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Bill

HB 329

Reverse auction; revise method of receiving bids through for agencies and governing authorities.

2026 Regular Session

HB 329 authorizes Mississippi state agencies to use reverse auctions for procurement, allowing suppliers to submit progressively lower competing bids in real-time to reduce government purchasing costs.

Referred To Workforce Development
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Bill Summary · HB 329

Legislative bill overview

HB 329 modifies Mississippi's procurement process by allowing state agencies and governing authorities to conduct reverse auctions when soliciting bids for goods and services. A reverse auction is a competitive bidding method where suppliers submit progressively lower bids in real-time, with the lowest final bid winning the contract. This represents a shift from traditional sealed-bid procurement methods.

Why is this important

Reverse auctions can potentially reduce government spending by leveraging real-time competition among vendors and creating price transparency. However, the shift from sealed bidding to open bidding formats could affect which types of businesses participate and may disadvantage smaller suppliers unfamiliar with reverse auction platforms or unable to respond quickly to dynamic pricing.

Potential points of contention

  • Vendor participation barriers: Small and minority-owned businesses may face technological or logistical challenges competing in real-time reverse auctions versus traditional sealed-bid processes
  • Quality vs. cost trade-offs: Reverse auctions emphasize price competition, potentially risking selection of lowest-cost providers over those offering better quality, service, or local benefits
  • Implementation costs and training: Agencies would need new procurement systems, vendor platforms, and staff training to conduct reverse auctions, creating upfront expenses that may offset savings

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

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