Comment on FR Doc # 2026-11765
Anonymous AnonymousOtherIndividual
Summary: The commenter expresses concern that the proposed regulation lacks clarity, which may lead to increased processing times, more documentation requests, and a higher volume of appeals. They suggest that the SBA provide clearer definitions and examples to improve administrative efficiency and fairness.
The proposed regulation appears likely to increase, rather than decrease, processing times for 8(a) applications. Applicants will understandably submit more documentation because they cannot determine exactly what the regulation requires. Reviewers will respond with additional requests for information because the evidentiary standard is unclear. Appeals and reconsideration requests will likely increase for the same reason. SBA can avoid these consequences by defining key terms, explaining whether personal experiences remain independently relevant, and providing examples illustrating how the standard will be applied. Clarity is one of the best ways to improve both fairness and administrative efficiency.