(a) The comptroller or other state agency may acquire a telecommunications device, system, or service or an automated information system by using competitive sealed proposals if the comptroller determines that competitive sealed bidding and informal competitive bidding are not practical or are disadvantageous to the state.
(b) A state agency, other than the department, shall send its proposal specifications and criteria to the comptroller for approval or request the comptroller to develop the proposal specifications and criteria.

(c) The department may acquire a telecommunications device, system, or service or an automated information system by using competitive sealed proposals without regard to whether the comptroller makes the determination required under Subsection (a) for other state agencies.