H.R. 787: Plain Language in Contracting Act

This bill, known as the Plain Language in Contracting Act, aims to make it easier for small businesses to understand government notices related to contract opportunities. Here are the key points of the bill:

Clear and Concise Notices

The bill requires that any government notice aimed at small businesses be written in a way that is:

• Clear: The language should be easy to read and understand.
• Concise: The messages need to be direct without unnecessary jargon.
• Accessible: The information should be approachable for small businesses looking for contract opportunities.

Consistency with Existing Guidelines

Notices must also align as closely as possible with the plain language guidelines set forth in the Plain Writing Act of 2010. This means that the government will focus on breaking down complex terms and legalese into simpler language.

Inclusion of Key Words

The notices should include key words relevant to the content so that small businesses can quickly identify and understand the opportunities being presented. This will help small business owners more easily find contracting opportunities that match their needs when searching the government’s online portals.

Implementation Timeline

Within 90 days of the bill's enactment, the Administrator of the Small Business Administration is required to establish rules to implement these changes. This sets a clear timeline for when small businesses can expect to see an improved experience in the contracting process.

Definitions

• Covered Notice: A notice related to small business concerns that is published by a federal agency on the designated government-wide point of entry.
• Small Business Concern: This term follows the definitions provided in the Small Business Act.

Budget Compliance

The bill specifies that no additional funds will be allocated to implement its provisions, ensuring compliance with the CUTGO (Cut-As-You-Go) policy which mandates that new expenditures must be offset by reductions elsewhere in the budget.

Relevant Companies

None found