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Committee advances bill to modernize Louisiana procurement code, raises thresholds and adds protest bond requirement
Summary
Senate Bill 151 was reported favorably after sponsors told the committee it would modernize procurement by raising thresholds, expanding procurement methods and adding a protest bond requirement to limit automatic stays during challenges.
Senate Bill 151, described by its sponsor as a rewrite to modernize the state procurement code, was reported favorably by the House Appropriations Committee on May 20.
The measure would raise certain procurement thresholds—among them increasing the consulting services competitive‑bid threshold from $75,000 to $150,000—and allow additional methods such as invitations to negotiate, cooperative purchasing and statewide consulting contracts. Sponsors told the committee the $150,000 consulting threshold was last adjusted in 1978 and that the change would address time‑consuming procurement processes.
The bill also proposes a protest bond requirement so that an award can proceed unless a bond is posted, which sponsors said would reduce automatic stays and restore some negotiating leverage to the state. Other language in testimony would allow the executive branch some flexibility over small purchase thresholds by rulemaking.
Deputy Commissioner Patrick Goldsmith of the Division of Administration told the committee working groups composed of agencies and vendors had recommended the changes. He said the bill aims to preserve transparency and accountability while shortening procurement timelines.
The committee heard support from the Police Jury Association and the Baton Rouge Area Chamber. Representative Marcell (motion) moved the measure favorably and, seeing no objection, the committee reported the bill favorable.
If enacted, the measure would change statutory procurement thresholds and delegate implementation details and some rulemaking to the Division of Administration and affected agencies.
