Debate over mandating qualifications‑based selection for local governments dominates subcommittee hearing

Representative Reeves presented House Bill 152 to the subcommittee as a mandate to require cities and counties to use qualifications‑based selection (QBS) when procuring architecture, engineering and other specified professional services. Reeves said the bill would extend procurement rules that states and many federal agencies already use and emphasized local discretion over qualifications.

‘‘This is a bill about the city and the county level,’’ Representative Reeves said, adding the proposal mirrors the federal Brooks Act and the state’s existing practice for state agencies. He told the committee the bill exempts certain professional services from traditional bidding requirements and would require local governments to use QBS for designated procurements, with an effective date in 2026 to allow time for transition.

The hearing drew sustained, divided testimony. Supporters — including…