Effective October 24, 2024, the competitive bidding threshold for Ohio public school districts contained in Ohio Revised Code (“ORC”) 3313.46 will increase from $50,000 to $75,000 through 2024, and will then increase by 3% annually as set forth in ORC 9.17. This change in the law was included Senate Bill 168 and builds upon the 2023 changes in the bidding threshold for other Ohio political subdivisions.
Each type of political subdivision in Ohio has its own competitive bidding statute. The chart below summarizes the competitive bidding thresholds for various political subdivisions. However, this chart does not capture the full statutory requirements for each political subdivision, which are not the same. Additionally, there may be exceptions to competitive bidding requirements for specific political subdivisions. Also note that different statutory procurement processes may be required to engage design professionals, construction managers at risk, and design-builders.
* The law now explicitly prohibits this subdivision from dividing projects in order to avoid the
competitive bidding requirements. However, it is implied and recommended practice for all public
entities to refrain from doing so as well.
Each political subdivision, including public school districts, should review the applicable statutory requirements and its own internal policies in consultation with legal counsel to determine the proper procedures for procurement, including bidding for construction contracts and other types of purchases.
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