WV HB2636

Municipalities may give preference to local contractors located within 10 miles of the municipality for construction projects, allowing them to be selected over lower bidders at the municipal council's discretion

Municipal councils gain authority to reject bids and require rebidding if they determine a vendor lacks the capability to fully perform contract requirements or lacks the integrity and reliability to assure good-faith performance

The bill amends the West Virginia Fairness in Competitive Bidding Act, which governs government construction contracts exceeding $25,000

Current law requires awarding contracts to the lowest qualified responsible bidder; this amendment creates an exception for municipalities to prioritize local economic investment