ACCESS Act

The ACCESS Act (S 4631) changes federal contracting rules by allowing contractors to use work experience or alternative credentials instead of formal education to meet job requirements. It prohibits federal agencies from requiring minimum education levels for contractor roles without a written justification explaining why such a requirement is necessary. The law also mandates the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue implementation guidance within 60 days, including instructions for agencies on justifying education requirements and recognizing industry credentials like apprenticeships. This affects federal contractors and executive agencies (e.g., departments like Defense or Health and Human Services) when issuing new contract solicitations starting 180 days after enactment.