New Procurement Rules For Public Trusts

A new law will go into effect Nov. 1 which will level the playing field for the acquisition of operational equipment, supplies and services by governmental entities.

Oklahoma has more than 100 public trusts, which are separate legal entities formed to benefit the State of Oklahoma or a city or county within Oklahoma. Public trusts are used around the state to operate hospitals, public utilities and other important government services.

Senate Bill 173, which was supported by the Oklahoma Municipal League, the City of Oklahoma City and the Oklahoma Hospital Association, will eliminate outdated competitive bidding requirements for public trusts, and permit them the flexibility cities and counties currently have in obtaining required goods and services needed for day-to-day operation.