ACCESS Act

# ACCESS Act Summary **What it would do:** The ACCESS Act would restrict federal government contractors from requiring minimum education credentials (like college degrees) when bidding for jobs, unless contracting officers can justify why that education is truly necessary. The bill encourages federal agencies to consider alternatives, such as accepting work experience instead of formal education for certain positions. **Who it affects:** This primarily impacts federal contractors and their employees, as well as job applicants seeking positions on federally-funded projects.

Government agencies that oversee federal contracts would need to adjust their hiring practices and provide written justification for education requirements. **Key provisions:** The bill requires the Office of Management and Budget to issue guidance to federal agencies on implementing these changes and explicitly encourages considering experience-based alternatives to education requirements. The restrictions apply to various types of educational credentials—whether education alone, education plus experience, or combinations thereof—unless justified by the contracting officer. **Current status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.