H.R. 7795: Veterans Affairs Subcontractor Competition and Opportunity Network Act

This bill, titled the Veterans Affairs Subcontractor Competition and Opportunity Network Act or the VA SUBCON Act, aims to enhance the opportunities for veteran-owned small businesses in securing contracts and subcontracts with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Database Establishment

The bill requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to create and maintain a database specifically for small businesses that are certified as being owned and controlled by veterans. This action is intended to help the VA meet its contracting goals related to veteran-owned businesses. The database will include:

• Small businesses owned and controlled by veterans without service-connected disabilities.
• Small businesses owned and controlled by veterans with service-connected disabilities.

Exclusions from the Database

Not all businesses can be included in the database. The following will be excluded:

• Small businesses that are part of a mentor-protégé program or engaged in a joint venture.
• Small businesses that have not previously secured at least two prime contracts, rated 'Satisfactory' or better in performance evaluations.

Access to the Database

The database will be accessible to other businesses that are bidding on VA contracts. This access is important for those businesses to develop their mandatory small business subcontracting plans, facilitating partnerships with the veteran-owned businesses listed in the database.

Reporting Requirements

Within 180 days of establishing the database, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs must submit a report to Congressional committees. This report will detail:

• The usage and availability of the database.
• The number of veteran-owned small businesses selected as subcontractors since the database's inception, categorized by ownership type (those with and without service-connected disabilities).
• Recommendations for increasing the utilization of the database.

Implementation and Funding

To implement the provisions of this bill, the VA will utilize existing personnel, systems, and funds, meaning it will not require new appropriations or the creation of a new office.

Expiration of Provisions

The provisions set forth in this section of the bill will expire on December 31, 2028.

Relevant Companies

None found