Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs Chairman William Timmons has announced a hearing titled “Clearing the Path: Reforming Procurement to Accelerate Defense Innovation.” The hearing aims to address how bureaucratic procedures in defense procurement affect innovation and national security. It will examine the challenges defense contractors face when working with the Department of Defense (DOD) due to complex processes, and it will discuss efforts by industry leaders to reform these acquisition practices.
Chairman Timmons stated, “Burdensome defense acquisition and procurement procedures continuously stifle innovation in the American defense industry at the cost of U.S. national security. Bureaucratic red tape hinders defense contractors’ ability to efficiently collaborate with the DOD, delaying the development and deployment of critical technology. Secretary Hegseth is working to transform the DOD to ensure we have the most lethal military in the world and the warfighter has the resources needed to protect our freedom. This hearing will explore ways Congress can modernize government procurement and acquisition processes to foster innovation, strengthen national security, and restore government transparency to the American people.”
The hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at 10:00 AM ET in HVC 210 at the Capitol Visitors Center. Witnesses include Ms. Margaret Boatner from the Aerospace Industrial Association, Mr. Eric Snelgrove from the National Defense Industries Association, and Ms. Shelby Oakley from the U.S. Government Accountability Office. The event will be available for viewing via livestream.
