Bill > HB1297

This bill modifies Hawaii's procurement laws by making several key changes to bid protest procedures. First, it clarifies the timeline for submitting protests, requiring that protests be filed within five working days after a person knows or should know about the facts giving rise to the protest, and mandating that protests about solicitation content must be submitted at least 24 hours before the offer receipt deadline. The bill also establishes a 75-calendar-day time limit for the chief procurement officer to issue a written decision on protests for contracts awarded through competitive sealed bids or proposals, with the possibility of a 45-day extension if justified by extenuating circumstances. Additionally, the bill introduces a cap on protest bonds, limiting them to one percent of the contract's estimated value, with a maximum of $1,500,000. The bond may be forfeited if the administrative hearing finds the appeal to be frivolous or made in bad faith. These changes aim to streamline the procurement protest process, provide clearer guidelines for bidders, and prevent potentially excessive or unnecessary protest actions.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=1297&year=2025