FCW Insider Special Report: Acquisition
A look at recent news and trends in federal government acquisition from FCW's reporters and editors.
DOD eyes large COVID payments for contractors
Ellen Lord, the Defense Department's chief buyer, said the organization is considering lump-sum payments for COVID-19 claims to contractors sidelined because of the pandemic, rather than negotiating contract-by-contract.
Lawmakers push back on STARS shutoff date
Changes the GSA made to one of its most popular governmentwide small business set-aside acquisition vehicles draws congressional scrutiny
GSA working on Alliant 2 Small Business replacement
The agency is moving ahead with a replacement for a troubled small business government wide acquisitions contract.
DHS seeks permanent flexible acquisition authorities
Temporary acquisition authorities that aid the Department of Homeland Security in getting innovative commercial technologies and goods in response to the COVID-19 crisis should be lasting tools in the department's acquisition toolbox, the agency's top acquisition official told a Senate panel.
Agencies improving contracting forecasts
Second survey of dozens of federal agencies shows they’re improving their contracting forecast data making it easier for contractors to follow, according to contracting group.
GSA rolls out IT acquisition learning portal
The GSA's new IT acquisition portal offers a range of training on how to use and buy new technologies.
OMB says fourth quarter spending spree can help boost economy
The director of the Office of Management and Budget reminded agencies to keep category management, acquisition flexibilities and quick vendor payments in mind during the upcoming busy fourth quarter federal buying season.
Drill Down: China tech regs
Pentagon issues contract guidance on China tech ban
The Defense Department outlines how it will implement the upcoming government ban on doing business with companies that use certain Chinese telecommunications equipment
Vendors seek clarity on 889 rules
Federal contractors are still facing uncertainty about new rules to get rid of Chinese-made gear.
Understanding the DOD's ban on some China-made telecom gear
FCW spoke with two attorneys specializing in federal contracting to get some clarity on the fast approaching government ban on contracting with companies that use certain telecom equipment and services.
As Huawei ban looms, waivers are an option
Waivers for a looming federal rule prohibiting agencies from signing new contracts with companies that use a list of Chinese-made communications gear are only a temporary fix, says one expert.
U.S. imposes new restrictions on Huawei, semiconductor industry
The Department of Commerce is tightening rules targeting the Chinese telecom's supply chain around computer processing chips and restricting sales of chips made with U.S. technology.