Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
Capital Budget Committee
SB 5844
Brief Description: Concerning work performed by institutions of higher education.
Sponsors: Senators Liias, Holy, Lovick, Nobles and Wilson, C..
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Increases bid limits required for public works projects to go through competitive bid processes at public institutions of higher education.
Hearing Date: 2/24/22
Staff: John Wilson-Tepeli (786-7115).
Background:

Public Works Projects.  
Public entities are generally required to go through a competitive bid process for public works projects estimated to cost over a certain dollar amount.  That amount varies depending on the entity and how many trades may be involved in the project.  The awarded contract must go to the responsible bidder who submits the lowest responsive bid.

 

Bid Limits for Public Institutions of Higher Education.  
The bid limit established for a competitive sealed bid process for a regional university, state university, or community and technical college (CTC) is limited to an amount equal to or more than $90,000 for any building, construction, renovation, remodeling, or demolition, other than maintenance or repairs.  If the work only involves one trade or craft area, the amount may be equal to or more than $45,000.
Summary of Bill:

The bid limits established for public works projects at a regional university, state university, or CTC are increased.  For any building, construction, renovation, remodeling, or demolition, other than maintenance and repairs, the bid limit is increased from $90,000 to $110,000.  For work involving only one trade or craft area, it is increased from $45,000 to $90,000.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.