Texas House Bill HB2873

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the development of a model contract management process for use with low-risk state procurements.

Impact

The bill proposes amendments to the Government Code, specifically Section 2262.051, enhancing the legislative framework governing state contracts. It introduces a new provision (Section 2262.104) that mandates the contract advisory team to identify low-risk procurements and provide a model for their management. This change is expected to reduce the administrative burden on state agencies while ensuring that the state's interests are adequately safeguarded, potentially leading to more efficient public procurement processes.

Summary

House Bill 2873 aims to establish a model contract management process specifically designed for low-risk state procurements. This legislative measure seeks to streamline the contracting process for state agencies by providing a guideline that distinguishes essential provisions required to protect the state's interests from those that are merely recommended. The emphasis on accommodating the unique needs of different state agencies indicates a desire for a flexible yet structured approach to state contracting.

Contention

Although the bill appears to be a step towards improving efficiency in state contracting, there may be concerns regarding how 'low-risk' procurements are defined and what implications this has for oversight and accountability. Stakeholders in the procurement process may debate the effectiveness and sufficiency of the model contract management process proposed, particularly if it limits flexibility for agencies dealing with unique or complex contracts. The oversight mechanisms for these low-risk contracts may also be scrutinized to ensure that they do not compromise the state's fiscal responsibility.