Public utilities: public service commission; competitive bidding for certain utility contracts; require. Amends 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.1 - 460.11) by adding sec. 6bb.

This bill requires electric and natural gas utilities in Michigan to use a competitive bidding process for all contracts related to construction, operations, maintenance, and capital improvements. To enforce this rule, the state's public service commission will be prohibited from allowing utilities to recover costs for work that was not competitively bid, and the law grants ratepayers and bidders the right to sue for damages or injunctive relief if the process is not followed. Additionally, all bids and related documentation must be treated as public records and made available for inspection by anyone. The legislation defines "competitive procurement" by referencing specific federal standards that local governments must follow.