IL SB3981

Creates the Public University Procurement Code as a new, separate procurement framework specifically for Illinois public universities, effective July 1, 2026.

Establishes competitive bidding and economical procurement practices as mandatory principles for all university purchases and contracts, regardless of funding source including federal funds.

Exempts numerous categories from procurement requirements, including: memberships in professional organizations, library materials, sponsored research expenditures, medical supplies for teaching facilities, electric vehicles, textbooks, social media advertising, and express shipping services.

Requires contracts exceeding the applicable bid threshold to be published in the Higher Education Procurement Bulletin within 14 calendar days of execution, with monthly reports to the chief procurement officer.

Mandates the chief procurement officer submit annual reports to the Governor and General Assembly by November 1 summarizing procurement activities and contract exemptions used.