Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Local Government Committee |
HB 1738
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Authorizing political subdivisions to purchase certain technology and services from the United States government.
Sponsors: Representatives Hayes, Sells, Seaquist, Dunshee and Ryu.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/15/13
Staff: Michaela Murdock (786-7289).
Background:
Generally, all purchases of or contracts for goods (i.e., products, materials, supplies, or equipment provided by a contractor) must be based on a competitive solicitation process. Competitive solicitation is a documented formal process providing an equal and open opportunity to bidders and culminating in a selection based on predetermined criteria. Intergovernmental agreements awarded to any governmental entity, whether federal, state, or local and any department, division, or subdivision of that entity, are exempt from competitive solicitation.
Notwithstanding the general requirement of competitive solicitation, political subdivisions of the State may purchase supplies, materials, or equipment from the federal government without calling for bids. The political subdivision must be authorized by ordinance or resolution of its legislative body to do so.
Acquisition of Electronic Data Processing and Telecommunication Systems.
Municipalities, including cities, counties, towns, and various special purpose districts and public agencies, are currently authorized by statute to acquire electronic data processing or telecommunication equipment, software, or services through competitive negotiation rather than through competitive bidding. Competitive negotiation involves: (1) submitting a request for proposals to qualified sources and publishing it in a newspaper of general circulation; (2) evaluating the proposals received; and (3) selecting a qualified bidder whose proposal is most advantageous to the municipality.
Summary of Bill:
In addition to purchases of supplies, materials, and equipment, any political subdivision of the State may purchase electronic data processing and telecommunication equipment, software, and services from the federal government without calling for bids. However, the political subdivision must be authorized by ordinance or resolution of its legislative body to make such purchases.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.