Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

Hawaii Senate Bill SR195

Introduced
3/10/23  

Caption

Urging The Procurement Policy Board To Amend And Clarify The Administrative Rules Relating To Small Purchases To Allow The Expenditures For Goods, Services, And Construction With An Estimated Total Cost Of Less Than $5,000 To Be Awarded In Any Manner That The Purchasing Agency Deems Practical Or Convenient.

Impact

If passed, SR195 would significantly impact the existing guidelines under the Hawaii Public Procurement Code, established in 1993, which aims to ensure fair competition and fiscal responsibility. By allowing agencies more discretion in sourcing low-cost goods and services, the bill seeks to streamline procurement processes and reduce bureaucratic delays. The anticipated outcome is a more responsive procurement system that can adapt to urgent needs without the constraints of rigid procedures, thereby potentially improving the efficacy of government spending.

Summary

Senate Resolution 195 (SR195) urges the Procurement Policy Board of Hawaii to amend and clarify the administrative rules governing small purchases. The proposal emphasizes the need for flexibility in awarding contracts for goods, services, and construction that cost less than $5,000. Currently, small purchases are subject to specific procedures, but SR195 aims to allow purchasing agencies to determine the most practical or convenient methods for awarding these expenditures. This change is framed within the context of fostering efficiency and accountability in procurement processes.

Contention

However, the proposal does raise questions and concerns among various stakeholders regarding transparency and accountability. Critics may argue that providing agencies with more leeway could lead to less oversight and increase the risks of mishandling public funds. The balance between improving procurement efficiency and maintaining a transparent system is likely to be a focal point of discussion among legislators and public advocacy groups, reflecting broader concerns over governance and fiscal responsibility.

Administrative_details

The resolution requests that the Procurement Policy Board not only amend the rules but also issue interim directives to implement these changes promptly. Furthermore, the board is tasked with regularly auditing the implementations and reporting its findings to the Legislature by a specified deadline. This accountability mechanism aims to ensure the new provisions are monitored effectively, which is crucial for maintaining public trust in the procurement process.

Companion Bills

HI SCR169

Same As Urging The Procurement Policy Board To Amend And Clarify The Administrative Rules Relating To Small Purchases To Allow The Expenditures For Goods, Services, And Construction With An Estimated Total Cost Of Less Than $5,000 To Be Awarded In Any Manner That The Purchasing Agency Deems Practical Or Convenient.

Previously Filed As

HI SB2202

Relating To Small Purchases.

HI SB326

Relating To Procurement.

HI SB1276

Relating To Purchases Of Health And Human Services.

HI SB146

Relating To The Procurement Of Professional Services.

HI HB536

Relating To Procurement.

HI SB3185

Relating To Procurement.

HI HB542

Relating To Procurement.

HI HB2496

Relating To Procurement.

HI HB2567

Relating To The Hawaii Public Procurement Code.

HI SB1342

Relating To Department Of Education Procurement.

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