Revise requirements for public works contracts

This bill (LC 4175) modifies Montana's public works contracting rules by adding specific exceptions to the requirement that state agencies give resident contractors a preference equal to what other states offer. It allows state agencies to bypass this preference and award contracts to the second-lowest bidder if the lowest bidder has failed to perform on prior contracts, requested more than two extensions, or skipped warranty work. The bill affects state agencies awarding construction, repair, or public works contracts and the contractors bidding on those projects. It does not create new requirements but clarifies when existing resident preference rules do not apply.