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HB 1129

PROPERTY/PUBLIC: Provides relative to the selling of state-owned surplus movable property (EN SEE FISC NOTE SG EX)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Rodney Schamerhorn

The bill gives in-state auctioneers a price-based preference for state surplus sales when their bid is within 10% of an out-of-state bid and quality matches.

Effective date: 06/09/2026.
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Bill Summary · HB 1129

Summary of HB 1129 (2026, Louisiana)

Purpose

HB 1129 amends the process for selling state-owned surplus movable property, establishing a preference for in-state auctioneers when contracting for public auctions of surplus items. The goal is to support in-state vendors while maintaining competitive pricing and quality.

Key Provisions

  • Authority to Sell Surplus Property: The Commissioner of Administration remains authorized to sell surplus movable property of state boards, commissions, agencies, or departments at public auction. When live auctions are conducted, the commissioner may hire qualified licensed auctioneers to handle the sale, with compensation paid from the sale proceeds.

  • Auctioneer Selection Process:

    • Auctioneer selection must continue to be done by competitive bidding under the Louisiana Procurement Code.
    • The selection applies to a one-year term, with the commissioner required to select an auctioneer by competitive bid each year.

  • In-State Preference:

    • When bids are received from both in-state and out-of-state auctioneers, in-state auctioneers are given preference if their services are of equal quality and do not exceed the cost of comparable out-of-state services by more than 10%.
    • This creates a cost-based favoring rule favoring Louisiana-based auctioneers, provided the in-state option is cost-competitive within the 10% threshold.

  • Effective Date: The act becomes effective upon signature by the governor or, if not signed, upon expiration of the time for bills to become law without signature. If vetoed and subsequently approved by the legislature, it becomes effective the day following approval.

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • State Agencies and Departments: Continue to be served by the Commissioner of Administration for the sale of surplus movable property.
  • Auctioneers:
    • In-state auctioneers may gain more opportunities to handle state surplus sales due to the preference provision, assuming cost and quality are competitive.
    • Out-of-state auctioneers remain eligible but face potential preference limitations when in-state options meet cost/quality thresholds.
  • Taxpayer/Public Interest: Aims to enhance utilization of in-state businesses while preserving competitive bidding standards and ensuring public funds are used efficiently.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Procurement Process: Competitive bidding under the Louisiana Procurement Code remains mandatory for appointing auctioneers, with annual re-bid requirements.
  • Effective Date: As described above; detailed timing depends on the governor’s actions.
  • Amendment Scope: This bill amends only R.S. 39:330.1(A)(1) and does not alter other provisions related to the sale of surplus property.

Additional Notes

  • The bill aligns with a broader policy goal of supporting in-state vendors within the framework of competitive procurement.
  • The 10% cost threshold is a key limiter ensuring that in-state auctions remain cost-effective relative to out-of-state options.

If you’d like, I can provide a side-by-side comparison with the current statute or draft a one-page quick-reference guide for state procurement staff.

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

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