Guest Editorial by Brian Schoolman, Safran Law Offices
House Bill 857, which will permit state and local government to contract for construction projects through design-build and public-private partnership delivery methods, passed both houses of the General Assembly this week, and was ratified July 24. The bill now goes to Gov. McCrory for signature, and will become effective 30 days after signature.
One of the biggest and most significant additions to the bill since it was brought up on the Senate side is the creation of a study committee regarding the use of prequalification of contractors on public construction projects. The twelve-member committee is tasked with investigating that issue, and reporting to the General Assembly in time for the 2014 short session. Special thanks to Rep. Dean Arp for all of his efforts on this bill, and for listening to input (including mine and other interested members of the construction community) throughout the legislative process. Read More.