H.R. 7076: To require the Secretary of Defense to report on certain contracts and awards to small business concerns, and for other purposes.

This bill requires the Secretary of Defense to conduct a study on the awarding of contracts and grants specifically to small businesses. Here are the key points of the bill:

Study Requirements

The Secretary of Defense, through the Office of Small Business Programs, must carry out a thorough review of contracts that were valued at or below the simplified acquisition threshold as defined in U.S. law. This study aims to assess whether the Department of Defense is effectively considering and applying requirements related to small business concerns as outlined in the Small Business Act.

Report Submission

The Secretary of Defense is required to submit a report to several congressional committees within 180 days after the bill becomes law. This report must include the following information:

• The total dollar amount of contracts awarded at or below the simplified acquisition threshold over the past five years, including what percentage and total amount went to small businesses.
• An overview of the different types of contracts awarded at or below the threshold that were not given to small businesses, including details about the products or services involved.
• An overview of the reasons why certain contracts were not set aside for small businesses when they could have been.
• Any observable trends, themes, or patterns regarding contracts that were awarded to larger entities when they should have been designated for small businesses.
• Recommendations for changes in laws, regulations, policies, or guidance to ensure that small businesses are given full consideration for contracts as required.

Purpose of the Bill

The overall goal of this legislation is to enhance the participation of small businesses in government contracting, ensuring that they receive fair opportunities for contracts that they are entitled to. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support small businesses and stimulate economic growth by involving them in federal procurement processes.

Relevant Companies

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