FAR Review and Reform – Streamlining Federal Acquisition Regulations

Ongoing discussions about reforming the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) have gained momentum as the federal government seeks to improve efficiency and reduce burdens on contractors. These proposed changes aim to modernize outdated policies, increase competition, and align regulations with evolving government priorities.

Challenges Posed by Existing FAR Provisions

Many contractors, particularly small businesses, have expressed concerns about the complexity and administrative burden of the current FAR framework. Some of the key challenges include:

• Regulatory Complexity: The FAR consists of thousands of pages, making compliance difficult for new and small businesses.


• Procurement Delays: Lengthy and rigid processes often slow down contract awards, delaying projects and increasing costs.


• Small Business Barriers: Some requirements inadvertently disadvantage small businesses competing against larger, well-established firms.


• Inconsistent Application: Different agencies may interpret and apply FAR clauses inconsistently, leading to compliance uncertainties.

Proposed Changes and Their Potential Impact

Recent efforts to reform the FAR focus on several key areas that could reshape the contracting landscape:

• Simplified Procurement for Small Businesses: Proposed changes may streamline small business set-asides and simplify the certification process.


• Increased Use of Emerging Technologies: The government is considering integrating AI and automation to speed up procurement and improve transparency.


• Enhanced Cybersecurity Requirements: Contractors may need to meet stricter cybersecurity compliance measures in line with recent federal initiatives.


• Reduction of Unnecessary Compliance Burdens: Efforts to eliminate redundant reporting and administrative requirements aim to ease contractor workload.

How Contractors Can Stay Informed and Compliant

As FAR reforms progress, contractors should take proactive steps to stay informed and ensure compliance:

• Monitor Official Updates: Regularly check SAM.gov and USAspending.gov for policy changes and new requirements.


• Engage with Industry Groups: Join associations like the National Contract Management Association (NCMA) for updates and advocacy.


• Leverage Compliance Resources: Use tools like the FAR Council website to track regulatory changes.


• Seek Legal and Consulting Support: Work with federal contracting consultants to navigate evolving regulations.

FAR reform presents both challenges and opportunities for federal contractors. While changes may introduce new compliance requirements, they also aim to create a more efficient and competitive procurement process. By staying informed and adapting to regulatory shifts, businesses can position themselves for long-term success in federal contracting.

For the latest updates, visit SAM.gov and USAspending.gov.