Delaware permits approved online auctions for state pharmacy contracts

The state purchasing office may run an online auction or allow an agency to run one. This applies only to professional service contracts for the State Employee Benefits Committee involving drugs or pharmacy benefit management. The purchasing office must find the auction useful and get written approval from its director or a designated official.

The purchasing office must set written steps for reviewing offers before an auction. These requirements apply to the covered pharmacy service auctions. Vendors must register so officials can check them and confirm they accept the contract terms. The bid notice must explain the auction plan, schedule, and review steps. The review steps must be ready before price bidding begins, and vendors must register before the auction opens.

Officials keep auction proposal materials closed until they receive a signed contract, then make the proposals available for public inspection. The early restriction covers proposals, summaries, and other evaluation records from these auctions. Public access to the proposals begins after officials receive a signed contract.