Michael Baumgartner (R-WA)
Expanding the Defense Industrial Base Sales Act
A Republican bill with 1 Republican cosponsor · See the cosponsor
Last activity — Ordered to be Reported Unfavorably by the Yeas and Nays: 23 - 23.
Introduced, nothing more yet
Formally proposed, and not yet handed to a committee.
Nearly every bill is sent to a committee within days. Introduction alone is not a sign of support, of momentum, or of any likelihood of passing — any member may introduce any bill.
Its path through Congress
- Introduced
What this bill would do
This bill, known as the "Expanding the Defense Industrial Base Sales Act," seeks to amend the Arms Export Control Act. It proposes to allow foreign military financing to be used for direct commercial contracts. This means funds could be used to buy defense articles, services, and design or construction services that are not sold directly by the United States Government. The Secretary of State would need to approve these uses in consultation with the Secretary of Defense. Additionally, the Secretary of State would be responsible for setting terms and conditions to protect national security interests.
Yes· 3 of 8
- Scored +4
Does this make it easier to run a small business?
The bill specifically includes mandates to encourage participation by nontraditional defense companies, which often includes smaller entities.
- Scored +4
Would business owners be better off under this?
The bill benefits business owners in the defense sector, especially those looking to enter as nontraditional companies.
- Scored +3
Is this likely to create jobs?
The bill encourages participation by nontraditional defense companies, which could stimulate job growth in the defense sector.
The opposite
No question was scored the opposite.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
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Support for Nontraditional Defense Companies: Under Section 2(c)(4), the regulations developed may include efforts to encourage participation by nontraditional defense companies. This could provide opportunities for different types of businesses to enter the defense industry.
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Enhanced Accountability and Oversight: Section 2(c)(2) requires the creation of regulations relating to audit, reporting, and financial accountability standards. This is intended to ensure that the use of funds is properly tracked and reported.
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Security Protections: According to Section 2(b)(2), the Secretary of State can set specific terms, conditions, and limitations to advance the foreign policy and national security interests of the United States.
Potential Negative Impacts for People
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Potential for Oversight Burdens: Section 2(c)(1) requires the creation of new procedures for review and approval, which may create new administrative requirements for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Defense.
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Compliance Requirements: Under Section 2(c)(3), there will be a need for regulations regarding compliance with end-use monitoring and export control requirements, which could impact how these commercial contracts are managed.
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Tap or hover a score for the reason it gave.
- Economy And Finance
- Does this make it easier to run a small business? — The bill specifically includes mandates to encourage participation by nontraditional defense companies, which often includes smaller entities. Is this likely to create jobs? — The bill encourages participation by nontraditional defense companies, which could stimulate job growth in the defense sector. Is this likely to grow the economy? — By expanding the defense industrial base through direct commercial contracts, the bill supports domestic economic activity.
- National Security And Foreign Policy
- Does this send more money or help to other countries? — The bill expands the utility of foreign military financing for commercial contracts, aiding foreign procurement options. Does this strengthen ties with allied countries? — Providing more flexible procurement options can strengthen defense ties with allied nations.
- Demographic And Interest Groups
- Would business owners be better off under this? — The bill benefits business owners in the defense sector, especially those looking to enter as nontraditional companies.
- Governance And Ideology
- Does this give the federal government more power? — The bill grants the Secretary of State broader authority to oversee and approve direct commercial contracts. Does this make what the government does easier for the public to see? — The bill mandates the establishment of regulations for audit, reporting, and financial accountability standards.
- 5/13/2026
- Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
- Ordered to be Reported Unfavorably by the Yeas and Nays: 23 - 23.
- 5/12/2026
- 1 Cosponsor added.
- 5/4/2026
- Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
- Introduced in House
Michael LawlerRepublican · New York