House Votes to Limit Sole-Source, Cost-Plus Contracts
Over objections from the White House and industry, the House overwhelmingly approved legislation designed to limit the use of sole-source and cost-reimbursement contracts.

SBA: Women’s Set-Aside May Start By Year-End
On the eve of a congressional hearing on the long-delayed set-aside for woman-owned businesses, SBA said it hopes to implement the program before the end of the year.

Industry Coalition Says Advisory Panel Proposals “A Step Backward”
A coalition of industry groups is urging the Bush administration and Congress to reject key recommendations of the Acquisition Advisory Panel.

Construction Companies Settle False Claims Charges
Two Michigan construction companies have agreed to pay $11.75 million to settle charges that they misrepresented their use of subcontractors in the Transportation Department’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program.

Agencies Told to Scrub Procurement Data
The Office of Federal Procurement Policy told agencies to verify the contract information they provide to the Federal Procurement Data System.

DOD Says "Performance Matters" in Award Fees
The Defense Department is developing policies to tighten controls over award fees to contractors, said Kenneth Krieg, undersecretary of Defense for acquisitions, technology and logistics.

Check Your Margins -- Paper, Not Profit
The Government Accountability Office says a contractor’s proposal can be rejected if the margins on its pages are too narrow.

Legal Issues: Independent Contractor or Employee?
The distinction between an employee and an independent contractor is determined by the right of control and supervision exerted by an employer.