Virginia Senate Bill SB1176

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/23
• Refer: 1/10/23

Caption

Virginia Public Procurement Act; preference for products made or manufactured in Virginia.

Impact

The legislative changes brought about by SB1176 aim to reinforce the use of local and American-made products in state contracts. By allowing a price decrease during bid evaluations for local businesses and establishing specific conditions for tie bids, the bill promotes economic growth within Virginia. This adjustment in procurement preferences connects with broader state goals to bolster local industries, ensure job creation, and encourage the manufacturing sector, all while aligning with recycling initiatives and sustainability practices.

Summary

SB1176 amends the Virginia Public Procurement Act by enhancing the preferences for products made or manufactured in Virginia and the United States. The bill establishes mechanisms to favor local businesses and products, particularly in situations where multiple bids are received. It is designed to strengthen the local economy by ensuring that bid evaluations give consideration to Virginia-based goods and services over those from out-of-state vendors. This is achieved by applying price adjustments favoring Virginia products and ensuring Virginia bidders are prioritized when competitive bidding occurs.

Contention

While SB1176 has garnered support from various stakeholders, its implementation also raises questions about fairness and competitiveness in the bidding process. Opponents argue that these preferences may lead to increased costs for taxpayers if local products are not as competitively priced as those from outside the state. Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding the balance between supporting local businesses and ensuring that state procurement processes remain open to competition from all qualified bidders. The bill's provisions relating to recycled materials also could spark debate on how effectively they are integrated into procurement practices.