Answer

Yes, a vehicle is considered a material or supply for purposes of the Public Bid Law under R.S. 38:2212.1. Generally, any purchase of a vehicle whose cost exceeds $60,000 must be bid unless an alternative procurement process is available. R.S. 38:2212(A)(2)(a) requires that any used or new motor vehicle purchased for conversion into a law enforcement vehicle whose cost exceeds $40,000 must be bid, unless an alternative process is available. For instance, a public entity can purchase a vehicle off of an existing State contract without bidding out the purchase. Further, a public entity can piggyback off an existing contract by another Louisiana political subdivision under either R.S. 38:321.1 or the Local Services Law, R.S. 33:1324. Finally, a public entity can purchase off of Federal GSA lists so long as the item is not available for a lower amount on an existing State contract and the public entity utilizes a Louisiana licensed dealer or distributor. Louisiana Legislative Auditor website: 05/06/2025 10:27:07 PM