S.1591 - Acquisition Reform and Cost Assessment Act of 2025; ARCA Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Acquisition Reform and Cost Assessment Act of 2025 (ARCA Act of 2025) aims to reorganize the acquisition structure of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and establish a Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation within the department. This includes creating an Assistant Secretary for Acquisition and Innovation, defining major and non-major acquisition programs, and implementing independent verification and validation processes. The bill also addresses other transaction authority, advance market commitments, and the development of an internship pipeline for contracting officers.
Expected Effects
The ARCA Act is likely to streamline the VA's acquisition processes, improve cost assessment and program evaluation, and foster innovation in healthcare delivery for veterans. It will also lead to greater oversight and accountability in the VA's acquisition programs. The act will also create new positions within the VA, such as the Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation, and Deputy Assistant Secretaries.
Potential Benefits
- Improved efficiency in VA acquisition processes.
- Enhanced cost control and program evaluation.
- Increased innovation in healthcare technologies and services for veterans.
- Greater transparency and accountability in major acquisition programs.
- Development of a skilled workforce in acquisition and contracting.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for bureaucratic delays during the reorganization phase.
- Risk of increased costs associated with independent verification and validation processes.
- Possible limitations on flexibility due to stricter oversight and compliance requirements.
- Challenges in attracting and retaining qualified personnel for new positions.
- Potential for conflicts of interest in independent verification and validation contracts.
Constitutional Alignment
The ARCA Act appears to align with the constitutional mandate to "provide for the common Defence" and "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). By improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the VA, the act seeks to better serve veterans, who have contributed to national security. The act's focus on government spending and resource allocation also aligns with Congress's power of the purse (Article I, Section 9).
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).