This bill exempts energy savings performance contracts from the requirements of the local government public works construction law.  Counties will still be required to follow the procedures established in the energy savings performance contract statute, but certain provisions that were not intended to apply to county government have been removed (i.e., requiring the use of the State's prequalified list of providers). Counties will be required to issue a request for proposals to at least two qualified energy service providers, as well as advertise the contract opportunity by posting it at the board of commissioners' office and on the county's website, if one exists. 

SB 122 authorizes local governments and the state (at their discretion) to contract with private firms to procure permits and licenses, plan, finance, build, acquire, operate and maintain a water reservoir, facility or system -- acting in concert with GEFA's Water Supply Division if they wish. The local government may pay the firm with the user fees, purchase payments and other revenue for these services. This bill also establishes a process that counties can partner with other governments to enter into agreements up to 50 years with a private partner. Unlike proposals from previous sessions, SB 122 ensures that local governments participate in all aspects of the process.

This bill gives sovereign immunity to authorities (i.e., development, water and sewer authorities). The state and counties have sovereign immunity through the constitution.  cities have it through statute.  Authorities currently do not have it since they are separate legal entities.