Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1561

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the applicability of the job order contracting procurement method to certain buildings and structures.

Impact

If enacted, SB1561 will primarily affect state laws regarding procurement methods related to construction and infrastructure projects. The bill stipulates that the job order contracting method will only apply to buildings governed by accepted building codes, excluding civil engineering constructions from its provisions. This could lead to enhanced consistency in the application of procurement methods across different types of construction projects while providing guidelines that will benefit both contractors and governmental agencies in Texas.

Summary

Senate Bill 1561 aims to modify the applicability of the job order contracting procurement method to certain buildings and structures within the state of Texas. The bill seeks to clarify the circumstances under which this procurement method can be utilized, particularly distinguishing between buildings and other civil engineering projects such as highways or bridges. By delineating these parameters, the bill intends to streamline procurement processes and potentially enhance efficiency in the construction of state facilities.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding SB1561 suggest a generally supportive sentiment among legislators regarding the bill's intent to refine contracting methods. Proponents highlight the bill's potential to simplify procurement processes, thereby promoting greater efficiency and coherence in construction practices. However, some concerns were raised regarding the potential limitations the bill might impose on the applicability of these procurement methods for certain types of projects, leading to calls for careful consideration of its implications in the broader regulatory context.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the clarification of what constitutes a 'building' versus civil engineering projects, as some stakeholders expressed concerns that the bill might inadvertently exclude certain necessary constructions from the job order contracting method. The bill's exclusions could complicate procurement for specific projects, raising worries among contractors and local governments over the effective management of construction initiatives. This highlights the broader debate on the balance between efficient procurement and adequate regulatory oversight in Texas.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

  • Chapter 2269. Contracting And Delivery Procedures For Construction Projects
    • Section: 402

Occupations Code

  • Chapter 1001. Texas Board Of Professional Engineers And Land Surveyors
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 1051. Texas Board Of Architectural Examiners; General Provisions Affecting Architects, Landscape Architects, And Interior Designers; Provisions Affecting Only Architects
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.