FoRGED Act

# Summary of Defense Acquisition Reform Legislation This document presents a comprehensive legislative proposal for reforming defense acquisition processes and policies. The key themes and provisions include: ## Key Reforms 1. **Streamlining Acquisition Processes** - Repeal of numerous redundant budget line items and program elements - Establishment of new acquisition pathways (middle tier, software acquisition) - Simplification of procurement thresholds (increasing from $5M to $50M for simplified acquisitions) 2. **Enhancing Commercial Product Use** - Default determination that products/services are commercial unless otherwise determined - Removal of requirements for traditional defense contractors to follow certain regulations - New "consumption-based solutions" procurement model 3. **Promoting Competition** - Special treatment for nontraditional defense contractors - Program management office competition requiring separate program managers to compete - Modifications to allow greater use of commercial solutions openings 4. **Supply Chain Improvements** - Program for enhancing secondary sources and supply chain management - Industrial expansion program with specific funding requirements (2-3% of extramural budget) - Level of Repair Analysis considering battle damage and logistics factors 5. **Budget Structure Reform** - Review of budget account structure to align with portfolio acquisition executives - Removal of traditional research, development, test and evaluation; procurement; and operation and maintenance appropriations - New budgeting structure based on military service and capability areas 6. **New Acquisition Pathways** - Middle tier of acquisition for rapid prototyping and fielding - Software acquisition pathways for efficient software development - Special provisions for "urgent capability acquisition" and "middle tier of acquisition" ## Major Repeals The legislation repeals numerous existing provisions including: - Separate program elements for various systems (F-35B/C, Joint Light Tactical Vehicle) - Budget display requirements for specific programs (body armor, cyber mission forces, etc.) - Various budget justification requirements for specific programs - Certain intelligence-related budget display requirements ## Key Implementation Requirements - 180-day deadline for Secretary of Defense to issue guidance on preventing unfair competitive advantage - 120-day period for implementation of new contract clause requirements - Specific funding percentages for industrial expansion program (2% in 2026-2027, 3% thereafter) This legislation represents a significant shift toward more flexible, commercial-focused acquisition processes with emphasis on speed, competition, and supply chain resilience.