The department or authority may perform the duties assigned to the department or authority under this article either directly or through a contracted manufacturer or vendor selected pursuant to the state procurement process and operating in coordination with the department or authority. Any procurements made under this article shall not be considered to be a contract for professional services. The department or authority shall follow the department or authority’s procurement procedures. The department or authority shall have sole discretion on selecting a vendor or vendors.

(Act 2026-475, §17.)