MO HB1716

Establishes the "Political Subdivision Construction Bidding Standards Act" requiring competitive bidding for construction contracts of $25,000 or more by political subdivisions without existing statutory requirements or established procurement policies

Requires contracts be advertised once weekly for two consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation, with final advertisement at least 10 days before bid deadline, and bids awarded to the lowest and best responsive bidder

Mandates sealed, written bids opened publicly at the advertised date, time, and place with at least two business days' notice if changes are made; prohibits opening bids before the deadline or in unadvertised locations

Allows bidders and denied competitors to file lawsuits seeking injunctive relief and attorney's fees for violations, with expedited resolution within 45 days and a 15-day deadline for contractors to challenge awarded contracts (extended if fraud, collusion, or corruption is alleged)

Exempts equipment procurement with compatibility requirements, separate design/engineering contracts under existing law, design/build projects, and emergency contracts to protect public health and safety