What should a purchaser check according to the guidelines provided?

The correct answer involves checking set-aside contracts with Work Quest and TCI. This is crucial because set-aside contracts are agreements designed specifically to benefit certain groups, often including individuals with disabilities or other defined demographics. By consulting these contracts, a purchaser can ensure compliance with state and federal regulations that promote equal opportunities in contracting. This approach not only helps support the intended beneficiaries but also aligns with broader social responsibility goals within the state's procurement policies.

In this context, exploring local vendor contracts for the best pricing, checking online retailers for availability, or reviewing previous purchase orders may not directly address the specific requirements of compliance with set-aside programs that prioritize certain contracts. While those options are useful in other procurement scenarios, they do not specifically encompass the commitment to inclusivity and special programs that Work Quest and TCI represent. Thus, ensuring adherence to set-aside contracts not only benefits the targeted communities but also fulfills ethical and regulatory obligations within the purchasing process.