CT SB00182

Allows chief executive officers of public higher education institutions to purchase equipment, supplies, and contractual services without approval from the Comptroller, Secretary of Policy and Management, or Commissioner of Administrative Services, provided they consult with the commissioner and follow board-adopted policies.

Requires purchases over $50,000 to be based on competitive bids or proposals solicited by public notice posted on the Internet at least five days before the submission deadline; purchases of $50,000 or less must be based on at least three competitive quotations when possible.

Exempts minor purchases of $10,000 or less, emergency purchases, and agricultural purchases of $50,000 or less from competitive bidding requirements; requires preference for in-state agricultural products when comparable in cost.

Permits chief executive officers to participate in cooperative purchasing plans with federal agencies, other states, political subdivisions, or nonprofit organizations, and to purchase from vendors holding contracts with other government entities or purchasing consortiums.

Makes chief executive officers personally liable for costs of contracts that fail to meet statutory requirements, with such contracts rendered void and unenforceable.