SB 22-048

Senate Bill 22-048 requires Colorado's Department of Transportation (CDOT) to hire an expert from the private sector to review and improve the dispute resolution process between CDOT and contractors. The expert will provide recommendations by December 15, 2022, which CDOT must then present as part of its annual government accountability report to legislative committees. Additionally, a committee including representatives from both CDOT and contractors will oversee this work. Since the bill has been signed into law, these changes are now in effect and aim to enhance transparency and efficiency in resolving disputes related to transportation projects in Colorado.

Official Summary

The bill requires the department of transportation (CDOT) to contract with a private sector expert to review the dispute review board stage of the process used to resolve contractual disputes between CDOT and contractors and complete a report making recommendations for best practices and improvements to CDOT by December 15, 2022. CDOT and the contractor must then present the report as part of CDOT's "State Measurement for Accountable, Responsive, and Transparent (SMART) Government Act" presentation to its legislative oversight committees. CDOT is also required to convene a committee of a contractor, CDOT, and legislative members to oversee the work of the expert.(Note: This summary applies to this bill as introduced.)