SRC-JJJ H.B. 2122 76(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   H.B. 2122
76R5680 MXM-FBy: Kuempel (Wentworth)
Intergovernmental Relations
4/21/1999
Engrossed


DIGEST 

Currently, counties with populations greater than 125,000 require
competitive bids on expenditures of more than $25,000 that deal with
emergency services districts, providing exceptions for emergency services.
However, counties with a population of less than 125,000 must solicit bids
on expenditures of more than $15,000, without exceptions for emergency
services.  H.B. 2122 would establish competitive bid requirements for
certain emergency services districts. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, H.B. 2122 establishes competitive bid requirements for certain
emergency districts. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Section 776.074, Health and Safety Code, as follows:

Sec. 776.074.  New heading: COMPETITIVE BIDS. Requires the board of
emergency commissioners (board) to submit to competitive bids an
expenditure of more than $25,000, rather than $15,00, for certain services,
with exceptions.  Requires the board to request bids on items to be
purchased or leased or services to be performed.  Requires the board to
notify certain entities with written notice by mail of the intended
purchase.  Requires the advertisement, if the board decides to advertise
for bids, to be published in accordance with Section 262.025(a), Local
Government Code.  Sets forth conditions for written notification to
bidders.  Sets forth requirements for the advertisement or notice for
competitive bidding. Prohibits the board from preparing restrictive bid
specifications.  Provides that this section applies to an expenditure of
district tax revenues by any party or entity for the purchase of services,
vehicles, equipment, or goods.  Provides that Subsection (i) does not
prohibit the board from soliciting competitive bids for any item, service,
or contract listed in that section. Requires a contract for a public works
project to be administered in accordance with Chapter 271B, Local
Government Code, except as provided by this section.  Deletes text
regarding purchase or lease; notification of and for bidders; requiring a
contract to be awarded to the lowest bidder; and a volunteer fire
department.  Makes conforming and nonsubstantive changes. 

SECTION 2.  Makes application of this Act prospective.

SECTION 3.  Effective date: September 1, 1999.

SECTION 4.  Emergency clause.