Bill > HB117

This bill amends existing law to allow county commissions in Alabama to use procurement or purchasing programs not only for tangible personal property but also for services, provided these programs are designed to achieve significant cost savings or administrative savings for the county. A "procurement or purchasing program" is defined as a payment system used as an alternative to traditional purchase orders, where vendors agree to participate. The bill clarifies that these programs can involve individualized purchases of specific items or services, with designated individuals authorized to make these purchases using a programmed card. Before implementing such a program, county commissions must ensure it meets governmental accounting standards, provides documented cost or administrative savings, includes sufficient safeguards against mismanagement, and is overseen by the chief administrative officer or their designee. The bill also mandates written policies and procedures for program implementation, including monetary limits on individual and monthly purchases, training for card users, oversight and record-keeping by the chief administrative officer, monthly review of card bills for unauthorized charges, and timely settlement of all purchases within 45 days. Companies providing these services must suspend a county's purchasing authority if payments are not received within the 45-day limit.