Rhode IslandH76742026 Regular SessionHouse

AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC PROPERTY AND WORKS -- STATE PURCHASES .

Sponsored By: John G. Edwards (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 3 mixed.

New PPP rules for state projects

The law lets Rhode Island use public‑private partnerships (PPPs) for state assets. Agencies stay responsible for oversight and must award PPPs through competitive bidding. Every PPP RFP must spell out project terms, partner duties, agency oversight, scoring with weights, a value‑for‑money review by an expert, financing plans (revenues, service payments, bonds, and any public funds), and proposer qualifications. If a PPP uses state money, the contract must follow state construction contracting rules. Any private partner must prove it can do the work.

Stronger labor standards on PPP jobs

Contractors on PPP construction must pay the state’s prevailing wage. For PPPs over $25,000,000, the awarding authority must study whether to use a project labor agreement using clear, reviewable criteria. Private partners must provide a labor harmony plan for the full term, including construction and maintenance, with remedies if disruptions occur. These rules support fair pay and fewer work stoppages, and they can raise compliance and labor costs for firms.

Protections if PPPs replace state workers

Before awarding any PPP that may displace unionized state or quasi‑public employees, the state must follow Chapters 148 and 149 and any union contract rules. These steps apply before the award and add review and protections for represented workers who could be replaced.

PPP rulebook due by July 2027

The chief purchasing officer must issue PPP rules by July 1, 2027. The rules guide how agencies evaluate, solicit, and enter PPPs. The officer must consult builders, designers, contractors, and labor groups. The rules aim to promote PPP use while setting clear procedures.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

John G. Edwards
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

David A. Bennett
Democratic • House
Terri Cortvriend
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 61 • No: 7

House vote • 6/8/2026

PROPERTY - STATE PURCHASES PASSAGE