OMB Seeks Review of Buy American Foreign Purchase Reporting 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: 2026-06071 — Overtime and Holiday Inspection Fee Reductions for Small and Very Small Establishments

Starting March 30, 2026, small and very small meat, poultry, and egg businesses can apply to pay less for overtime and holiday inspections. Small places get 30% off, and very small ones get a whopping 75% off, thanks to $20 million set aside for this. If they act fast, they can even get money back for fees paid since October 5, 2025, but only while funds last!

Next: 2026-06081 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V SCOUT

The Maritime Administration is asking for your thoughts on letting a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V SCOUT, operate in U.S. coastal waters carrying up to 12 paying passengers. This could affect U.S. boat builders and businesses using American-made vessels, so they want to hear from the public by April 29, 2026. If approved, it might shake up the local boat trade, but no costs or fees are mentioned yet.