Tomeka B. Scales, Ph.D.
Director, Media Engagement & Communications
703.875.8974
media@pscouncil.org

PSC Submits Comments on SBA’s Rule to Eliminate Self-Certification for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses

Arlington, Va. (July 9, 2024) -- The Professional Services Council (PSC) has submitted comments on the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) direct final rule regarding the elimination of self-certification for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs). The rule, as published in the Federal Register on June 6, 2024 (RIN 3245-AI10; Docket No. SBA-2024-0003), implements section 864 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024.

PSC’s comments reflect member feedback and concerns regarding the rule’s implementation, particularly its effective date of August 5, 2024, and the anticipated pause in the SBA’s VetCert website operations. The SBA’s website indicates that initial application submissions will be on hold starting August 1, 2024, due to system upgrades, with an expected completion date in September 2024.

Executive Vice President of Policy, S, Stephanie Kostro, emphasized, “Our members are committed to supporting U.S. Government missions, and the abrupt pause in the VetCert application process poses a significant challenge to SDVOSBs seeking certification. This delay will impact over 20,000 SDVOSBs, potentially extending beyond the October 1 deadline specified in the law.”

PSC’s recommendations include:

1. Clarification on Timelines: SBA should provide precise timelines for the system upgrade and the certification process to help federal agencies and contractors plan accordingly.
2. Grace Period Details: Clear guidance on the grace period for SDVOSBs applying by December 22, 2024, including the sufficiency of self-certification evidence and the adequacy of application submissions.
3. Ongoing Solicitations: Address the status of SDVOSBs that self-certified at proposal submission for ongoing solicitations and the requirements for re-certification or initial certification at the next option period post-August 1, 2024.

PSC values the SBA’s engagement with industry on critical issues impacting national security, defense, and economic well-being. It is important to continue dialogue and collaboration to ensure a smooth transition for SDVOSBs during this certification change.

View full letter.

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PSC is the voice of the federal government services and solutions industry, with more than 400 small, medium, and large member companies that support federal agency missions and functions. 

Learn more at: www.pscouncil.org