41-2511. Authority of the director

A. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the director may adopt rules, consistent with this chapter, governing the procurement and management of all materials, services and construction to be procured by this state and the disposal of materials.

B. The director shall serve as the central procurement officer of this state.

C. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the director shall, in accordance with rules adopted under this chapter:

1. Procure or supervise the procurement of all materials, services and construction needed by this state.

2. Establish guidelines for the management of all inventories of materials belonging to this state.

3. Sell, trade or otherwise dispose of surplus materials belonging to this state.

4. Establish and maintain programs for the inspection, testing and acceptance of materials, services and construction.

5. Establish and maintain programs to ensure procurement compliance with this chapter and applicable rules.

6. Establish and maintain a mandatory procurement training and certification program to ensure consistency in procurement practices for those authorized to perform procurement functions under this chapter.

7. Employ staff as necessary to perform the duties prescribed in this chapter.

8. Establish procurement offices as the director determines necessary to maintain an effective and efficient program of procurement administration.

9. Provide consultation to state agency management in all aspects of procurement to increase efficiency and economy in state agencies by improving the methods of procurement with full recognition of the requirements and needs of management.

10. Enter into agreements with any state government unit or political subdivision of this state or agency of a political subdivision of this state to furnish procurement administration services and facilities of the department. Unless monies have been appropriated by the legislature for this purpose, any agreement shall provide for reimbursement to this state of the actual cost of the services and facilities furnished, as determined by the director.

11. Enter into agreements with the attorney general for dedicated legal resources to support any state governmental unit in procurement legal matters, including negotiations, protests and appeals.