On the recordJuly 24, 2017
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 2006, the VA Procurement Efficiency and Transparency Act. This legislation will require VA to record any costs or savings it incurs as a result of using competitive procedures. The reporting requirement is limited to contracts reported in the Federal procurement data system and will ensure increased transparency in the VA. It also requires VA to use standardized contracting templates throughout the entire VA. This will create an efficient system for VA contracting officers so they are not wasting man-hours developing multiple documents to award VA contracts. Anyone who has been a Member of Congress and has dealt with VA contracts knows how difficult, confusing, and just, quite honestly, frustrating this is. So having standardized forms will improve oversight of these contracts so that all VA employees and contractors follow the same requirements for the same type of contract. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this smart legislation, efficiency in government, and help provide care in a more timely manner. Mr. Speaker, I urge its support, and I reserve the balance of my time.
