99 -- Size for Multiple Award Schedule and other multiple award contract purposes and 8(a) business development/small disadvantaged business status determinations

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is proposing amendments to its regulations to clarify the timing for determining business size in relation to the General Services Administration’s Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) Program and other multiple award contracts, such as Governmentwide Acquisition Contracts and multi-agency contracts. These proposed changes also extend to the SBA’s 8(a) Business Development program, specifying when a business concern can receive orders as an 8(a) participant under the MAS Program and similar contracts. The intent is to ensure consistency and transparency in how size standards are applied throughout the contracting process. The proposed rule was published on April 25, 2003, and invites public comments through June 24, 2003. The revision aims to address procedural aspects affecting small businesses and disadvantaged business status determinations, supporting more precise eligibility criteria in federal contracting. This initiative reflects SBA’s efforts to enhance the clarity and administration of size determinations for multiple award contract vehicles, which are critical sources of federal procurement opportunities for small businesses and 8(a) program participants.