RELATING TO PROCUREMENT.

Replaced the original section on project management authorization with new Section 103D-101, which mandates that public employees act as fiduciaries, remain independent from bidders, and avoid conflicts of interest.

Added new requirements for bidders and contractors to practice purchasing ethics, avoid unethical behavior, and ensure a fair competitive environment.

Clarified that while third-party project management services are allowed, they cannot exercise decision-making authority or supervise public employees; oversight remains an inherent responsibility of the state agency.

Adjusted the definition of 'Project management' to clarify budget modification rules, ensuring changes are feasible within the original budget unless specific conditions are met.

Updated the appropriated funding amount from a blank placeholder to $728,927 for fiscal year 2026-2027 to support a new Special Project Branch.

Changed the effective date of the Act from July 1, 3000, to July 1, 2025.

Updated the bill version from House Draft 1 (HD1) to Senate Draft 1 (SD1) and changed the language setting from English to Japanese.

Removed the prohibition preventing governmental bodies and public employees from procuring project management services through non-governmental third-party contracts.

Added conditions requiring that governmental bodies retain ultimate authority, accountability, and decision-making power over project management, preventing third parties from supervising public employees.

Changed the effective date of the Act from July 1, 2026, to July 1, 3000.

Replaced the definition of 'Project management' with a new section authorizing the procurement of project management services, removing the specific definition text.

Removed the specific dollar amount ($728,927) for the appropriation, leaving the amount blank in the new version.