Bill > HB19

This bill modifies Mississippi's existing public purchasing and bidding laws, specifically focusing on the reverse auction process for government agencies and local governing authorities. The key changes require that if an agency or governing authority determines a reverse auction is not in their best interest, they must obtain approval from specific oversight bodies. For agencies, the Public Procurement Review Board must approve an alternative bidding method, while for governing authorities, their own governing board must provide approval. Both types of entities must submit a detailed explanation documenting why a reverse auction would not serve their interests. The bill maintains the existing requirement that reverse auctions are the primary method of receiving bids for purchases over $75,000, but provides a more structured process for agencies and governing authorities to deviate from this requirement. The bill also continues to exclude certain types of contracts from the reverse auction requirement, such as public construction projects. The changes aim to provide more transparency and accountability in the government purchasing process while maintaining flexibility for different types of governmental entities. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Government Affairs, Labor and Employment

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0019.xml