Small Business Administration Faces Relocation Under New Federal Legislation!
Time for small business for some changes! Actually things just got political at the Small Business Administration as the House has passed a controversial bill “The Save SBA from Sanctuary Cities Act ” that would force the agency to relocate its regional, district, and local offices from “sanctuary jurisdictions.” Yep, that means SBA offices in cities like Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, NYC, and Seattle could be packing their bags.
Why the move? According to supporters, it’s about aligning federal offices with immigration enforcement policies. House Small Business Committee Chair Roger Williams says this legislation backs the Trump administration’s stance to cut support for cities that limit cooperation with federal immigration agents. “Rule of law” is the rallying cry.
But not everyone’s on board. Nydia Velázquez (D-NY) fired back during floor debate, calling the bill disruptive, wasteful, and politically motivated. It adds more confusion and disruption for the people we are supposed to be helping according to her and many in the small business community are inclined to agree.While the vote mostly split along party lines , a few moderate Democrats broke ranks to support it, and interestingly, some Republicans representing sanctuary areas voted against it. So, yeah it’s complicated.
What does this mean for small business owners? Well, if one is in one of those six major cities, the SBA office you rely on could be moving. That means potential delays, disruptions, and a lot of uncertainty for entrepreneurs already juggling enough.Toelaborate, this is part of a broader trend where policy and politics increasingly shape where and how federal services operate. And for small businesses, that means staying informed and flexible is more important than ever.
So all about immigration? No, it’s about access, resources, and how politics is rewriting the small business playbook in real time.
📜 COMPLIANCE AND REGULATION UPDATES
On June 6, 2025, the House passed the Save SBA from Sanctuary Cities Act (H.R. 2931) with a 211-199 vote, shaking up federal compliance in a big way! This legislation ensures the Small Business Administration (SBA) relocates offices from cities dodging federal compliance on immigration laws.
SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler already targeted Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, New York City, and Seattle for their lax policies. The bill defines “sanctuary jurisdictions” as areas limiting federal compliance with immigration enforcement, codifying President Trump’s push for stricter federal compliance. But it has some other sides as well. Critics like argue it disrupts small businesses and wastes taxpayer money, but moderates like Rep. Henry Cuellar backed it. Meanwhile, some Republicans, like Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, voted against it, citing local concerns. This move aligns with Trump’s mass deportation plans, spotlighting federal compliance as a hot topic in the US government contracting industry!
OTA Procurement Woes
A $1 billion Army contract dispute has left contractors scratching their heads. Judge Richard Hertling’s May 2025 ruling, siding with Accenture over Groundswell, declared a “jurisdictional blackout” during the OTA procurement prototype phase. Which means protests can’t be filed then. Groundswell’s late challenge to the Army’s OTA procurement process was dismissed, as Hertling noted OTA procurement isn’t a “procurement” until the production phase. Confused? You’re not alone! Other judges disagree, and the Federal Circuit hasn’t clarified when OTA procurement protests can happen. Hertling suggested U.S. District Courts or Congress might hold the key, but for now, OTA procurement remains a murky maze. With OTA procurement use rising, contractors are clamoring for clarity. Will Congress or the courts untangle this web? Stay tuned for the next chapter in this OTA procurement saga!
🔓 Importance of Networking in the Government Contracting World!
Government contracting is a big field. Every year, billions of dollars are spent by the government on goods and services. Many companies compete for these contracts. Networking is one of the best ways to stand out. It can make the difference between winning and missing a contract.
Networking helps you meet the right people. It builds trust. A recent survey shows that over 85% of government contractors say that networking has helped grow their business. Statistics show that companies with strong networks win up to 40% more contracts than those without. The numbers speak for themselves.
Simple face-to-face meetings are important. Conferences and workshops let you exchange ideas. You can shake hands and learn from others. These short encounters may lead to big opportunities. A strong personal connection goes a long way in this line of work.
Yet, networking is not only about meeting people in person. Social media has changed the game. Online platforms like LinkedIn make it easy to connect with government officials and industry experts. Many people now use Twitter and Facebook groups to discuss government contracting trends. These online spaces allow you to learn, share, and grow your network quickly.
Social media is a powerful tool. It makes communication fast and affordable. You can join groups where contractors share tips and advice. Experts often post updates about new regulations or contract opportunities. These posts help you stay informed. With a strong online presence, you show that you are active and engaged. This builds your professional image.
To succeed online, keep your profile professional. Update your information often. Join relevant groups and forums. Share your successes and lessons learned. Respond to posts and questions. Simple actions like these can lead to valuable contacts. This low-cost method has helped many professionals boost their careers.
Traditional networking and online networking work well together. In-person events build deep and personal trust. They give you a chance to show your personality. Meanwhile, social media keeps you connected every day. It is like having a 24/7 networking tool in your pocket. Use both methods to get the best results.
Some people feel shy about networking. It may seem like a big challenge at first. But every chat is a step forward. Think of it like meeting new classmates. You never know which conversation can lead to an important connection. A friendly smile and a nod can ease tension. In fact, a little humor goes a long way. Imagine government contracting as a big school reunion where old friends become new business partners.
Humor can also break the ice. A light-hearted joke in a meeting or an online post can warm up a room. It can help you be memorable. Working on your small talk skills will show you made the effort to connect. These small exchanges add up.
Here are some useful links to help you grow your network:
• The Small Business Association offers tips and advice for government contractors.
• GovCon Wire provides news and articles about industry trends.
• LinkedIn is great for connecting with industry professionals.
Networking does more than connect you with contracts. It gives you insight into industry trends. You see what works for others. You learn what challenges they face. This knowledge equips you to improve your own business. It also helps you stay ahead of new regulations and opportunities.
In the government contracting world, every contact matters. A strong network gives you an edge over competitors. It opens new doors, builds trust, and creates opportunities. You do not need fancy words or long speeches. Keep your messages clear and honest.
Network one step at a time. Use simple strategies and share real insights. Mix face-to-face meetings with online connections. Stay active on social media. Work hard and build genuine relationships. Over time, you will see the results. In government contracting, your network is a key to success.
💰 Aviation Systems Engineering Co. Lands a $294M Splash!
Talk about making waves! Aviation Systems Engineering Co. (ASEC), based in Lexington Park, Maryland, just snagged a whopping $294 million contract to keep our skies and seas submarine-free. Yes, they’re the brains behind the Navy’s airborne anti-submarine warfare systems, and they’ll be prototyping, producing, tweaking, and sustaining these high-tech systems through 2030. That’s a long-term relationship if we’ve ever seen one.
This isn’t your average “tinker with a drone” contract. We’re talking full lifecycle support for naval and Marine Corps aircraft, plus some international and inter-agency flair thrown in for good measure. It’s like the Avengers of engineering contracts: one team, many missions, a whole lot of tech. And wondering where the magic happens? Actually ,it’s everywhere. From California to Maryland, Pennsylvania to Florida, and even up to Whidbey Island, Washington, ASEC is going coast-to-coast with maybe a few scenic detours. Basically, if there’s a runway and a radar, they’re there.But one thing is really interesting! This was a competitive bid, and ASEC was the only one to submit an offer. Bold move. Pays off.
Congrats to ASEC,this is a huge win and a major nod to their deep bench of expertise. Just remember next time when seeing something mysterious flying overhead and not hearing about any submarines sneaking around, probably have these folks to thank.
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🗣️ UPCOMING EVENTS
Event: Limitations on Subcontracting: Key Updates and Tips for Compliance
Date: Oct 02, 2025
Event: Unlocking the Secrets of Debriefings, Government Evaluation of Proposals and Protests
Date: Sep 28, 2025
