For purposes of implementing this article, the department may enter into exclusive or nonexclusive contracts on a bid or negotiated basis, including, but not limited to, contracts for the purpose of obtaining subject matter expertise or other technical assistance. Any contract entered into or amended pursuant to this section shall be exempt from Part 2 (commencing with Section 10100) of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, Section 19130 of the Government Code, Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 14825) of Part 5.5 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, and the State Administrative Manual, and shall be exempt from the review or approval of any division of the Department of General Services.