Bourdeaux Ensures Small Businesses Have a Seat at the Table for Defense Procurement

Press Release

United States Congresswoman Carolyn Bourdeaux (GA-07) successfully passed legislation to ensure small businesses have access to assistance when hoping to do business with the federal government. The legislation was included as an amendment in this year's National Defense Authorization Act. The bill passed the House in a bipartisan vote of 316 to 113.

Congresswoman Bourdeaux's amendment requires the Department of Defense to report on recommendations from the Government Accountability Office to improve the Procurement Technical Assistance Program. This step is needed to ensure this program is implementing best practices to help small businesses.

Congresswoman Carolyn Bourdeaux said, "This week, I voted to keep our commitment to those who serve our country. My amendment ensures that the Department of Defense is implementing best practices and recommendations to improve its Procurement Technical Assistance Program and serve businesses, especially small businesses, who are interested in contracting opportunities with the federal government. This year's National Defense Authorization Act meets our obligation to the men and women serving in the United States Armed Forces. Investing in our military members is a critical step in keeping America safe."

Congresswoman Carolyn Bourdeaux cosponsored two amendments that were included in the NDAA. The bipartisan Schneider/Williams amendment statutorily authorizes the Boots to Business (B2B) program which helps transitioning service members start and grow their businesses. The Schrader amendment tasks the Secretary of Defense to prepare a report to Congress on programs funded by the Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) account, ensuring a full accounting of Americans' hard-earned tax dollars.

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