SB386 Alabama 2014 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Del Marsh

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2014

Title

Contracts, payment of state contractors, state may not increase time for payment beyond 30 days, time frame to hold pre-bid meetings specified, review of invoices in specified time frame required, alteration of contract allowed under certain circumstances, Sec. 39-2-2, 39-2-12 am'd.

Summary

SB386 reforms Alabama public works contracts by mandating pre-bid meetings, restricting last-minute spec changes, speeding up payments, and adding progress-review and contract-adjustment provisions.

What This Bill Does

Requires pre-bid meetings to be held at least seven days before bid openings on public works contracts and bans modifying specifications within 24 hours of bid opening. Reduces the maximum time allowed for payments to contractors to 35 days after the pay authorization is signed, removing the rule that payments wait for funds. Establishes a process to review completed work, handle disputes over invoices, and allows contract terms to be altered if material changes in property conditions are discovered.

Who It Affects

• Awarding authorities (state, county, and municipal agencies) that run public works projects, who must hold pre-bid meetings, manage faster payments, and implement dispute and adjustment processes.
• Contractors and subcontractors working on public works projects, who would face a shorter payment window, new progress reviews and invoice dispute procedures, and potential contract adjustments when site conditions change.

Key Provisions

• Pre-bid meetings must be held at least seven days before bid opening on public works contracts.
• Specifications may not be modified within 24 hours of bid opening.
• Payment to contractors for completed work must be made within 35 days after the pay authorization is signed, and the prompt payment requirement applies regardless of fund receipt.
• Provides for review and approval of progress on completed work, and establishes dispute procedures for invoices; allows alteration of contract terms if material changes in property conditions are discovered.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

State Agencies