Happy International Women’s Day From SmallGovCon!

We at SmallGovCon just wanted to take a minute to wish all the amazing women out there a Happy International Women’s Day! And we would like to send a special shout-out to all of our WOSBs and EDWOSBs while we are at it!

Here’s to commemorating women’s history of achievement and celebrating the bright future to come!

SmallGovCon Week in Review: Mar. 1 – Mar. 5, 2021

Next week is spring break in these parts. The weather should be great and I hope all of our readers are able to enjoy it! It’s also getting down to the finals of the college basketball season. It won’t be the same as last year for the KU Jayhawks, but they should still have a good showing in the tournament.

This week saw some important updates in federal contracting, such as a prediction on defense spending under the Biden administration, a delay of independent contractor status rules under FLSA, and DoD employee ethics reminders.

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Event: Service Contract Act & Davis-Bacon Act “101”

The Biden administration recently announced plans to increase enforcement of the federal prevailing wage laws for contractors–the Service Contract Act and Davis-Bacon Act. Non-compliance with these laws can be grounds for severe sanctions. (Heck, the DOJ just announced another False Claims Act settlement in a prevailing wage case yesterday!)

If you’re new to the world of prevailing wage laws, or just need a refresher, please join me on March 18 for an introductory “101” look at the SCA and DBA, hosted by the South-West Texas Border Small Business Development Center Network. It’s easy to register: just click here.

Hope to see you on the 18th!

GAO Concludes Expired SAM Registration in Invitation for Bid Cannot be Rejected as Nonresponsive

A company that is nonresponsive to an Invitation for Bid (IFB), or any solicitation for that matter, will usually be rejected for consideration for award. All too often, when a nonresponsive finding is made, there is no coming back.

A recent decision from GAO shines light on what it means to be “nonresponsive” and “not responsible.” GAO confirmed that SAM registration submitting annual certifications are matters of responsibility, not responsiveness.

What is the difference? Let’s look at the two terms and their practical effect on a company’s ability to cure deficiencies.

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SmallGovCon Week in Review: Feb. 22 – Feb. 26, 2021

This weekend will get into the 60s, so I’ll be spending some time outdoors soaking up the nice weather. Hope everyone is able to enjoy some nice weather too. As you prepare for your weekend, stay up to date with some of these key government contracting updates.

This week’s stories include continued use of LPTA, increased enforcement of wage regulations, and SBA’s audit plans.

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