SRC-PNG H.B. 3543 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 3543 76R11906 WP-DBy: Hodge (Cain) Intergovernmental Relations 5/10/1999 Engrossed DIGEST Currently, under Texas law, certain mass transit authorities are authorized to negotiate a contract without competitive sealed bids or proposals if the amount involved in the contract is $15,000 or less. Some transit authorities have expressed an interest in saving money on the administrative costs involved with sealed bids or proposals by raising the maximum dollar amount of a contract that may be negotiated without sealed bids. In addition, purchasing without sealed bids or proposals may simplify the administrative process. This bill would increase from $15,000 to $25,000 the maximum aggregate amount for contracts authorized to be negotiated without competitive sealed bids or proposals. PURPOSE As proposed, H.B. 3543 increases from $15,000 to $25,000 the maximum aggregate amount for contracts authorized to be negotiated without competitive sealed bids or proposals by mass transit authorities. 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 452.107(c), Transportation Code, to increase from $15,000 to $25,000 the maximum aggregate amount for contracts authorized to be negotiated without competitive sealed bids or proposals under this section. SECTION 2.Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage.