<?xml version='1.0' encoding='utf-8'?>
<regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" citation="COMAR 14.39.03.14" title_num="14" subtitle_num="39" chapter_num="03" heading="Negotiated Award After Unsatisfactory Competitive Sealed Bidding.">
  <paragraph num="A.">
    <text>General. An LEA may make a negotiated award after unsatisfactory competitive sealed bidding if, after bids have been opened, the LEA:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Rejects all bids pursuant to Regulation .07F(2) or .08G(2) of this chapter; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Determines that:</text>
      <paragraph num="(a)">
        <text>Funding does not permit an award to the lowest responsible and responsive bidder;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(b)">
        <text>Any delay resulting from a resolicitation with revised specifications under competitive sealed bidding would be fiscally disadvantageous or would not otherwise be in the best interest of the LEA or the State; or</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(c)">
        <text>Both.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="B.">
    <text>Invitation for Revised Bids. The LEA shall:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Issue an invitation for revised bids based on revised specifications to the original bidders as promptly as possible; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Require a prompt response.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="C.">
    <text>Discussion. Discussion may not be conducted with bidders after revised bids have been submitted unless the LEA determines that there is compelling need for further negotiation. Any discussion concerning revised specifications shall be conducted with all responsible bidders in a fair and equal manner.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="D.">
    <text>Award. The LEA shall award the contract to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder whose bid meets the invitation for revised bids.</text>
  </paragraph>
</regulation>