SPRINGFIELD, IL - State Senator John Sullivan (D - Rushville) and State Rep. Rich Myers (R – Macomb) sponsored legislation that will speed up and streamline drainage district projects by raising the cost threshold for the competitive bid process. Governor Pat Quinn signed the bill into law on Monday.

"The current maximum amount by which drainage districts are required to hold competitive bidding was established half a century ago, and obviously since that time costs have risen dramatically," Rep. Myers said. "The new law will bring the competitive bid threshold in line with modern day prices, thus speeding up the timeline which drainage projects can be completed. This is extremely important for time sensitive projects in western Illinois drainage districts, particularly those located along the Mississippi River, which can be hampered by weather delays."

Senate Bill 1972 states that drainage districts are not required to seek competitive bids for services, materials, equipment, supplies or construction costing less than $20,000, instead of the current $5,000. Costs exceeding the $20,000 threshold will still be subject to the competitive bid process. The new bidding requirement brings the amount up to date with the rate of inflation.

"I introduced this legislation at the request of a drainage district commissioner located in my senate district," Senator Sullivan said. "This update to the law will speed up completion of critical maintenance and construction projects and ensure fair and prompt payment to contractors and workers who keep the drainage districts running smoothly. I appreciate a constituent bringing the need for this legislation to my attention."

It is necessary to increase the competitive bid amount in order for contractors to be able to complete drainage district projects within the required timeframe. Because the cost of maintaining drainage and levee districts has increased so sharply, projects and purchases that once did not require competitive bids now easily meet the $5,000 requirement, therefore extending the length of time it takes to obtain essential materials and equipment.