Security Industry Association Applauds Passage of DHS Acquisition Reform Measure
Silver Spring, MD (PRWEB) June 13, 2014 -- The Security Industry Association (SIA) applauds the passage of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Acquisition Accountability and Efficiency Act (H.R. 4228), SIA-endorsed legislation that passed unanimously in the House this week. (See "House Passes DHS Acquisitions Reforms Bill," http://www.law360.com/governmentcontracts/articles/545941/house-passes-dhs-acquisitions-reforms-bill.)
“Moving this bill forward demonstrates that bipartisan consensus can be found to address issues that affect the safety and security of the American people,” said SIA CEO Don Erickson. “We are encouraged that the House Homeland Security Committee, under the leadership of Chairman Michael McCaul, has managed to move forward on a number of important homeland security policy initiatives this year, and we will be urging the Senate to act as well.”
Sponsored by Rep. Jeff Duncan, R-S.C., chairman of the House Homeland Security Oversight and Management Efficiency Subcommittee, the bipartisan bill requires changes in DHS acquisition management, including development of a publicly available multiyear acquisition plan to guide procurements and to inform industry of long-term acquisition priorities. The bill also encourages DHS to consult with industry partners in developing an acquisition strategy, strives to maximize opportunities for small business participation, and requires automatic triggers of congressional reporting upon breaches in major acquisition programs.
“Chairman Duncan and the committee have really made a coordinated effort to work with industry partners, including SIA, to solicit feedback during the drafting process on H.R. 4228 and other measures,” said Jake Parker, SIA director of government relations. “It’s a great model of the kind of engagement that will help increase efficiency and accountability in government programs—saving taxpayer dollars and providing more accurate direction for investment and research in the private sector.”
H.R. 4228 has been referred to the U.S. Senate, where it awaits further action.
About the Security Industry Association
The Security Industry Association (SIA) (http://www.securityindustry.org) is the leading trade association for electronic and physical security solution providers, with more than 500 innovative member companies representing more than 300,000 security leaders and experts who shape the future of the security industry. SIA protects and advances its members' interests by advocating pro-industry policies and legislation at the federal and state levels; creating open industry standards that enable integration; advancing industry professionalism through education and training; opening global market opportunities; and collaboration with other like-minded organizations. As a proud sponsor of ISC Events expos and conferences, and owner of the Securing New Ground® conference, SIA ensures its members have access to top-level buyers and influencers, as well as unparalleled learning and network opportunities.
Mickey McCarter, Security Industry Association, http://www.securityindustry.org, +1 (301) 804-4704, [email protected]
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