Measure Creates Online Database for 'One-Stop-Shopping' for Public Contracts
(Trenton) - Legislation Assembly members Annette Quijano, Ruben J. Ramos, Jr., and Wayne P. DeAngelo sponsored to create an Internet database to provide the public with an easily accessible and comprehensive source of current information on local requests for proposals has been signed into law.
The measure was part of the Legislature's "Back to Work NJ" job creation and economic development initiative.
"This measure will improve transparency in local government and make it easier for citizens, groups and local governments to access information concerning public bidding," said Quijano (D-Union).
The law (A-3128) requires the State Department of Community Affairs, in consultation with the Office of Information Technology, to design, develop, and maintain a single, searchable Internet database, to be known as "Bulletin NJ," that would contain and display information on requests for proposals and other government procurement opportunities published by a contracting unit.
"It's important that we provide contractors and small businesses with a simple, effective means of actively searching through the hundreds of public contracts that are put out to bid," said Ramos (D-Hudson). "Doing so will help contractors get back on sound financial footing and hasten our state's economic recovery."
"By making publicly contracted jobs and other public contract opportunities accessible to everyone, we increase our chances of finding more highly qualified workers at perhaps a better rate to help contain costs," said DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex).
Under the law, the database will provide prospective bidders with the following information: 1) a detailed description of the services required; 2) the format and procedure that would be followed in submitting proposals; 3) the specific information which qualified vendors would provide in the proposal; 4) a statement setting forth the relative importance of factors, including cost, which the contracting unit would consider in evaluating a proposal submitted by a qualified vendor; 5) the deadline by which proposals must be submitted to the contracting unit; and 6) any other information the contracting unit deems appropriate.
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