H.R.789 - Transparency and Predictability in Small Business Opportunities Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.789, the "Transparency and Predictability in Small Business Opportunities Act," aims to enhance transparency and support for small businesses in federal contracting. It mandates the Small Business Administration (SBA) to issue rules regarding cancelled covered solicitations, requiring disclosure of cancellation justifications and reissuance plans. The bill also amends the Small Business Act to assist small businesses in identifying similar contracting opportunities when solicitations are cancelled.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to increased transparency in federal procurement processes, specifically regarding cancelled solicitations. Small businesses should benefit from improved access to information and assistance in finding alternative contracting opportunities. No additional funds are authorized, so the impact will depend on the SBA's ability to implement the rules effectively within existing resources.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Transparency: Requires disclosure of reasons for cancelling solicitations.
- Improved Information: Provides information on plans to reissue cancelled solicitations.
- Assistance for Small Businesses: Directs the SBA to help small businesses find similar opportunities.
- Better Resource Allocation: Aims to reduce wasted effort on bids for cancelled solicitations.
- Level Playing Field: Promotes fairness in federal contracting for small businesses.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- No Additional Funding: Implementation relies on existing resources, potentially limiting effectiveness.
- Limited Scope: Focuses solely on cancelled solicitations, not broader procurement issues.
- Potential Bureaucracy: New rules could create additional administrative burdens.
- Dependence on Agency Compliance: Effectiveness depends on agencies' willingness to comply with disclosure requirements.
- Uncertain Impact: The actual impact on small business success is difficult to predict.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Constitution by promoting the general welfare through supporting small businesses, which can contribute to economic growth and stability. Congress has the power to regulate commerce and enact laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers (Article I, Section 8). The Act does not appear to infringe on 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).