Subcommittee approves cooperative procurement change to speed roofing repairs

The Procurement and Open Government Subcommittee reported HB/SB 326 to Appropriations after a brief hearing in which sponsors said permitting cooperative procurement for roofing maintenance will speed repairs to limit water infiltration damage.

Senator McPike, who introduced the Senate version, said the measure narrows cooperative procurement to maintenance, repair and limited restoration of existing roofs. "Damage occurs because of water infiltration. And so, the speed of implementation of repairs is something that actually saves entities money," he said, noting the bill differs from earlier House language by focusing on maintenance rather than full re-roofing.

Melissa Aselon, with the 51 Group speaking on behalf of Tremco, testified in support. "We are supportive of the bill and we thank both Delegate Carr in the House, as well as Senator McPike for carrying these bills," she said, adding stakeholders and some school divisions told the company that quicker procurement paths are critical to address roofing infrastructure needs.

Heather Greenwell, executive director of the Virginia Association of Roofing Professionals, urged caution and asked the subcommittee to oppose the bill or send it to a work group. "Our association opposes the use of cooperative procurement for roofing services and products," she said and noted submitted written comments outlining concerns.

After the public testimony and a short sponsor response emphasizing repair speed and cost avoidance, Delegate Carr moved to report the bill and refer it to Appropriations. The motion carried on a roll call vote of 9–0.

The bill will be considered next by the Appropriations Committee. The subcommittee made no changes to the bill text on the record during the hearing.