CM News July 17th Roundup

Welcome to the July 17th edition of NCMA's Contract Management News. This week, we highlight technology and policy developments including the Air Force and Space Force joining the Army's bring-your-own-device initiative to enhance connectivity for service members, the NIH facing scrutiny over contract closures, a U.S. appeals court ruling that some NCAA athletes may qualify as employees, Amazon launching a Sustainability Exchange to aid supply chain decarbonization, and a proposed NDAA amendment giving DoD components more authority to independently purchase cybersecurity products. Each story reflects significant shifts in policy, technology, and regulatory landscapes.

Air Force, Space Force join Army for Bring-Your-Own-Device enrollment

The Space Force and Air Force are following the Army's lead in implementing a bring-your-own-device initiative, allowing service members to access government applications and data on personal devices. This move aims to enhance connectivity and flexibility, especially for reservists and part-time members who may not have regular access to base networks.

NIH could use a little more follow through when it comes to ending contracts

However, at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), there seems to be an issue with the proper closure of contracts, potentially putting federal funds at risk. The HHS Office of Inspector General found that NIH failed to meet administrative closeout requirements for many contracts, leading to recommendations for improved processes and oversight.

US Appeals Court Says Some NCAA Athletes May Qualify as Employees Under Federal Wage-And-Hour Laws

In the realm of college athletics, a U.S. appeals court ruled that college athletes could be considered employees under federal wage-and-hour laws, challenging the NCAA's traditional notion of "amateurism." The case will now proceed to the trial judge for further fact-finding, potentially paving the way for college athletes to receive compensation beyond scholarships.

Amazon Unveils Free Sustainability Exchange for Supply Chains

Amazon has launched a free Sustainability Exchange platform, featuring playbooks and tools designed to help decarbonize supply chain operations. Developed from Amazon's own sustainability practices, this resource aims to assist companies in reducing their carbon footprint.

NDAA Amendment to Give More Authority to DoD Components to Buy Cyber Products

The Senate Armed Services Committee has proposed an amendment to the fiscal 2025 NDAA to grant DoD components more authority to purchase cybersecurity products independently, amending a 2022 bill that centralizes procurement under the DoD CIO. If passed, components could bypass central procurement if there's an urgent need or to ensure market competition.

Initiated by Sen. Eric Schmitt, the amendment addresses concerns about reliance on a single vendor, particularly Microsoft. Another amendment would require companies developing software in China to inform the Pentagon about any vulnerability disclosures to Chinese agencies. These changes aim to improve cybersecurity flexibility and reduce vendor dependence.

Stay informed with NCMA's CM News for the latest updates and insights in the world of contract management and government procurement. Access the full stories by clicking here or subscribe to receive our bi-weekly newsletter directly in your inbox.