Reducing rules in government acquisition, supporting legislation that can actually improve contracting, making sure that cuts are made smartly and with few unintended consequences.  These are just three reasons why government contractors must make sure that their voices are heard over the coming months.  First, there is a real opportunity to meaningfully reduce regulations that govern contracts.  As noted above, the Trump Administration is serious about cutting government.  A brief overview of the contract rules you believe are unnecessary or overly burdensome will help guide those decisions.  Second, there is legislation that may actually pass that would inject some common sense into government acquisition, including potential increases to the Simplified Acquisition and Micro Purchase thresholds.  Other provisions would specifically strengthen the Multiple Award Schedules program and allow for advanced payments for cloud-based software subscriptions.  Third, contractors have the experience and knowledge to provide input to cost cutters on where reductions can be made without harming truly critical missions.  Companies work side by side with government agencies every day and know well not just operational matters, but the culture of how government work gets done.  Contractors should use their associations and own voices at this critical time.  Key decisions will be made that will impact how companies do business with federal customers.  Bad decisions can have negative consequences for your business for years to come.  While business development and project performance are always important, right now is a very unique time when those two actions simply aren’t enough to equal full market participation.  Many opinions will be forwarded to the new administration.  No one should think that everyone reviewing these has the expertise necessary to sort good ideas from bad.  Contractors must make sure that their recommendations and concerns are not just added to the mix but are actually heard.