IA HF2399

Amends Iowa Code Section 26.9 to allow public improvement contracts to be awarded to local contractors whose bids are up to 10% higher than the lowest responsive, responsible bid, when that lowest bid comes from a contractor headquartered more than 50 miles from the project location.

Defines "local contractor" as a contractor whose business headquarters is located within 50 miles of the public improvement project site.

Maintains the existing requirement that contracts generally must go to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder, with the local preference serving as an optional exception.

Preserves existing exceptions for city public utility contracts (under Iowa Code sections 384.80-384.94), which may be awarded as the city deems in its best interests.