MS SB2723

Amends Section 35-1-21 of Mississippi Code to authorize the State Veterans Affairs Board to contract with nongovernmental entities or the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to operate and provide services to state veterans homes.

Allows the board to select vendors based on factors including cost, program suitability, management plan, quality of care, key personnel, financial condition, and corporate experience, rather than requiring selection of the lowest cost proposal.

Requires the board to enter reasons for contract awards in its official minutes and exempts these contracting decisions from Public Procurement Review Board rules and regulations.

Permits the board to purchase services, commodities, supplies, and equipment directly from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or through federal sharing agreements when advantageous to veterans and the state.

Takes effect July 1, 2019.