SRC-JBJ S.B. 1672 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 1672 By: Bernsen Infrastructure 4/22/1999 As Filed DIGEST Currently, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) receives bids for contracts that are awarded by the Texas Transportation Commission (commission). TxDOT and the commission must follow procedures outlined in Chapter 223, Transportation Code, awarding the contracts. Some of the language in the code is ambiguous and needs clarification, particularly in reference to bids submitted electronically. PURPOSE As proposed, S.B. 1672 amends certain procedures in awarding a state highway improvement contract. 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 Chapter 223A, Transportation Code, by adding Section 223.0041, as follows: Sec. 223.0041. AWARD OF CONTRACTS. Requires certain bids received by the Texas Department of Transportation to be tabulated and forwarded to the Texas Transportation Commission (commission) who may accept or reject the bids, but must award the contract to the lowest bidder, subject to Section 223.045. SECTION 2. Amends Section 223.005, Transportation Code, to delete procedures for obtaining and rewarding certain bids. Makes conforming changes. SECTION 3. Amends Section 223.013(c), Transportation Code, to provide that certain bids under this subchapter do not need to be opened at a public hearing if the bid is submitted electronically. Deletes reference to Section 223.004(a) and a hearing by the commission in opening the bid. SECTION 4.Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage.