New Jersey Assembly Bill A1716

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24
• Chaptered: 1/9/24
• Passed: 1/9/24

Caption

Increases public bidding threshold for certain public research universities.

Impact

Currently, the bidding thresholds are considerably lower: $17,700 for NJIT, $30,700 for Rowan University, and $33,000 for both Montclair State University and Kean University. By increasing these thresholds, the bill aims to provide public research universities greater flexibility in contract procurement without the need for a full public bidding process, allowing for more efficient management of university contracts and potentially faster project execution.

Summary

Assembly Bill A1716 proposes to increase the public bidding threshold for certain public research universities in New Jersey. Specifically, the bill seeks to raise the threshold to $100,000 for contracts not subject to the New Jersey Prevailing Wage Act for Rowan University, Montclair State University, Kean University, and the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). This change is aligned with adjustments made under the State College Contracts Law as modified by P.L.2021, c.417, intending to streamline contracting processes for these institutions.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention may arise regarding the implications of raising the threshold, particularly concerning labor rights and wage standards. Opponents may argue that increasing the bidding threshold could lead to a decrease in wage standards for workers employed under these contracts, especially those not governed by the Prevailing Wage Act. This opposition could come from labor unions and advocates for workers' rights, who may express concerns about the potential for reduced oversight and accountability in contracting practices.