Representative Nancy Mace's bill, the Allowing Contractors to Choose Employees for Select Skills Act (ACCESS Act), has passed out of committee and is one step away from reaching the House Floor for a vote. The ACCESS Act aims to prohibit minimum experience or educational requirements for proposed contractor personnel in government contract solicitations.
“We believe in empowering talent over credentials, and the ACCESS Act embodies this principle. By removing unnecessary degree barriers, we're not just opening doors, but unlocking a wealth of untapped potential,” said Rep. Nancy Mace. “It's about recognizing skills, not just diplomas, and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their educational background, has a fair shot at contributing to our nation's workforce and innovation landscape.”
The ACCESS Act amends Chapter 33 of title 41 to restrict the use of minimum education or experience requirements for proposed contractor personnel in federal contract solicitations, unless deemed necessary by the agency. In cases where such requirements are included, contracting officers must provide written justifications explaining why they are essential.
