SB996 Summary

• Increases contractor licensing threshold from $20,000 to $50,000 for construction work in Arkansas, affecting when contractor licensing requirements apply

• Requires bidders and offerors to submit signed statements certifying they have not been disqualified from state contracts due to criminal offenses, and mandates disclosure of subcontractors within 5 business days of selection

• Establishes civil penalties up to $1,000 per violation for breaching procurement laws, with enforcement through Pulaski County Circuit Court and appeals through Arkansas Administrative Procedure Act

• Extends cooling-off periods for former state employees from one year to two years before engaging in procurement activities or selling to the state, with increased restrictions on representing private parties in matters they previously handled

• Creates monthly reporting requirements to the Legislative Council for sole source contracts and multi-contract projects exceeding $100,000, including contractor names, contract amounts, terms, and procurement methods