The Value Over Cost Act of 2026 allows the General Services Administration (GSA) to evaluate contracts based on overall value rather than just the lowest price. This means that when federal agencies are choosing suppliers, they can consider factors beyond cost to ensure they get the best overall benefit. The GSA's multiple award schedules help federal agencies buy commercial goods and services more easily and at better prices due to bulk purchasing.
H.R. 1118 was introduced in the 119th Congress by Byron Donalds (Republican) and is currently listed as “Passed House”. It is classified under the Government Operations and Politics policy area, one of 364 bills in that area we track this Congress.
Byron Donalds is the sponsor of 6 bills in our database this Congress, so H.R. 1118 is part of a broader legislative agenda rather than a one-off proposal.
The most significant recorded vote (House, July 21, 2026) ended 421–1.
FEC records show Byron Donalds received $62.5 million from industries this bill affects, led by Retired.
Our conflict-of-interest analysis rates H.R. 1118 7/10 (high risk), higher than 98% of analyzed bills; the average in Government Operations and Politics is 3/10.
Supporters of the Value Over Cost Act of 2026 argue that this bill will lead to higher quality services and products for federal agencies. They believe that by focusing on best value rather than just the lowest cost, the government can ensure better performance and more effective use of taxpayer dollars.
Critics of the Value Over Cost Act of 2026 warn that allowing evaluations based on best value could lead to increased costs and less transparency in the contracting process. They express concerns that it may open the door for favoritism or bias in awarding contracts, potentially undermining accountability in government spending.
The Value Over Cost Act of 2026, sponsored by Byron Donalds, presents potential conflicts of interest, particularly due to significant contributions from the 'Retired' sector. With a total of $62,500,000 in donations from individuals within this industry, there is a clear financial incentive that could influence legislative decisions. Additionally, the overlap between the bill's subject matter, which involves government operations and politics, and the sponsor's donor base raises concerns about prioritizing donor interests over public welfare. The retired sector's involvement suggests that the bill may cater to the interests of this demographic, potentially at the expense of broader public needs.
Moreover, the total overlap amount of $62,500,000 from the retired industry indicates a substantial financial connection that could sway the sponsor's legislative agenda. Voters should be aware that while the bill may aim to address important issues, the financial ties to specific donor industries could lead to conflicts that may not align with the general public's interests.
These industries are both affected by this bill and among the sponsor's top donors.
| Industry | Match Type | Related Subject | Donations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retired (W06) | Sector | Government Operations and Politics | $62,500,000 |
| Total from overlapping industries | $62,500,000 | ||
Top industries funding Byron Donalds, ranked by total contributions.
Source: OpenSecrets.org (Center for Responsive Politics)
Source: GovTrack.us roll call vote data.
What does H.R. 1118 do?
The Value Over Cost Act of 2026 allows the General Services Administration (GSA) to evaluate contracts based on overall value rather than just the lowest price. This means that when federal agencies are choosing suppliers, they can consider factors beyond cost to ensure they get the best overall benefit. The GSA's multiple award schedules help federal agencies buy commercial goods and services…
How did Congress vote on H.R. 1118?
The most significant recorded vote (House, July 21, 2026) ended 421–1.
Who funds the sponsor of H.R. 1118?
FEC records show Byron Donalds received $62.5 million from industries this bill affects, led by Retired. Overlap does not imply wrongdoing; it shows where financial interests and legislation intersect.
Does H.R. 1118 have a conflict of interest?
Our conflict-of-interest analysis rates H.R. 1118 7/10 (high risk), higher than 98% of analyzed bills; the average in Government Operations and Politics is 3/10. This score reflects overlap between the sponsor’s campaign funding, lobbying activity, and the industries the bill affects. It is a transparency indicator, not an accusation.
What is the status of H.R. 1118?
H.R. 1118 is currently “Passed House” as of our last update on July 23, 2026.
Who sponsored H.R. 1118?
H.R. 1118 was sponsored by Byron Donalds (Republican).
