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 improve transparency and support for small businesses when federal solicitations are cancelled. It requires the Small Business Administration (SBA) to issue rules for disclosing information about cancelled covered solicitations, including justifications for cancellation and plans for reissuance.
The bill also amends the Small Business Act to require Directors of Offices of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization to assist small businesses in identifying similar contracting opportunities when a solicitation is cancelled and not intended to be reissued. The Act specifies that no additional funds are authorized to carry out the Act.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is increased transparency in federal contracting processes, specifically regarding cancelled solicitations. Small businesses may be better informed about why solicitations are cancelled and have improved access to assistance in finding alternative opportunities. This could lead to more efficient use of resources by small businesses and potentially increase their participation in federal contracting.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency in federal contracting.
- Improved access to information for small businesses regarding cancelled solicitations.
- Enhanced support for small businesses in finding alternative contracting opportunities.
- Potentially more efficient use of resources by small businesses.
- May encourage greater participation of small businesses in federal contracting.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The bill does not authorize additional appropriations, potentially limiting the resources available for implementation.
- The effectiveness of the bill depends on the SBA's ability to issue clear and enforceable rules.
- There may be administrative costs associated with implementing the new requirements.
- The bill's impact may be limited if federal agencies do not adequately comply with the disclosure requirements.
- The definition of 'covered solicitation' might be too narrow, excluding some solicitations where transparency would be beneficial.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce and make laws necessary and proper for carrying out its powers. By promoting transparency and supporting small businesses in federal contracting, the bill can be argued to facilitate commerce and economic activity. The bill 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).