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

SB 538 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. SB 538 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. 

SB 538 was amended on the floor of the House and minor amendment. This amendment takes sections out of the bill, but does not change our vote recommendation for the bill. We have amended the bill analysis to reflect this amendment. 

Vote Recommendation Notes

SB 538 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 SB 538 on the principle of limited government.