Small Biz Survival Guide to Uncle Sam's New Rules

2026-04911 — Federal Acquisition Regulation; Federal Acquisition Circular 2026-01; Introduction

The government just updated its big rulebook for buying stuff, called the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). These changes affect businesses that want to sell to the government, especially small companies, by adjusting trade agreement rules and making it easier to follow the rules. The new rules kick in soon, so sellers should get ready to save time and maybe money!

2026-04913 — Federal Acquisition Regulation; Federal Acquisition Circular 2026-01; Small Entity Compliance Guide

Starting March 13, 2026, small businesses working with the government will see updated dollar limits for trade agreements. These changes affect when certain international trade rules kick in, making it easier to know when they apply. If you’re a small contractor, this update helps you understand new spending thresholds and plan your bids better—no surprises, just clearer rules!

2026-04912 — Federal Acquisition Regulation: Trade Agreements Thresholds

Starting March 13, 2026, new dollar limits kick in for government contracts under trade agreements like the WTO and various Free Trade Agreements. If you’re a business working with the government, these updated thresholds tell you when certain trade rules apply, often meaning bigger contracts get special treatment. This change helps keep government buying fair and up-to-date with global trade rules.

2026-03910 — Submission for OMB Review; Examination of Records by Comptroller General and Contract Audit

Contractors working with the government need to keep their records open for audits by the Comptroller General and contract auditors. The government is asking to extend the current rules that make sure these records stay available for review, with no big changes or extra costs. If you’re involved, you’ve got until March 30, 2026, to share your thoughts on this extension.

2026-03065 — Federal Acquisition Regulation: Prohibition on Certain Semiconductor Products and Services

Starting December 23, 2027, federal agencies like the DoD, NASA, and others won’t be allowed to buy certain semiconductor products or services that don’t meet new rules. This change affects companies selling tech parts to the government and aims to boost national security. If you’re involved, get ready to adjust your contracts and plans before the deadline, and don’t forget to share your thoughts by April 20, 2026!

2025-13614 — Federal Acquisition Regulation: Ending Procurement and Forced Use of Paper Straws

The government is stopping the purchase and forced use of weak paper straws and switching to stronger, plastic-like straws instead. This change affects all federal agencies and aims to make straw use more durable and practical. The new rules will roll out soon, helping save money and reduce waste by ditching flimsy paper straws.

Previous: 2025-16412 — Federal Acquisition Regulation: Inflation Adjustment of Acquisition-Related Thresholds

The FAR Council is updating certain government buying rules to keep up with inflation, making sure dollar limits for contracts reflect today’s prices. This affects federal agencies and contractors by raising some spending thresholds starting in 2025, so bigger deals can happen without extra paperwork. These changes don’t touch construction wages or trade agreements but do help streamline government purchases overall.

Next: 2025-16428 — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Pacific Cod in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area

Good news for small fishing boats under 60 feet! Starting now, they can fish for Pacific cod in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands using hook-and-line or pot gear. This move helps make sure the full 2025 catch limit is used, supporting fishermen and the local seafood market.