Florida Rep. Byron Donalds (R) has reintroduced The Bipartisan Value Over Cost Act, a bill that aims to contract competition, reduce regulatory burdens on small businesses, and modernize federal procurement.
The bill seeks to address inefficiencies in the General Services Administration’s (GSA) “Lowest Overall Cost Alternative Standard,” which the Florida Republican argues has led to higher costs and government waste.
In a statement, Rep. Donalds address that “it’s time to Make Government Efficient Again.”
“The General Services Administration’s (GSA) ‘Lowest Overall Cost Alternative Standard’ is burdensome, has resulted in higher costs, government waste, and we need change,” he warned. By reintroducing the Bipartisan Value Over Cost Act, he hopes “to solve this problem once and for all.” "Last Congress, this commonsense legislation was passed with unanimous support in the U.S. House of Representatives, and I once again look forward [to] the successful passage of this proposal in the 119th Congress,” he concluded.
The bill will increase contractual flexibility, provide clarity for acquisition stakeholders, and maximize the federal government’s ability to procure modern technology. Through reducing regulatory hurdles, it will also empower small businesses and ensure the government is securing the best value rather than just the lowest price.
Efforts to reform government contracting and procurement have long been a priority for lawmakers seeking to reduce waste, modernize government operations, and promote economic growth.
If the bill passes, it could have significant implications for government spending, small businesses, and the efficiency of federal agencies.
The bill also comes at a time when Rep. Donalds is hinting at a potential gubernatorial run. The staunch supporter of President Donald Trump (R) could face potential gubernatorial candidates in First Lady Casey DeSantis (R) and Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson (R), who are also expected to launch their campaigns. However, in the polls, they are trailing Rep. Donalds.
