West Virginia 2024 Regular Session

West Virginia Senate Bill SB544

Introduced
1/25/24  
Refer
1/25/24  
Engrossed
2/14/24  
Enrolled
2/27/24  
Passed
3/7/24  

Caption

Raising threshold for bid requirement of municipal public works projects

Impact

If enacted, SB544 is expected to simplify the contracting process for public works projects, potentially leading to cost savings and expedited project timelines. Municipalities would have greater flexibility in managing funds and resources, allowing for more efficient responses to infrastructure needs. The increase in the bidding threshold could also benefit local contractors, allowing them to engage in a wider range of projects without the more burdensome requirements associated with public bidding. However, the bill may raise concerns about transparency and fairness in how public funds are allocated.

Summary

Senate Bill 544 aims to raise the bidding threshold for municipal public works projects in West Virginia from $25,000 to $50,000. This includes municipal public utility projects and extends to projects under the Regional Water and Wastewater and Stormwater Authority Act. The bill specifies that emergency repairs are exempt from the bidding requirements, allowing municipalities to act swiftly in critical situations without the delay of a bidding process. The legislation has been introduced by a group of senators, signaling bipartisan support for revising procurement processes.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB544 appears to be cautiously supportive, primarily among legislators advocating for reduced bureaucratic hurdles. Supporters argue that raising the threshold is a practical solution to streamline operations and address the growing infrastructure demands within local municipalities. Conversely, there are critics who worry that raising the threshold could lead to less competitive bidding, potentially increasing costs or reducing accountability for public funds. The debate highlights the balance between efficiency and oversight in public spending.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns over whether raising the threshold for bidding might erode public oversight and accountability. Some stakeholders worry that increased exemptions for bidding could lead to favoritism or reduce opportunities for smaller contractors who typically compete in the lower bid range. Legislators and community activists have called for amendments to ensure that transparency and fairness are maintained, advocating for provisions that protect local economies and provide checks against potential misuse of funds.

Companion Bills

WV HB5441

Similar To Relating to raising the threshold from $25,000 to $50,000 for the requirement of bids for municipal public works projects.

Previously Filed As

WV HB3134

To raise the bid thresholds for municipal projects from $25,000 to $50,000

WV HCR52

Study the financial effects of raising the threshold from $25,000 to $50,000 for the requirement of bids for municipal, public service district, county and state public works project.

WV HB2864

To require larger municipally owned public water and wastewater utilities to pass rates to meet the same standards as utilities regulated under Chapter 24 of the Code

WV HB3354

To authorize municipalities to combine operations with other municipalities and counties to provide governmental services

WV HB2024

Budget Bill, making appropriations of public money out of the treasury in accordance with section fifty-one, article six of the Constitution

WV HB2804

Reinstate the Contractor Licensing Board under the Division of Labor in Chapter 21

WV SB628

Revising provisions related to public charter schools

WV HB2955

Relating to the establishment and operation of regional water, wastewater and stormwater authorities

WV HB3170

Prohibiting municipalities in their permitting from charging other government entities for rights of way within municipal boundaries that are at least fifteen feet above ground level at their lowest point

WV HB3084

Relating to revising provisions related to public charter schools

Similar Bills

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NJ S3811

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NJ A5019

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NJ A4025

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NJ S4057

Modifies use of cooperative purchasing agreements by certain public contracting units for construction services; prohibits time-and-materials contracts in certain circumstances; allows indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity public contracts in certain circumstances.

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CA AB3186

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CA SB272

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