House Bill 197 Summary

• Amends Mississippi Code Section 31-7-13 to require reverse auctions as the primary bidding method for purchases exceeding $75,000, with separate approval processes for state agencies versus governing authorities.

• State agencies must obtain approval from the Public Procurement Review Board if determining a reverse auction is not in the agency's best interest, and must submit a detailed explanation and alternative process.

• Governing authorities must obtain approval from their governing board if determining a reverse auction is not in the authority's best interest, and must document findings in board minutes.

• Excludes reverse auction requirements from public construction projects (design, construction, improvement, repair or remodeling of public facilities) and certain educational purchases by public schools.

• Takes effect July 1, 2024.