THE NEW BIDDING LAW (LAW NO. 14,133/2021) AND THE OBSTACLES IN THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION OF SMALL MUNICIPALITIES

Abstract

This article analyzes the main challenges faced by small municipalities in implementing the New Law on Public Procurement and Contracts (Law No. 14,133/2021) in Brazil. The new legislation represents a step forward in modernizing public procurement processes, seeking greater transparency, efficiency, and use of technological resources. However, the adoption of the law has been hampered by structural, budgetary, and technical qualification limitations in smaller municipal administrations. The research was based on a literature review to identify the main legal, operational, and institutional difficulties that impact the application of the law. The results indicate that the lack of trained civil servants, fragile administrative infrastructure, and the absence of adequate technological resources are the biggest obstacles for these municipalities. Despite these limitations, the study highlights that investments in training, institutional support, and strengthening of local governance can favor adaptation to the new law. In addition, success depends on cooperation between the different levels of government and the development of strategies that consider regional particularities. It is concluded that, although challenging, the implementation of Law No. 14,133/2021 in small municipalities can promote significant improvements in public management, as long as it is accompanied by effective planning and public policies.