California 2023-2024 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB1957

Introduced
1/29/24  
Introduced
1/29/24  
Refer
2/12/24  
Report Pass
4/8/24  
Report Pass
4/8/24  
Refer
4/9/24  
Refer
4/9/24  
Report Pass
4/18/24  
Report Pass
4/18/24  
Refer
4/18/24  
Refer
4/18/24  
Report Pass
5/1/24  
Report Pass
5/1/24  
Engrossed
5/9/24  
Engrossed
5/9/24  
Refer
5/9/24  
Refer
5/9/24  
Refer
5/22/24  
Refer
5/22/24  
Report Pass
5/29/24  
Report Pass
5/29/24  
Refer
5/29/24  
Refer
5/29/24  
Enrolled
6/13/24  
Enrolled
6/13/24  
Chaptered
7/2/24  
Passed
7/2/24  

Caption

Public contracts: best value construction contracting for counties.

Impact

The bill extends the operation of this best value construction program until January 1, 2030, facilitating cost-effective and quality-driven approaches to public construction contracts. Additionally, it requires participating counties to report to legislative committees on the projects awarded under this procurement method. By enabling all counties to utilize this program, the legislation aims to standardize and improve contractor selection processes across the state, which could lead to better project outcomes and accountability.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1957, introduced by Wilson, amends the Public Contract Code to create a 'best value' procurement program for county construction projects exceeding one million dollars. Previously, this program was limited to certain counties such as Alameda and Los Angeles, but the new bill expands its applicability to all counties within California. It allows counties to select bidders based on a comprehensive evaluation of both price and the qualifications of the contractor, thereby aiming to enhance the quality and efficiency of construction projects initiated by local governments.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding AB 1957 is mostly positive, particularly among county officials who see it as an opportunity to enhance local governance and project efficiency. However, there are some concerns regarding the potential for increased bureaucratic complexity in contractor evaluations and the pressure it may place on smaller businesses to meet best value criteria. The inclusion of all counties in this program is seen as a significant benefit to promote uniformity in public contracting processes across California.

Contention

One point of contention remains with respect to the implementation and management of 'best value' assessments, as the criteria for evaluation must be carefully defined to ensure fairness and transparency. The bill expands the definition of perjury as it relates to contractor bid verification, creating implications for both contractors and county officials involved in the bidding process. This addition is viewed by some as a necessary measure to maintain integrity in procurement practices.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA SB128

Public contracts: Best Value Construction Contracting for Counties Pilot Program.

CA SB793

Competitive bidding: design-build and best value construction contracting.

CA AB1424

University of California: Best Value Construction Contracting Program.

CA AB846

Local Agency Public Construction Act: job order contracting.

CA SB146

Public resources: infrastructure: contracting.

CA AB3005

Leroy Anderson Dam and Reservoir: permitting, environmental review, and public contracting.

CA AB618

Local Agency Public Construction Act: job order contracting: school districts: community college districts.

CA HB1108

Virginia Public Procurement Act; construction management and design-build contracting.

CA SB18

Virginia Public Procurement Act; construction management and design-build contracting.

CA SB304

Monterey-Salinas Transit District: public contracting.

Similar Bills

CA SB128

Public contracts: Best Value Construction Contracting for Counties Pilot Program.

CA SB793

Competitive bidding: design-build and best value construction contracting.

CA SB1295

Oil and gas: hazardous or deserted wells and facilities: labor standards: expenditure limits: reports.

CA AB805

County of San Diego: transportation agencies.

CA AB356

Los Angeles Community College District: best value procurement: pilot program.

CA SB419

Californians for All College Service Program.

CA AB1424

University of California: Best Value Construction Contracting Program.