SB213 Alabama 2022 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Rodger SmithermanSenator

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2022

Title

Public contracts, competitive bids, exceptions to requirement further provided, Sec. 41-16-51 am'd.

Summary

SB213 would explicitly exempt the purchase of computer hardware, computer programs, software applications, and automotive parts from Alabama's public contract competitive bidding requirements.

What This Bill Does

It amends Section 41-16-51 to add these items to the list of bidding exemptions. Public entities could buy these items without competitive bidding, potentially speeding up procurement. It retains existing exemptions and continues to impose penalties for violations, with void contracts and Class C felony penalties for violators, and it takes effect on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

Who It Affects

• Public entities in Alabama (state, counties, municipalities) that purchase computer hardware, computer programs, software applications, and automotive parts, by potentially bypassing competitive bidding.
• Vendors and suppliers of computer hardware, computer programs/software, and automotive parts, who may see changes in bidding opportunities due to the new exemptions.

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 41-16-51 to exempt purchases of computer hardware, computer programs, software applications, and automotive parts from competitive bidding requirements.
• Exemption applies to these items in public contracts, alongside existing exemptions, allowing direct purchases without bids when acquiring them.
• Contracts entered into in violation of the bidding exemptions remain void and violators can be charged with a Class C felony.
• The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Public Contracts