AR HB1180

Changes the definition of "cooperative procurement" to "cooperative purchasing agreement" in Arkansas Code § 19-11-206(1) to clarify agreements between multiple public procurement units or with external procurement activities.

Establishes mandatory state contracts that the State Procurement Director may award for commodities, technical and general services, and professional and consultant services when substantial savings can be achieved through combined purchasing power of state agencies.

Requires state agencies to use mandatory state contracts unless the director approves an exemption in writing, which can only be granted if the agency demonstrates substantial savings will likely result from purchasing outside the contract.

Directs the State Procurement Director to identify contract opportunities, conduct procurements, invite agency participation, post notice on the Office of State Procurement website, and promote mandatory state contract use among county and city governments.

Changes cooperative purchasing agreement reporting requirements from quarterly to annual reports for agencies without procurement officials, and requires reports to include contractor name, procuring agency, contact information, total contract cost with extensions, and goods or services description.