Is the set-aside program more of an environment to help individuals start companies?
Response: AMVETS does not believe the set-aside program only stands to benefit new business owners. The original intent of the program was to help ensure all veteran owned businesses had a fair chance at government contracts. Public Law 109-461, The Veterans Benefits, Health Care and Information Technology Act of 2006, was signed into law by President Bush on December 22, 2006, and required the law to take effect by June 20, 2007. The law allows VA special authority to provide set-aside and sole source contracts to small businesses owned and operated by veterans and service-disabled veterans. This legislation is codified in 38 U.S.C. 8127 and 8128. Over two years have passed with still no significant change in regards to how federal contracting officers are trained in identifying set-asides properly. Supporting Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) contributes significantly in restoring their quality of life while aiding in their transition from active duty to civil
