| (a) This subchapter implements the following provisions of
state law:
(1) Section 2155.144, paragraphs (h) and (i), Government Code,
which instruct the commission to adopt rules that allow health and human services
agencies to make purchases through a group purchasing program and encourage
agencies to use efficient purchasing methods such as a group purchasing program;
and
(2) Section 32.044, paragraph (d), Human Resources Code, which
authorizes the commission to assist the Texas Department of Health to adopt
rules that allow public or private disproportionate share hospitals to make
purchases through a group purchasing program under certain circumstances.
(b) A purchasing entity may purchase goods or services, including
consulting and professional services and goods or services defined as an "automated
information system" under chapter 2157, Government Code, through cooperative
purchasing methods prescribed in this subchapter except when a better value
is available through another procurement method.
(c) A purchasing entity may participate in, conduct, administer,
or sponsor a cooperative purchasing arrangement authorized by this subchapter.
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