Political Quotes

“I join Senator Thompson in introducing the Federal Emergency Procurement Flexibility Act. This bill will provide emergency contracting relief to Federal agencies in support of our Nation's fight against terrorism by allowing agencies to effectively buy what is needed to address the threats to our Nation. While the Federal procurement system has improved in the last decade, there are still many areas where changes should be made to support the current emergency. This bill provides for streamlining the contracting process to access new technology, provides for emergency authorities for small purchases, and maximizes the use of existing streamlined procurement authorities. The United States has some of the best ideas and technology in the world. To win the war on terrorism, the government needs to do all it can to gain access to this technology, much of which is located in the private sector. However, many firms, particularly in the biotechnology and information technology sectors, have been deterred from bidding on government contracts by the perception that government contracting is burdened with red tape and requirements. In this time of crisis, we can not afford to keep these businesses on the sidelines. To promote the participation of these firms in solving our homeland defense problems, this bill would authorize the use by federal agencies of 'other transactions' authority for research and development and prototype projects.”