HB 3574

Abstract

Creates the Ethics in Public Contracting Act. Provides that whenever any State agency or chief procurement officer has taken an action to issue a suspension, debarment, or limit the ability of a business or person to enter into a public contract as otherwise provided by law, the public body or the chief procurement officer shall provide a report to the Executive Ethics Commission identifying specified items. Provides that whenever any unit of local government has taken an action to issue a suspension, debarment, or limit the ability of a business or person to enter into a public contract as otherwise provided by law, the unit of local government may provide a report to the Executive Ethics Commission identifying specified items. Provides that the Executive Ethics Commission, within 12 months after the effective date of the Act, shall establish and maintain a website, known as the Ethics in Public Contracting Portal, with information received from all State agencies and units of local government. Provides that a State agency or unit of local government may reciprocate another public body's suspension, debarment, or other limitation on the ability of a business or person to enter into a public contract. Provides that the Executive Ethics Commission shall adopt rules to carry out the intent of the Act, and to provide a review process for persons to petition for removal from the Ethics in Public Contracting Portal. Defines terms.