill includes a transfer of $32,000,000 from the general fund to the building trust fund for fiscal year 2024-25, aiming to enhance the efficiency and accountability of state construction projects.
Statutes affected: Bill Text: 13.48(4), 13.48, 16.867(2), 16.867, 20.924(1)(a), 20.924