ART - Purchasing Policy and Procedure Manuals - User Department External Procedures 2003

The document is a policy statement from the Department of Health & Mental Hygiene (DHMH) in Maryland regarding procurement of goods and services. The policy aims to promote uniform procurement policies that foster effective competition, provide increased economy to the state, and ensure fair and equitable treatment of those seeking state business. The Maryland General Assembly has established laws governing procurement by agencies within the Executive branch of Maryland government, granting procurement authority to the Maryland Board of Public Works (the Board) and allowing them to promulgate regulations. The Board has delegated certain procurement authority to the Department of Budget and Management and the Department of General Services, who have further delegated authority to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. The policy states that DHMH will procure goods and services in accordance with Maryland procurement law and regulations, as well as Board policy and procedures. The document provides definitions, general guidelines, and delegation of approval procedures. The Office of Contract Policy, Management and Procurement is responsible for providing advice, aid, and training related to the procurement process. Additionally, the document mentions that approved contracts should have a control number affixed to them, following the ADPICS Coding Instructions Manual, and the DHMH shall collect this information.