9/9/2008
SBIR Reauthorization Update
by Mildred Holley, Technology Programs Manager
Rick Shindell reports in his SBIR Insider newsletter that the SBIR program appears to be assured of a reauthorization extension through March 20, 2009. This temporary action is the result of small business legislation signed by President Bush in May.
SBA’s acting general counsel has provided an opinion to Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez, Chair of the House Small Business Committee, that states in part, “…SBA Agrees that the authorization for the SBIR Program is extended through March 20, 2009 and intends to continue to provide guidance, coordination, and oversight of the SBIR program with the 11 SBIR Participating Agencies….” Ms. Velazquez has sent letters to each of the 11 agencies informing them of SBA’s opinion. She further asked that any agency whose legal analysis demonstrates that the SBIR program would not be extended for this time period to provide a written response to her committee by close of business on September 12.
This short-term extension will enable the SBIR program to continue to operate while awaiting Congressional action on the separate House and Senate bills that propose longer-term reauthorization. H.R. 5819 and S. 3362 contain significant differences and it appears unlikely that a compromise can be reached by September 30.
We will keep Tech Track readers informed as updates become available.
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