H.R.1816 - WOSB Accountability Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1816, the WOSB Accountability Act, aims to refine the certification process for small businesses owned and controlled by women (WOSBs). It seeks to exclude self-certified WOSBs from government-wide and agency goals unless they obtain formal certification through the Small Business Administration (SBA) or an approved national certifying entity. The bill mandates rulemaking by the SBA and requires quarterly briefings to relevant congressional committees on the implementation progress.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill will be to ensure greater accountability and verification in the WOSB program. This will likely lead to a more accurate representation of certified WOSBs in government contracting goals. It also introduces a transition period for self-certified WOSBs already in the system, allowing them time to seek formal certification.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced accuracy in reporting WOSB participation in federal contracting.
- Increased credibility of the WOSB program through stricter certification requirements.
- A more level playing field for certified WOSBs who have already undergone formal verification.
- Improved oversight and transparency through required quarterly briefings to Congress.
- A transitional period to allow self-certified WOSBs to obtain formal certification.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential administrative burden on the SBA and national certifying entities.
- Possible delays in processing certification applications, impacting WOSB participation.
- Increased costs for WOSBs seeking formal certification from national certifying entities.
- Confusion among WOSBs regarding the new certification requirements and transition period.
- Potential exclusion of some deserving WOSBs if they fail to obtain timely certification.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) by regulating businesses that participate in interstate commerce through federal contracting. It also aligns with Congress's power to make laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers (Article I, Section 8, Clause 18). The bill does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).