Agencies would need written reasons to require degrees in federal contract bids
Passed both chambersH.R. 5235Latest action
Sponsor: Nancy Mace · Representative · SC
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Skills-Based Federal Contracting Act of 2025
119th Congress
Topics: Government & democracy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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Federal agencies could not set minimum education requirements for contract workers without a contracting officer's written justification.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
The bill would bar federal agencies from including a minimum education requirement in a request for contract bids unless the contracting officer writes a justification. The justification must explain why the agency's needs can't be met without the requirement and how the requirement ensures those needs are met. The rule also covers requirements that let experience replace a degree or that accept a mix of education and experience.
Who does it affect?
Federal contracting officers, who write the requests, and businesses that bid on federal work, including staffing and technology firms that propose workers for government projects. Job seekers at or applying to federal contractors could also be affected.
Why does it matter?
Job qualifications listed in contract bids could rely less on degrees. Education requirements would not be banned, but agencies would have to put their reasons in writing when they use them.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Based on the “Reported to Senate” text of Sep 14, 2026.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedSep 9, 2025
- House committee
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's deskYou are here · Sep 30, 2026
Right now: both chambers have passed it. It goes to the president next.
Latest action: — Passed Senate without amendment by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S5295)