Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB878

Introduced
1/16/23  
Refer
1/16/23  

Caption

Construction certificate of responsibility; increase to $75,000.00 and align bond requirement.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 878 would impact numerous statutes, particularly those imposing requirements on contractors operating in Mississippi. By raising the cost threshold, smaller contractors may benefit from less stringent requirements, which could enhance participation in public and private construction projects. This shift could foster an environment of increased competition and economic opportunity for local contractors, especially in smaller communities or for less costly projects. However, this change could also raise concerns regarding the qualifications of contractors that may now operate without the stringent oversight previously required.

Summary

House Bill 878 aims to amend the Mississippi Code of 1972 concerning the requirements of obtaining a Certificate of Responsibility before submitting bids for construction work. The bill proposes to increase the threshold for contracting from $50,000 to $75,000, thereby eliminating the need for such a certificate for smaller projects. This change is designed to streamline the bidding process for contractors, potentially encouraging more competitive bids for projects within this new threshold. The legislation also specifies how certificates should be submitted in the case of electronic bidding, creating clearer guidelines for contractors.

Contention

There is potential for debate regarding HB 878, especially among stakeholders who prioritize safety and quality in construction projects. Critics may argue that reducing the regulatory framework for smaller projects could lead to an increase in substandard work or safety violations, potentially exposing communities to risks. Supporters of the bill assert that it will reduce barriers for entry for smaller contractors and lead to cost savings and efficiency in project execution. The balancing act between ensuring adequate oversight and promoting local business interests will likely be at the forefront of discussions surrounding this bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS SB2298

Construction bids; amend prequalified construction provisions.

MS HB1165

Counties and municipalities; authorize to choose not to be subject to requirement for permitting as a condition to construction.

MS HB331

Counties and municipalities; authorize to choose not to be subject to requirement for permitting as a condition to construction.

MS HB1073

Counties and municipalities; authorize to choose not to be subject to requirement for permitting as a condition to construction.

MS HB1143

Counties and municipalities; delete requirement for permitting as a condition to construction.

MS SB2830

Public bid requirements for local governing authorities and state agencies; increase minimum expenditure amounts.

MS SB2860

Construction contracts; modify "construction manager at risk" provisions.

MS HB256

Public purchases; increase procurement threshold for public schools and charter schools for competitive bid requirements to $10,000.00.

MS SB2566

Public bid requirements for local governing authorities and state agencies; increase minimum expenditure amounts.

MS HB642

Construction of prefabricated buildings; authorize procurement and construction of at Alcorn State University.

Similar Bills

MS HB1421

Public purchasing; increase threshold for bidding and revise provisions related to reverse auctions.

MS SB2699

Purchasing law; raise expenditure triggering requirements for competitive bids.

MS HB673

Public purchasing; increase threshold for bidding to $15,000.00.

MS HB258

Public purchasing; increase threshold for bidding to $15,000.00.

MS HB118

Public purchasing; increase threshold for bidding by governing authorities to $25,000.00.

MS HB184

Public purchasing; increase threshold for bidding and revise provisions related to reverse auctions.

MS SB2355

Socially and economically disadvantaged small business; establish program to encourage participation in state contracts by.

MS SB2591

Socially and economically disadvantaged small business; establish program to encourage participation in state contracts by.