Statutory Requirements
Various Massachusetts General Laws regulate all procurement activity depending on type and estimated value. MGL, Chapter 30B, Sections 1-19, commonly known as the Uniform Procurement Code, governs the procurement of supplies and services.
Procurement methods under Chapter 30B are varied. For procurements under $5000, the Purchasing Agent must employ sound business practices. For procurements of $5000 or more but less then $25,000, a minimum of three oral or written quotations must be solicited. For procurements of $25,000 or more, competitive sealed bids or proposals must be solicited through public advertisements.
• MGL, Chapter 30, Section 39M, governs all public works construction projects such as road and sidewalk work where the estimated value of the project is in excess of $10,000.
• MGL, Chapter 149, Section 44A-J, governs all public building construction, maintenance, remodeling, and repair.
• MGL, Chapter 7, Section 38A1/2-O, governs the acquisition of design services for all public works construction or public works building projects where the estimated value of the project is in excess of $100,000.
• Procurements made under MGL, Chapter 30, Section 39M, Chapter 149, Section 44A-J, and Chapter 7,Section 38A1/2-O, must be made via public advertisements.