H.R. 1118Passed one chamberGovernment & democracy
Bill would let agencies pick "best value" over lowest-cost bids
Data as of July 23, 2026
The Value Over Cost Act lets federal agencies choose the best-value option, not just the cheapest, in GSA schedule purchases.AI-decoded45-second read · 4 questions answered below
Decoded
AI-decodedWhat does this do?
HR 1118, the "Value Over Cost Act," changes federal procurement rules so agencies buying through GSA's multiple award schedule program can choose the "best value" option instead of being required to pick the "lowest overall cost." The GSA Administrator must determine that this choice serves the government's best interests, and the same change applies to both general federal purchasing law and Department of Defense purchasing law.
Who does it affect?
The bill affects federal agencies and purchasing officers, government contractors bidding on GSA schedule contracts, and the Department of Defense. Taxpayers, who fund federal procurement, are also affected.
Why does it matter?
The change gives purchasing officers more flexibility to weigh quality, reliability, or long-term savings, not just price, which could make higher-priced contractors more competitive. It could also reduce strict cost controls and introduce more subjective decision-making in awarding contracts.
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- House committee
- House vote
- Senate — You are here
- President's desk
Right now: it passed the House and now goes to the Senate. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
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Official title
Value Over Cost Act of 2026
- Introduced:
- February 7, 2025
- Latest action:
- July 22, 2026
Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
Read the official bill on Congress.gov