Cohen Introduces Bill to Help Veteran-Owned Businesses Win Contracts from Veterans Administration

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today introduced legislation that would give preference for Veterans Administration (VA) contracts to small businesses owned by veterans that are headquartered near the vicinity of the VA where the project is to be completed.

“Veterans give so much of themselves for our country,” said Congressman Cohen.  “It’s only right that we help them when their service ends.  My bill would help veterans-owned businesses win contracts from the VA that will ultimately help our community of veterans and the community at large.”

Currently, the VA gives preference to contractors that are owned by veterans who have service-connected disabilities and other veterans-owned businesses.  Sometimes contracts are awarded out of state when there are qualified small businesses in the local area.  Congressman Cohen’s legislation will help maintain the existing preferences, but give additional preference to small businesses that are headquartered within a 60-mile radius of the VA facility where the work is to be completed.

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