SB3795 Summary: County Design-Build Authorization Act

• Authorizes Illinois counties to use design-build contracts as an alternative to traditional design-bid-build processes for public construction projects to increase efficiency and effectiveness.

• Requires a two-phase selection procedure: Phase I evaluates design-build entities based on qualifications (experience, financial capability, past performance, personnel qualifications, and diversity compliance), and Phase II evaluates technical and cost proposals from shortlisted entities (2-6 firms).

• Mandates counties issue a 14-day advance notice before requesting proposals and allow at least 21 days (or 28 days for projects exceeding $12 million) for entities to submit Phase I proposals, with minimum 30 days for Phase II submissions.

• Prohibits price consideration in Phase I evaluation and limits total project cost weighting to no more than 30% in Phase II cost evaluation; requires design professionals to develop scope and performance criteria but prohibits them from participating in design-build entity proposals.

• Requires design-build entities to submit plans demonstrating compliance with Business Enterprise for Minorities, Women, and Persons with Disabilities Act utilization goals and Section 2-105 of the Illinois Human Rights Act, with progress reports every 6 months and at final contract closure.