Bill would require plain language in federal small business contract notices
Passed one chamberH.R. 787Latest action
Sponsor: Nick LaLota · Representative · NY
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Plain Language in Contracting Act
119th Congress
Topics: Jobs & the economy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
The plain-language version comes first. The official text is always the reference.
HR 787 would require federal agencies to write clearer, better-organized contract notices for small businesses.
45-second read · 5 questions answered below
What does this do?
HR 787, the "Plain Language in Contracting Act," requires federal agencies to write contracting notices for small businesses in plain, easy-to-understand language and organize them using best practices. Notices would also need relevant key words so small business owners can search for and find them more easily. The Small Business Administration must issue rules on how agencies should follow these requirements within 90 days of passage.
Who does it affect?
Federal agencies that publish contract notices, and small business owners who rely on those notices to find government contracting opportunities.
Why does it matter?
Clearer, better-labeled notices could make it easier for small businesses without large legal or compliance staffs to understand and access federal contracts, though agencies must meet the new standards without additional funding.
What does it cost, and who pays?
- No new funding provided
- agencies use existing budgets and staff
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJan 28, 2025
- House committee
- House vote
- SenateYou are here · Jun 4, 2025
- The president's desk
Right now: it passed the House, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.