Extension of participation in the 8(a) Program

(a) In general Notwithstanding section 7(j)(11)(C) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 636(j)(11)(C)), beginning on the date that is 75 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Small Business Administration shall extend the term of participation in the 8(a) Program by a period of 1 year for a small business concern— (1) that was participating in the 8(a) Program between January 20, 2025, and September 30, 2026; and (2) that does not decline such extension. (b) Rulemaking authority Not later than 15 days after the date of enactment of this section, the Administrator shall issue rules, in accordance with the notice requirements under section 553 of title 5, United States Code, to carry out this section. Such rules shall be similar to the rules issued to carry out section 869 of the National Defense Authorization Act of Fiscal Year 2021 (15 U.S.C. 637 note) and section 330 of division N of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (15 U.S.C. 637 note). (c) Prohibition on official travel If the Administrator does not issue a final rule under subsection (a) the date that is 75 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Administrator may not obligate any funds made available for official travel by the Administrator until the Administrator submits such final rule.