Bill > SB2075

This bill establishes a "Hawaii bidder preference" and a "Hawaii offeror preference" to support local businesses in state procurement processes. A "Hawaii bidder" or "Hawaii offeror" is defined as a business that has maintained a commercial place of business in Hawaii for at least two consecutive years and is authorized to do business in the state. When a qualified Hawaii bidder or offeror submits a timely "Hawaii bidder preference certification" or "Hawaii offeror preference certification" (a sworn statement attesting to eligibility and commitment to maintaining qualification), their bid or proposal price will be considered reduced by five percent for evaluation purposes. This preference has limitations, including a maximum preference amount of $500,000, a cap on the total contract value to which it applies ($10,000,000), and it will not be applied if it conflicts with federal law or if a Hawaii bidder competes against another Hawaii bidder. The contract will still be awarded at the original bid price, not the reduced evaluated price. The bill also clarifies that knowingly making false or misleading statements to obtain or retain these preferences can lead to debarment (being banned from future state contracts). The Procurement Policy Board is authorized to adopt rules to implement these preferences, including standardized forms, verification procedures, and compliance monitoring. This legislation aims to boost the local economy by giving a modest advantage to in-state businesses while maintaining fairness and transparency in public procurement.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2075&year=2026