Bill > S1846

This bill aims to enhance the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) construction capabilities by promoting and standardizing the use of design-build construction methods, which allow a single contractor to handle both the design and construction of a project. The bill highlights that design-build can be an efficient approach, potentially reducing change orders, shortening project timelines, and improving warranty protections. Congress finds that while there were past challenges with construction projects like the Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, these issues should not discourage the use of design-build methods. The bill mandates that when the VA seeks to contract for building or facility design and construction, it must use specific federal procedures for design-build selection, as outlined in title 41, section 3309. Additionally, the legislation requires that certification programs for VA construction projects now explicitly include design-build construction. The bill provides context about the VA's massive capital improvement needs, noting that the estimated cost for long-term capital plans could be as high as $184 billion, and emphasizes the importance of efficiently constructing modern medical facilities for veterans.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1846/all-info