Bill > HB875

This bill revises the requirements for awarding public works contracts in Montana by modifying existing state law. The bill maintains the general principle that public contracts for construction, repair, and public works should be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, but introduces new conditions that can disqualify a lowest bidder from receiving a contract. Specifically, a resident bidder may be denied preference if they have a history of poor contract performance, such as not completing a prior contract, requesting more than two contract extensions, or failing to perform warranty work. If these situations occur, the contract can be canceled and potentially awarded to the second lowest bidder. The bill preserves the existing reciprocity provisions that allow resident bidders to receive preference against nonresident bidders from states or countries that enforce similar residency preferences. Additionally, the bill includes a $500 appropriation to the department of administration to update educational materials explaining these new contract award requirements. This legislation aims to ensure more accountability and performance standards in public works contracting while maintaining support for local businesses.

Business and Industry

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC4175