Bill > AB361

This bill expands and clarifies best value procurement methods for school districts in California, allowing them to select contractors based on more than just the lowest price. Specifically, the bill authorizes school districts (except the Los Angeles Unified School District) to use a best value procurement method for public projects over $1,000,000 before December 31, 2030. Under this method, districts can evaluate bidders using multiple criteria including financial condition, relevant experience, management competency, labor compliance, and safety record. The bill requires districts using this method to establish clear, fair evaluation procedures and publish guidelines for bidder qualification. Districts must also submit a comprehensive report to the Legislature by January 1, 2030, detailing projects awarded, contract amounts, contractors, evaluation criteria, and project performance. The bill defines key terms like "best value" as a procurement process that selects bidders based on the best combination of price and qualifications. For the Los Angeles Unified School District, the bill removes previous reporting requirements and extends their existing best value procurement authorization indefinitely. The provisions are set to be repealed on January 1, 2031, unless further legislative action is taken.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB361