Missouri House Bill HB2238

Missouri 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/3/24
• Refer: 5/17/24

Caption

Requires publication of a cost estimate and project completion date for any work on the state highway system at the time bidding for a contract on the work first closes

Impact

By mandating the publication of cost estimates and completion dates, HB2238 seeks to improve accountability within public contracting and enhance the competitive bidding process for highway projects. This could potentially lead to more informed decision-making by contractors and stakeholders, ensuring that projects are completed within budget and on schedule. Additionally, the availability of this data could help in monitoring the effectiveness of state funding on highway infrastructure.

Summary

House Bill 2238 introduces a requirement for the Missouri Department of Transportation to publish a cost estimate and project completion date for any construction, maintenance, or repair work on the state highway system. This information must be made available on the department's official public website at the time when bidding for these contracts first closes. The aim of this bill is to enhance transparency and inform the public and potential bidders about the financial expectations and timelines associated with highway projects.

Contention

While the bill aims to foster transparency, there may be concerns raised by various stakeholders regarding the practicality of providing accurate cost estimates prior to the contract award. Some may argue that fluctuating material costs and unforeseen project challenges can make initial estimates misleading. Opponents might also raise questions about the potential administrative burden on the Department of Transportation to maintain up-to-date information on the website, thus impacting its overall operational efficiency.