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.