Answer

No, absent guidance from the Attorney General (AG) to the contrary, the city would be required to comply with the provisions of the Public Bid Law in making such a lease purchase. While the Public Bid Law does not apply to a “true lease” of vehicles in which ownership of the vehicles does not pass to the entity leasing the vehicle (either as part of the contract or through an option to purchase), the AG has noted that a lease purchase is not a true lease and must comply with the Public Bid Law. Further, the Public Bid Law provides an exception for purchases of items off of state contract or through a local vendor. R.S. 38:2212.1(F) & R.S. 39:1710. The exception, however, is for the purchase and does not provide for the lease purchase of the vehicle. Louisiana Legislative Auditor website: 04/03/2026 05:53:49 PM