SS/SB 409 - This is one of several acts which are intended to implement the recommendations of the Commission on Management and Productivity, appointed by the Governor in 1994 to recommend ways to improve the operation of Missouri state government.

The act revises provisions of law governing services, primarily purchasing services, provided by the Office of Administration.

The act requires competitive bidding on most purchases in excess of $5,000 and provides special notice requirements for purchases in excess of $25,000. Under current law, bids are required for purchases of $1,000 or more and special notice provisions are applicable for purchases of over $10,000.

The Commissioner of Administration may obtain supplies by competitive proposals. The request for competitive proposals shall contain the criteria which will be used to evaluate proposals, the contents of proposals shall not be revealed to other offerors, and the Commissioner may negotiate with offerors.

When there is only one economically feasible source, the Commissioner may adopt methods of advertisement which are appropriate.

The Commissioner may waive competitive bidding in emergency situations and may enter into cooperative purchasing agreements and purchase contracts with other governmental entities. The Commissioner may delegate purchasing authority to those state departments willing to make their own purchases in compliance with Chapter 34, RSMo.

Any low bidder shall have standing to challenge bid awards made under Chapter 34, RSMo.

The Missouri Minority Business Advocacy Commission shall recommend legislation which will increase procurement from minority business and the Office of Administration shall promulgate rules for certification of women's and minority business enterprises.

The Commissioner is authorized to consolidate printing services provided by the various state departments.

The act repeals outmoded statutes, eliminates a 10% preference for recycled products and amends Chapter 610, RSMo, (Sunshine Law) to ensure that sealed bids are closed records until the contract is executed or all proposals rejected.

See Truly Agreed To SCS/HS/HCS/HB 562.
DAVID VALENTINE