<?xml version='1.0' encoding='utf-8'?>
<regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" citation="COMAR 21.06.03.08" title_num="21" subtitle_num="06" chapter_num="03" heading="Lease with Purchase Option.">
  <paragraph num="A.">
    <text>A purchase option in a lease may be exercised only if the lease containing the purchase option was awarded under competitive sealed bidding, competitive sealed proposals, or competitive small procurement procedures, or the leased supply or facility is the only supply or facility that can meet the State's requirements, as determined in writing by the agency head.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="B.">
    <text>Before exercising the option, the procurement officer shall:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Investigate alternative means of procuring comparable supplies;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Compare estimated costs and benefits associated with the alternative means and the exercise of the option; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>Obtain review and approval of the appropriate Department.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
</regulation>