Procurement - Scrutinized Entities - Prohibition

HB 188 prohibits Maryland state and local governments from contracting with entities owned, operated, or controlled by governments of countries subject to a federal arms embargo under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations. It requires the Board of Public Works to maintain a public list of such "scrutinized entities" and mandates that all bidders or contractors certify they are not on this list. The bill includes procedures for entities to contest inclusion on the list (with 90 days' notice and opportunity to provide evidence) and allows state agencies to report false certifications to the Attorney General for potential penalties. This applies to all state/local government procurement for goods or services, preempting conflicting local laws.