WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

H 56

PUBLIC WORKS – Amends existing law to revise a provision regarding competitive bidding.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 56 raises the bidding threshold for public works in Idaho from $25,000 to $50,000, streamlining processes and boosting contractor participation for smaller projects.

Reported Signed by Governor on February 18, 2025 Session Law Chapter 3 Effective: 07/01/2025
#administrationdepartment #construction #government #publicworks
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 56

Summary of House Bill 56 (H 56)

Title

PUBLIC WORKS – Amends existing law to revise a provision regarding competitive bidding.

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: H 56
  • Status: Reported Signed by Governor on February 18, 2025
  • Session Law Chapter: 3
  • Effective Date: July 1, 2025
  • Introduced: January 24, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject: Administration Department, Construction, Government, Public Works

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 56 aims to update the competitive bidding process for public works projects in Idaho by increasing the project cost threshold that requires a formal written competitive bid. This change is intended to streamline the bidding process for smaller projects and align Idaho's regulations with those of political subdivisions.

Key Provisions

  • Increase in Cost Threshold: The bill raises the estimated project cost limit from $25,000 to $50,000 before a written competitive bidding process is mandated. This limit has not been adjusted since 2005.
  • Competitive Bidding Process:
    • All construction contracts for public works must still be awarded to the lowest responsible and responsive bidder after competitive sealed bidding.
    • For projects with a cost estimate between $25,000 and $50,000, agencies must solicit at least three informal bids from licensed contractors if they do not perform the work with existing staff.
    • Adequate public notice for informal bids must be given at least seven days prior to bid opening.
  • Prequalification of Bidders: The bill allows for a prequalification process for contractors, ensuring that only those meeting specific standards can bid on certain projects.
  • Public Inspection of Bids: All bids and bid documents will remain open for public inspection after the award of the contract.

Impact

  • Affected Parties: This legislation primarily impacts state agencies and contractors involved in public works projects. It simplifies the bidding process for smaller projects, potentially increasing participation from contractors.
  • Fiscal Impact: According to the fiscal note, the bill is not expected to have any financial impact on the state’s General Fund or any dedicated or federal funds, as it only modifies operational procedures related to competitive bidding.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 24, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Commerce & Human Resources Committee.
  • February 11, 2025: Passed in the House with a vote of 68-0.
  • February 12, 2025: Passed in the Senate.
  • February 18, 2025: Signed by the Governor.
  • July 1, 2025: Effective date of the legislation.

Conclusion

House Bill 56 modernizes Idaho's competitive bidding process for public works projects by increasing the cost threshold for formal bidding. This change is expected to facilitate a more efficient bidding process for smaller projects while maintaining transparency and competition among contractors.

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

Sign in to ask a question.