The provisions of Section 10295 shall apply both to contracts awarded through competitive bidding and those not subject to competitive bidding. The department shall deny its approval of a contract awarded through competitive bidding if it finds that the contract does not meet the specifications or other conditions of the bidding process, or if any applicable statutes or regulations regarding competitive bidding have been violated. With regard to any contract not awarded through competitive bidding, the department shall ascertain whether the contract is subject to competitive bidding requirements, and if it finds that is the case, the department shall deny its approval.
In making its determination on any contract, the department shall consider all other relevant factors, such as clarity of language and legality, and shall utilize its legal staff as necessary to facilitate the approval process.