We have noted in past posts that, in some cases, it may make sense to protest a solicitation evaluation or award decision at GAO simply to get a stay on the award. This is because, if you meet certain deadlines, a stay of award and performance is automatically placed on the procurement for the duration of the protest. Now, there are circumstances in which an agency can override this stay, but the burden is on the agency to show such an override is necessary. The Federal Circuit confirmed this is the case in Life Science Logistics, LLC v. United States, 172 F.4th 1357 (Fed. Cir. 2026), in which an agency tried to get the higher burden for a preliminary injunction placed on GAO protesters. This decision suggests that agencies may think more carefully about attempting overrides of stays going forward.
Continue readingCategory Archives: Federal Government Contracting
SmallGovCon Week in Review: May 25-29, 2026
Happy Friday! We hope you had a great week and are finishing the month of May strong. I was recently in Chicago for a family trip. Based on how much people were enjoying the weekend in Chicago, it’s clear that Memorial Day is the kickoff to summer. Summer plans are in full swing, but the news for federal contractors is also busy.
This week in federal government contracting news, there were updates on AI reporting, cybersecurity compliance, and an update to the classified information review process.
SmallGovCon Week in Review: May 18-22, 2026
This Memorial Day, we take time to reflect on the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of those who gave their lives serving our country. Their selfless dedication to protecting our freedoms and defending our nation will always be remembered with the utmost gratitude and respect. We further wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to all veterans and military families who have carried the burdens of service with strength and honor. It is because of those sacrifices we are able to enjoy the liberties and opportunities we too often take for granted. Today, we honor their legacy, remember the fallen, and express our deepest appreciation to those who have served and continue to serve our nation with pride.
Continue readingSmallGovCon Week in Review: May 11-15, 2026
Happy Friday. It’s end of school time in many parts of the country, as students move on a grade or graduate from college. College graduation is a big deal in a college town like ours. Congratulations to all the graduates. And speaking of changes, the federal government contracting world certainly hasn’t slowed down this week. Stories included the large proposed defense budget along with efforts at saving taxpayer money in the defense budget and elsewhere in the federal government.
Continue readingProposed Updates to DFARS Regarding Foreign Ownership, Control, or Influence
It sometimes takes a little time for federal statutes to be reflected in federal regulations. Recent proposed updates to DFARS regarding Foreign Ownership, Control, or Influence (FOCI) is a good example of this. These updates, meant to implement sections of the National Defense Authorization Acts of 2020 and 2021, are meant to mitigate risks related to FOCI or beneficial ownership. Today, we shall explore these updates and what they mean for federal contractors.
Continue readingSmallGovCon Week in Review: May 4-8, 2026
Happy Friday! Mother’s Day is this Sunday, and it’s a good reminder to slow down and thank the moms, grandmas, stepmoms, and mother figures who somehow keep everything moving. Whether you’re planning a get together, making a phone call, sending flowers, or just spending extra time together, we hope they will feel extra special. Happy Mother’s Day!
This week in federal government contracting included a focus on fixed-price contracts, an update on 2024 spending, and new regulatory changes.
Continue readingEO Maximizes Fixed-Price Over Cost-Reimbursement Contracts
The White House recently released Executive Order 14402 titled Promoting Efficiency, Accountability, and Performance in Federal Contracting (EO 14402). EO 14402 was released on April 30, 2026. This EO requires agencies to use fixed-price contracts over cost-reimbursement wherever possible. Because of its potential impact on federal contractors, let’s walk through the highlights in this post.
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