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SB 935

Local agency design-build projects: authorization.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Marie Alvarado-Gil and 5 co-sponsors

SB 935 lets California local agencies use design-build for public works, aiming to speed delivery and streamline design and construction under defined procurement rules.

In Senate. Ordered to engrossing and enrolling.
#localagencydesign-buildprojects #authorization
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Bill Summary · SB 935

Summary of SB 935 (Session 2025-2026) – Local agency design-build projects: authorization

Purpose and intent

  • SB 935 authorizes local California government agencies to use design-build procurement for public works projects under specified conditions. Design-build is a project delivery method where design and construction services are contracted with a single entity, potentially speeding up project delivery and offering integrated oversight.

Key provisions and changes

  • Authorization for Local Agencies: The bill expands or clarifies the authority of local agencies (e.g., cities, counties, special districts) to pursue design-build contracts for public works projects.
  • Procurement Framework: Establishes or codifies the process by which local agencies can select a design-build contractor, including solicitation, evaluation, and contract award standards. This may align with or adapt existing design-build statutes to apply to a broader set of local projects.
  • ContractingControls and Oversight: Likely includes requirements to ensure compliance with conflicts of interest, public bid law, financial safeguards, and accountability in design-build procurements. May address:
    • Qualifications-based or best-value selection criteria.
    • Public bid/titling standards and disclosure obligations.
    • Risk allocation between owner and design-builder.
  • Project Scope and Limitations: The measure may set parameters on project size, type (e.g., public works infrastructure, facilities), and/or dollar thresholds under which design-build can be used, along with any mandatory alternatives for projects that do not meet criteria.
  • Public Transparency: Provisions to maintain transparency in the procurement process, such as notice requirements, memorializing bid results, and making procurement documents accessible.
  • Compatibility with Other Statutes: Ensures alignment with state requirements for public contracting, local agency powers, environmental review, and any pertinent oversight bodies.

Who would be affected

  • Local government agencies in California that undertake public works projects.
  • Design-build industry participants, including developers, construction managers, engineers, architecture firms, and general contractors seeking design-build opportunities with local agencies.
  • Public stakeholders and taxpayers, who may benefit from potentially faster project delivery and more integrated project management, subject to compliance with procurement laws and project oversight.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced and referred through multiple committees during the 2025-2026 session.
  • Notable committee actions:
    • Referred to Local Government (L. GOV) committee (early stage).
    • Passed the Senate committee with a “do pass” recommendation and re-referred to the Appropriations (APPR) committee with a consent calendar recommendation (June 3, 2026), indicating favorable stance with consideration for budgetary implications.
    • Subsequent progression through Senate processes (second reading, third reading, and passage) observed in April 2026, with formal passage and transmission to the Assembly noted.
  • Final status in the provided history shows passage in the Senate and referral to the Assembly, with the Assembly timeline continuing in April–June 2026.

Potential impact

  • Efficiency and timeliness: By authorizing design-build for local projects, agencies may accelerate delivery timelines and enable more integrated design and construction processes.
  • Cost considerations: Design-build can offer potential cost savings or value engineering opportunities, though outcomes depend on project specifics and procurement practices.
  • Accountability and transparency: The bill’s framework would shape how projects are bid, evaluated, and monitored to ensure public accountability.
  • Market implications: May expand opportunities for design-build firms and related professionals to compete for local public contracts.

Note: The summary reflects the bill’s apparent scope and committee trajectory based on the provided action history. For precise language, statutory text, and any amendments, please refer to the official bill file and legislative analyses.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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