The House passed its FY2027 defense bill, 216-212, with no restrictions on contractor stock buybacks or dividends.
Why it matters: The Senate version isn't as clean. Section 815 would block any DOD contractor from doing buybacks or dividends for the life of a contract, without a waiver. The Association is pushing to strip it out.
What's next: The Senate leaves for August recess next week and won't get to the NDAA before then, especially with Democrats protesting the administration's ongoing war in Iran. Expect the bill in September, then a House-Senate conference. A final bill likely lands in November or December.
What we're also watching: Senator Hawley tried to attach the Faster Labor Contracts Act to a HELP Committee bill last week. Chair Cassidy pulled the bill in response. Hawley will likely look for another opening this fall. We're urging member companies to raise concerns with Senate Republicans now.
