Bill Caption

Relating to information technology purchased through the Department of Information Resources. 

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated. 

Bill Analysis

HB 1380 would enable the Department of Information Resources to expand their cooperative contract offerings and bulk purchases to products and services in demand from two or more agencies, or other eligible customers. The bill would make eligible customers to now include political subdivisions of this state; hospitals, public safety entities, volunteer fire departments, private or independent institutions of higher education, private schools, Lower Colorado River Authority, and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas; and government entities of other states. 

HB 1380 would apply preapproved terms and conditions to which a vendor, the comptroller, and the department agree to be valid only for the duration of the initial contract and would have to include a provision authorizing the department to renegotiate the terms and conditions at any time before the contract expires. 

Vote Recommendation Notes

HB 1380 would expand the ability of the Department of Information Resource to make cooperative contracts and bulk purchase agreements with various agencies within and without the state. This inter and intra state cooperation should help government perform its tasks more effectively and efficiently. Texas Action supports HB 1380 on the principle of limited government.