(1) The department of corrections may extend the limits of confinement of the state prison in Deer Lodge for purposes of housing outside the prison fence inmates who:
(a) are employed in ranch or agricultural industry programs; and
(b) have demonstrated sufficient reliability and trustworthiness.
(2) Housing units outside the confines of the prison fence may be created by renovation of existing buildings or by the erection of modular-type units and associated facilities on the prison ranch.
(3) For the purpose of expediting the acquisition and construction of housing units authorized in subsection (2) the department of administration may exempt the project from provisions of Montana law relating to the employment of architects, advertising, labor, and wages. The department of administration need not comply with any state bidding requirements that would preclude a sole source purchase.