County commission procurement; procurement program allowed to apply to purchase of services, county commission allowed to consider administrative savings

Alabama counties gain more purchasing card options

Beginning October 1, 2026, Alabama county commissions can use approved purchasing card programs for services as well as goods. Significant administrative savings can qualify a program instead of significant cost savings. Vendors participate voluntarily, and designated buyers use limited-use cards only for purchases approved in advance by the commission. Before starting, counties must confirm accounting standards, required audit records, safeguards against misuse, significant savings, and careful supervision. Written rules must set limits per purchase and per month, account for county debt limits, and require buyer training. Training must cover allowed purchases, purchase records, and daily and monthly limits. The county’s chief administrative officer or a designee oversees the program and keeps accurate records. The commission chair reviews records periodically, with other members reviewing as needed; card bills receive monthly checks for unauthorized charges. Programs must follow state purchasing law and pay every purchase in full electronically within 45 days. County purchasing authority is suspended immediately if the card provider does not receive payment or settlement within that deadline. These changes create no direct household benefit or duty.