NY A01105

Allows political subdivisions to award service contracts based on "best value" as defined in State Finance Law section 163, subject to approval by the governing body and compliance with State Procurement Council guidelines.

Permits political subdivisions to purchase information technology and telecommunications hardware, software, and professional services through Federal General Services Administration Schedule 70 contracts, with adherence to federal ordering procedures satisfying competitive bidding requirements.

Enables political subdivisions to purchase materials, equipment, and supplies through contracts let by other states or political subdivisions if those contracts followed competitive bidding requirements consistent with this section and were intended for use by other governmental entities.

Requires the governing board of a purchasing political subdivision to review documentation, obtain legal counsel as needed, and certify by resolution that shared purchasing meets the subdivision's procurement policies before making such purchases.

Maintains that shared purchasing authority does not relieve political subdivisions from complying with applicable minority and women-owned business enterprise program mandates.