Bill: HB 1050, 83(R) - 2013

Bill Caption

Relating to construction-related contracts by governmental entities.

Fiscal Notes

No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated. The Texas Association of Counties reported that the bill would increase costs for counties using the design-build method. However, anticipated costs could not be determined. The Harris County Purchasing Department reported that it anticipates costs due to the bill but costs could not be determined. The Texas Municipal League reported that no significant fiscal impact to cities is anticipated. Texas Education Agency (TEA) reported that there would be costs to schools to get certification from a design professional for purchases of $50,000 or more through a co-op.

Bill Analysis

Summary: HB 1050 would modify construction rules in response to HB 618 that was passed last session. HB 1050 would change the ability of government entities to purchase construction items within a purchasing cooperative that exceeds $50,000 by requiring certifications. The legislation would also change design-build requirements, prohibit bid shopping after a government entity has made a selection, adapt change orders to make it easier to move forward with making a change without needing approval, and removes duplicative language.

Analysis: HB 1050 would function as a clean-up bill that seeks to make the construction process more efficient and potentially less costly in the future. Because the legislation would neither offend nor directly support our liberty principles, we stand neutral on HB 1050.

Source URL (retrieved on 04/18/2024 09:04 PM): http://reports.texasaction.com/bill/83r/hb1050?print_view=true