119-HR-6916 Journalist Public Summary

Headline Summary

Bars individuals convicted of specific federal program‑related felonies from getting new federal contracts, grants, or assistance for three years, unless an agency issues a written waiver.

What It Does

- Requires that any individual convicted of listed federal offenses tied to government contracts, grants, loans, or other aid be added to the System for Award Management (SAM) Exclusions list for three years. - Directs the Attorney General to notify the General Services Administration (GSA) after such convictions so GSA can promptly update SAM. - Allows an agency head to grant a case‑by‑case written waiver, with notice to Congress. - Clarifies this new rule does not limit other enforcement tools (like suspension or debarment) already available under federal procurement and grants rules. - Orders implementation guidance within one year of enactment.

Why It Matters

Supporters say it closes gaps so people who defraud or abuse federal programs can’t quickly turn around and win new federal business or aid. Practically, it could change eligibility for small contractors and nonprofit leaders if an owner or key individual is convicted of a covered offense. Communities could see stronger safeguards on taxpayer funds, while affected individuals would face a defined, three‑year exclusion period.

Who’s For It

• Bill sponsors: introduced by Rep. Keith Self, with Rep. Randall as co‑leader, signaling at least some bipartisan interest in tightening anti‑fraud rules.
• Likely supporters: fiscal conservatives focused on waste, fraud, and abuse; some good‑government watchdogs; agencies and inspectors general who favor clear, automatic consequences after convictions.
• Their case: automatic listing creates a bright‑line consequence, protects taxpayer dollars, and complements (not replaces) existing suspension/debarment tools.

Who’s Against It

• Potential civil‑liberties and reentry advocates: worry the bill sweeps in people who enter deferred adjudication or similar programs (counted as “convicted” here), raising due‑process and rehabilitation concerns.
• Some nonprofit and small‑business groups: fear collateral harm if one individual’s conviction blocks an otherwise capable team from federal work or aid.
• Critics’ case: automatic exclusions reduce discretion, risk over‑breadth, and may duplicate existing, case‑specific debarment processes that already weigh evidence and mitigating factors.

What’s Next

Status as of March 18, 2026: the House Oversight Committee held a markup. Next typical steps are a committee vote on whether to report the bill to the full House, possible House floor consideration, and then Senate action if it passes the House.

Key Details at a Glance

Covered people

Individuals convicted of specified federal felonies tied to contracts, grants, loans, or other federal assistance

Consequence

Automatic placement on SAM Exclusions list (no new awards) for 3 years

Waiver

Agency head may grant a written waiver; must notify Congress

Administration

Attorney General notifies GSA; GSA updates SAM

Other tools

Does not limit suspensions/debarments already allowed under federal rules

Guidance timeline

Within 1 year of enactment