This bill amends sections 5A-3-4 and 5A-3-12 of the Code of West Virginia to terminate the authority of the Director of the Purchasing Division to impose an annual fee on vendors. Specifically, it removes the requirement for vendors to pay an annual fee in order to receive notice of bid solicitations for commodities and services. The bill states that the authority to charge such a fee is terminated upon the effective date of the amendments enacted in 2025. Additionally, it clarifies that the director must provide notice to vendors without the imposition of this fee.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the prequalification disclosure requirements for vendors by eliminating the stipulation that vendors must have paid the annual fee to have their bids accepted. Instead, it focuses on the necessity for vendors to file a certificate disclosing relevant information about their business. The bill maintains the requirement for vendors to report any changes in their submitted information and establishes penalties for submitting false certificates. Overall, the changes aim to streamline the purchasing process and reduce financial barriers for vendors seeking to participate in state contracts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5A-3-4, 5A-3-12
Engrossed Version: 5A-3-4, 5A-3-12