Texas Senate Bill SB1054

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the preference given by state agencies to goods offered by bidders in this state or manufactured, produced, or grown in this state or in the United States.

Impact

The alterations introduced by SB1054 reinforce existing state laws that govern procurement processes, specifying a hierarchy of preferences during purchases. These changes are anticipated to create a more favorable environment for local suppliers and enhance the competitive advantage of Texas-based businesses. By prioritizing these in-state options, the bill aligns with broader economic development strategies aimed at supporting local industries and job creation.

Summary

SB1054 aims to revise the preferences given by Texas state agencies when purchasing goods. The bill emphasizes a strong preference for goods produced, manufactured, or grown within Texas or by Texas bidders, particularly prioritizing those owned by service-disabled veterans. This approach seeks to bolster local economies by ensuring that state contracts benefit local businesses and reduce reliance on products sourced from outside the state, especially foreign goods.

Contention

Potential points of contention around SB1054 include concerns regarding the effectiveness of mandated preferences in driving real economic growth and competition. While proponents argue that enhancing local preference will naturally support the economy, critics may question the feasibility and implications of enforcing such preferences. They might assert that focusing solely on local products could inadvertently limit choice and increase costs for state agencies if local options are not competitively priced or of sufficient quality, potentially impacting the quality of goods available for public contracts.