SB202 Summary

• Expands the exemption from public works bidding requirements to allow any governmental entity (not just local governing bodies) to purchase heating or air conditioning units or systems through a competitive bid process approved by the Department of Examiners of Public Accounts.

• Replaces the previous requirement that only "local governing body" competitive bid processes qualify with broader language allowing "any governmental entity" to use approved competitive bid processes for these purchases.

• Maintains existing conditions for the exemption: the competitive bid process must be approved by the Department of Examiners of Public Accounts, the unit or system must be available as a result of that process, and pricing must be equal to or less than state purchasing program rates.

• Clarifies that the exemption for heating and air conditioning purchases does not exempt public works projects from other requirements including design and review standards, applicable codes and laws, and engineer and architect compensation mandates.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.