PROCUREMENT-HIGHER ED

Amends the Illinois Procurement Code. Expands what public-private agreements are exempt from the Code, and exempts leasing of clinical space and certain funds for collaborative clinical and academic programs from the Code. Re-enacts provisions of the Code concerning the applicability of the Code to artistic or musical services and to public institutions of higher education. Provides that the Executive Ethics Commission may (rather than shall) appoint procurement compliance monitors for certain terms. Makes changes to requirements for competitive sealed bidding and competitive sealed proposals. Increases the small purchase threshold and certain other thresholds to $100,000. Requires contractors to be authorized to conduct business in Illinois at the time of contract execution (rather than at time of proposal or bid). Sets forth requirements for best value procurement. Includes public institutions of higher education in provisions concerning design-build contracts. In provisions concerning preferences for high-gas mileage vehicles, allows an exemption for vehicles based on intended use or other reasonable considerations, such as the health and safety of citizens. Repeals a provision concerning the use of soybean oil-based inks. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.