AR SB449

Allows the director, head of a procurement agency, or their designee to settle and resolve contract solicitation or award protests before issuing an administrative determination, with settlement meetings not being public but final resolutions subject to public disclosure.

Establishes that the Arkansas State Claims Commission has exclusive jurisdiction over all claims against the state related to contract solicitations or awards.

Requires that protests not settled by mutual agreement receive a written administrative protest determination that states the reasons for action taken, issued after reasonable notice and opportunity for the protestor to respond.

Clarifies that administrative protest determinations are final and conclusive but are not orders subject to the Arkansas Administrative Procedure Act.