Senators push contractor back pay legislation

      A group of 38 Democratic senators and one Republican senator wrote to the Senate Appropriations Committee on March 8 asking to advance legislation to provide back pay for federal contractors affected by the government shutdown.

      Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-MD, released the letter, which asks for vendor back pay funding to be included in upcoming appropriations bills.

      Sen. Susan Collins, R-ME, was the only GOP lawmaker on board.

Read Sen. Collins' letter at: https://bit.ly/2Hj7SuC

Rep. Steve King taken off Small Biz Committee

      As a reprimand for his recent remarks defending “white supremacy,” Republican leaders have removed Rep. Steve King, R-IA, from his committee assignments, including on the House Small Business Committee.

      King previously served on the small business panel’s Contracting and Workforce Subcommittee and its Agriculture, Energy and Trade Subcommittee.

Read more at:
Washington Post story: https://wapo.st/2HugjCs

Update on Trump’s 2nd “Buy American” order

      President Trump recently signed an executive order with additional “Buy American” guidance and requirements. The order “encourages” use of goods, products and materials produced in the US for covered programs, primarily infrastructure projects. Each agency administering covered programs must submit information by May 31 on programs to target. Purchases of iron, aluminum and manufactured products made in the US are encouraged.

Read more at: Thompson Hine LLP blog entry: https://bit.ly/2EXHrXJ
National Law Review story: https://bit.ly/2EXHrXJ

Federal contract spend under Category Management reaches $144B

VA acquisition rated high risk

Trump asks for big budget cuts

2018 Regulations Review Pt. III

DOL prepares overtime rule

VA Med-Surg preferences

Column: The Evolution of a Successful Contractor

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