For whatever reason, most federal contractors stop paying attention to what happens in Washington, D.C. east of First Street, NW and Independence Avenue.  They shouldn’t.  Congress is moving forward with plans requiring the Department of Defense to make use of commercial e-commerce platforms for the purchase of commercial items.  In plain English:  Congress is about to green light DOD’s use of Amazon over the use of GSA Schedule contracts, mandatory sources like Ability One, or just about any other established commercial item contracting method.  If this is a concern to your company, you need to write your Congressman and get involved today.  The provision, Section 801 of the FY’18 House Defense Authorization bill, doesn’t stop at DOD buys.  DOD would have to make the on-line system available to all federal agencies that would then be free to by-pass established procurement methods, at least to some extent, and buy on-line.  Your company made an investment in its government business, particularly if you’re a GSA Schedule contract holder.  This legislation could be a direct threat to that business.  While it is unfortunate that this is a distraction during the federal buying season, it is.  If you’re not familiar with Section 801 and what it means for your business, you’re behind the curve.  Read up and take action accordingly.