Bill

HR 5191

To direct the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering to issue guidance for private entities on demonstrating how biobased products meet Department of Defense requirements, and for other purposes.

119th Congress Introduced by Don Davis and 2 co-sponsors

HR 5191 directs the Defense Department to guide private firms in proving their biobased products meet procurement standards, boosting sustainability in defense operations.

Introduced in House

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Bill Summary · HR 5191

Summary of HR 5191

Bill Title: To direct the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering to issue guidance for private entities on demonstrating how biobased products meet Department of Defense requirements, and for other purposes.

Bill Number: HR 5191
Introduced: September 08, 2025
Status: Introduced in House
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 5191 is to enhance the integration of biobased products within the Department of Defense (DoD) procurement processes. The bill aims to provide clear guidance for private entities on how to demonstrate that their biobased products meet the specific requirements of the DoD. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote sustainability and the use of renewable resources in defense operations.

Key Provisions

Guidance Development:
- The Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering is tasked with developing and publicly releasing guidance within one year of the bill's enactment. This guidance will assist private entities in proving that their biobased products meet DoD requirements.
Analysis by the Comptroller General:
- The Comptroller General of the United States will conduct an analysis of the DoD's processes for developing procurement requirements. This analysis aims to identify whether these processes unintentionally exclude biobased products.
- A report detailing the findings of this analysis, along with any recommendations to reduce exclusion of biobased products, must be submitted to the congressional defense committees within one year of the bill's enactment.
Definition of Biobased Products:
- The bill defines "biobased product" as any product manufactured, produced, or developed using living organisms to alter living or non-living materials.

Impact

Private Entities: Companies producing biobased products will benefit from clearer guidelines on how to demonstrate compliance with DoD requirements, potentially increasing their market opportunities within defense contracting.
Department of Defense: The DoD may see an increase in the adoption of sustainable products, aligning with broader environmental goals and potentially reducing reliance on non-renewable resources.
Congressional Oversight: The requirement for a report from the Comptroller General ensures legislative oversight of the DoD's procurement processes, promoting transparency and accountability.

Legislative Actions

2025-09-08: The bill was referred to the House Committee on Armed Services upon introduction.

Related Bills

HR 3838: A companion bill that may address similar issues regarding biobased products and defense procurement.

This summary provides an overview of HR 5191, highlighting its intent, key provisions, and potential impact on stakeholders involved in defense contracting and sustainability initiatives.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.