H.R.787 - Plain Language in Contracting Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 787, the Plain Language in Contracting Act, aims to improve the accessibility and clarity of federal notices for small business concerns. It mandates that these notices be written in plain language, include relevant keywords, and follow best practices to ensure small businesses can easily understand them. The Act also directs the Small Business Administration (SBA) to issue rules to implement these requirements within 90 days of enactment, although no additional funds are authorized for this purpose.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to increased participation of small businesses in federal contracting opportunities. By making notices easier to understand and find, small businesses will be better equipped to identify and pursue relevant contracts. This could also reduce confusion and potential errors in the bidding process.
Potential Benefits
- Increased accessibility: Small businesses will find it easier to understand government notices.
- Improved participation: More small businesses may participate in federal contracting.
- Reduced confusion: Clearer language reduces misunderstandings and errors.
- Enhanced efficiency: Streamlined processes save time and resources for both government and businesses.
- Level playing field: Helps smaller businesses compete with larger, more resourced companies.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Limited resources: No additional funding may hinder effective implementation.
- Potential for ambiguity: Defining "plain language" can be subjective and lead to disputes.
- Increased administrative burden: Federal agencies may face initial challenges in rewriting notices.
- Enforcement challenges: Ensuring compliance across all agencies could be difficult.
- Unintended consequences: Overly simplified language might omit crucial details.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the spirit of promoting the general welfare, as stated in the Preamble of the US Constitution, by facilitating small business participation in government contracts. Congress's authority to enact this legislation stems from Article I, Section 8, which grants it the power to make laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers, including regulating commerce and providing for the common defense and general welfare. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).