February 26, 2010

Dear Tamara:

Thank you for contacting me with your concern about the delayed implementation of the Women's Federal Procurement Program. I welcome the opportunity to respond to you on this important issue. As you know, the Small Business Reauthorization Act of 2000 put in place Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Set-Asides for requirements in an industry where WOSB are substantially underrepresented and limited to contracts not exceeding $3 million for services and $5 million for manufacturing.

As a result of delays and failed attempts at establishing regulations to implement a Women's Federal Procurement Program, the Small Business Administration has yet to incorporate these changes established in law.

In response to your message, I contacted the House Committee on Small Business to look into your concern.  It is my understanding that the Obama Administration is currently drafting regulations to implement the Women's Federal Procurement Program, though committee staff is unsure as to when the regulations will be submitted for public comment.

Additionally, although the Congress must approve the President's proposed budget and may make changes, the budget did not include funding for the implementation of this program despite public statements of support for it.

Please be assured that I will keep your specific thoughts close in mind as funding for FY2011 is debated in Congress.

Again, thank you for contacting me.  If you should have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to let me know.

Sincerely,

Duncan Hunter

Member of Congress