To amend title 10, United States Code, to require payments to contractors for subcontracting with Pacific Insular Area concerns, and for other purposes.
Impact
If enacted, HB 9453 is expected to create a significant impact on the local economies of the Pacific Insular Areas by providing financial incentives for contractors who engage with local businesses. The intended outcome is to stimulate economic growth and provide jobs in these areas, which often face economic challenges. Furthermore, it imposes a reporting requirement for the Administrator of the Small Business Administration and the Director of the Department of Defense Office of Small Business Programs, ensuring accountability and evaluation of the program’s effectiveness in subsequent years.
Summary
House Bill 9453 aims to amend Title 10 of the United States Code, specifically adding provisions to facilitate payments to prime contractors who subcontract with concerns located in the Pacific Insular Areas, which include the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, and Guam. The bill empowers the Secretary of Defense to authorize payments equal to five percent of the total proposed value of each subcontract with a Pacific Insular Area concern. This initiative is aimed at boosting economic opportunities within these regions by encouraging small businesses to engage in government contracting.
Contention
While the bill has the potential to support economic growth, notable points of contention may arise regarding the criteria and conditions of the payments. Some stakeholders may argue about the fairness of prioritizing certain businesses based on their geographic location or ownership structure. Additionally, concerns may be raised regarding bureaucratic complexities involved in the application process for payments and whether these measures effectively lead to sustainable economic benefits for the communities targeted. The financial viability and administrative burden on contractors could also be subjects of debate within the legislative discussions around the bill.
To amend title 10, United States Code, to permit the Secretary concerned to furnish mortuary services in the case of certain citizens of the United States who die outside of the United States, and for other purposes.
To amend section 5336 of title 31, United States Code, to provide existing small businesses with an additional year to file beneficial ownership information, and for other purposes.