Procurement Protection Act Passes Senate

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Senate has passed Senate Bill 997, which creates the Procurement Protection Act. The measure by Sen. Avery Frix, R-Muskogee, prohibits state-owned enterprises of a foreign adversary, companies domiciled within a foreign adversary, foreign adversary companies, and federally banned corporations from bidding on contracts with state agencies and political subdivisions.

“This bill is a significant step toward safeguarding Oklahoma’s interests and resources,” Frix said. “By preventing foreign adversaries and restricted corporations from securing state contracts, we are protecting our economy, security, and the integrity of our state’s procurement processes.”

Under SB 997, companies submitting bids would be required to certify that they have no ties to any foreign adversary.

If the Director of the Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) finds that a company has submitted a false certification, the company may face penalties, including a $250,000 civil fine, contract termination, and a five-year ban from submitting future bids.

“This legislation will ensure Oklahoma’s resources are directed to businesses that prioritize the interests of our state and nation and that contracts are awarded only to those who truly support our values and our people,” Frix added.

The bill passed the Senate with overwhelming support and is now eligible for consideration in the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

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For more information, contact: Sen. Avery Frix at 405-521-5533, or email Avery.Frix@oksenate.gov.