(a) This subchapter shall be interpreted to ensure:
(1) the greatest and fairest competition in the selection by state agencies of consultants; and
(2) the giving of notice to all potential consultants of the need for and opportunity to provide consulting services.
(b) This subchapter does not:
(1) discourage state agencies from using consultants if the agencies reasonably foresee that the use of consultants will produce a more efficient and less costly operation or project;
(2) prohibit the making of a sole-source contract for consulting services if a proposal is not received from a competent, knowledgeable, and qualified consultant at a reasonable fee, after compliance with this subchapter; or
(3) require or prohibit the use of competitive bidding procedures to purchase consulting services.