(a) A state agency may purchase materials, supplies, or equipment through group purchasing programs in accordance with this section. (b) Before making a particular purchase through a group purchasing program that costs more than $100,000, a state agency must notify the commission in writing that the purchase is being considered. The notification must be signed by the chief purchasing officer for the state agency. The notification must include a complete description of the purchase, the vendor's name, quantity and price information, the terms and conditions of the contract, and any other information required by the commission. (c) If the commission determines that a better value is available through the commission, it will so inform the requesting state agency within ten working days after receipt of the notification. Upon receipt of information that a better value is available, the state agency shall utilize established purchasing procedures for the purchase including good faith effort compliance §§111.11-111.28 of this title (relating to Historically Underutilized Businesses). If the state agency does not receive such notification within ten working days, it may proceed with the purchase. (d) A state agency participating in group purchasing programs shall adhere to the same ethical standards required of commission employees as set forth in §111.4 of this title (relating to Ethical Standards).

Source Note: The provisions of this §20.50 adopted to be effective May 17, 1994, 19 TexReg 3363; amended to be effective April 5, 1999, 24 TexReg 2637; amended to be effective September 11, 2000, 25 TexReg 8848; amended to be effective December 11, 2003, 28 TexReg 10914; transferred effective September 1, 2007, as published in the Texas Register July 6, 2007, 32 TexReg 4237