Davis Announces Formation of Bipartisan “Smart Contracting Caucus”

May 22, 2008
WASHINGTON, D.C.- Seven-term Rep. Tom Davis, R-Va., ranking member and former chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, has announced the formation of the "Smart Contracting Caucus." Read more.

"I am fortunate to come from a procurement law background, so I've had an advantage in understanding of a lot of the nuances of contracting laws," Davis said. "I've been privileged to take a lead role in a lot of procurement reforms. As I prepare to leave Congress, I want to make sure others who care about procurement have a forum to discuss and push for sound procurement policy."

Davis said he enjoyed the Feb. 18 editorial cartoon in Federal Computer Week magazine that showed supposed members of Congress at "Tom Davis' Retirement Party" attempting to hook up a complicated device labeled "procurement policy."

"It was funny and flattering, but it's not accurate," Davis said. "There are plenty of other procurement leaders ready to take up the cause.

Unfortunately, we also have some who would sacrifice smart procurement for short-term political gain. It's time those of us who get it to do something to broaden our number and our voice."

The caucus is a Congressional Member Organization, registered with the Committee on House Administration. Davis solicited membership in an April 24 Dear Colleague letter to all House Member offices and signed by Rep. Davis, Rep. Joe Courtney, D-Conn., Rep. Christopher Shays, R-Conn., and Rep. Christopher P. Carney, D-Pa.

The federal government spends about $430 billion per year on contracts for goods and services. It is incumbent upon members to ensure we do this efficiently, Davis said.

"Businesses that engage in government contracting employ tens of thousands of American citizens in every region of the country and nearly every congressional district," the letter states.

 "This caucus will be a venue for Members to share their positive experiences regarding small business economic development with other Member offices."