Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB47

Introduced
1/18/23  

Caption

In source selection and contract formation, further providing for debarment or suspension.

Impact

The implications of SB47 are significant for state law as it seeks to standardize and potentially streamline the debarment and suspension processes across various state agencies. By laying down explicit criteria for debarment, the bill aims to remove ambiguity that may currently exist in how contractors are evaluated and held accountable. This could lead to more consistent enforcement of contract eligibility and might improve overall accountability among contractors working with the state government.

Summary

SB47 aims to amend the regulations regarding source selection and contract formation within state contracting processes. The primary focus of the bill is on the criteria and procedures related to the debarment and suspension of contractors. This legislation emphasizes the importance of ensuring that only qualified contractors are allowed to participate in state contracts, with the intent to enhance the integrity and reliability of the procurement process. The bill seeks to provide clearer guidelines on how contractors can be debarred or suspended for misconduct or failure to meet appropriate standards.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB47 appears to be cautiously optimistic among its proponents, who view the bill as a necessary step towards a more transparent and accountable procurement process. Supporters argue that enhancing regulations on contractor qualifications will foster integrity in state contracting, ultimately benefiting public projects and expenditures. However, there are concerns among some stakeholders about the potential for overreach or too stringent conditions that may inadvertently limit qualified bidders, thereby reducing competition.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB47 include debates on the balance between accountability and accessibility for contractors. Some advocates worry that strict debarment criteria could exclude small or minority-owned businesses from participating in state contracts due to past issues that do not reflect current capabilities. There’s also concern about the administrative burden that enhanced debarment procedures could place on state agencies, potentially leading to delays in contract awards and project implementations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1412

In source selection and contract formation, further providing for debarment or suspension.

PA SB871

In source selection and contract formation, further providing for debarment or suspension.

PA HB865

In source selection and contract formation, further providing for debarment or suspension.

PA HB943

In source selection and contract formation, further providing for debarment or suspension.

PA SB305

In source selection and contract formation, further providing for debarment or suspension.

PA SB486

In source selection and contract formation, further providing for debarment or suspension.

PA HB717

In source selection and contract formation, further providing for debarment or suspension.

PA HB1199

In source selection and contract formation, further providing for debarment or suspension and for prequalification of bidders and offerors.

PA HB1327

In source selection and contract formation, further providing for definitions and for methods of source selection and providing for design build best value process and establishing the Design Build Advisory Committee.

PA HB2485

In source selection and contract formation, further providing for supplies manufactured and services performed by persons with disabilities.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.