What does a purchase over the micro-purchase threshold typically require?

A purchase over the micro-purchase threshold typically requires competitive quotes to ensure that the government is getting the best value for its expenditures. The rationale behind this requirement is to promote fair competition and transparency in the procurement process. By soliciting multiple quotes, the government can assess various suppliers' offerings and costs, which ultimately leads to better decision-making and optimal use of taxpayer dollars. This requirement helps to prevent unnecessary spending and supports the principles of fiscal responsibility within government purchasing.

In the context of government procurement, the micro-purchase threshold is established to streamline the purchasing process for low-dollar transactions, allowing for efficiency without extensive procedural requirements. However, once that threshold is exceeded, the need for competitive quotes ensures that larger purchases are justified and properly vetted.