FEATURE COMMENT: COFC Pushes Back on GAO Waiver and Cost-Realism Analyses
Client Alert | 1 min read | 10.14.21
In a recent alert, we highlighted VS2 v. U.S., in which theCourt of Federal Claims refused to expand the Federal Circuit’s Blue & Gold waiver doctrine and required the Army to consider performance risk in a cost realism evaluation. In a new “Feature Comment” published in The Government Contractor, we take a deeper dive into the Court’s disagreement with GAO and what it means for contractors and agencies going forward. Of particular note, contractors considering capping costs in their proposals should carefully consider when and how agencies may evaluate performance risk; and both protesters and intervenors must stay vigilant and diligently pursue potential protest grounds.
Insights
Client Alert | 5 min read | 06.11.25
Steel Tariffs Doubled: How the Hike Could Reshape Construction Projects at Home and Abroad
To date the Trump Administration has issued multiple proclamations imposing varying rates of import duties on steel and aluminum and certain derivatives, including construction materials. These measures have added volatility and financial pressures to the construction sector both in the United States and abroad. Most recently, on June 3, 2025, President Donald Trump issued a proclamation under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, doubling tariffs on imported steel and aluminum from 25% to 50%, effective June 4, 2025. This action aims to counteract the continued influx of lower-priced, excess steel and aluminum imports that, according to the administration, threaten U.S. national security by undermining domestic production capacity. The proclamation notes that while prior tariffs provided some price support, they were insufficient to achieve the necessary capacity utilization rates for sustained industry health and defense readiness. The United Kingdom remains temporarily exempt at the 25% rate until July 9, per the U.S.-U.K. Economic Prosperity Deal.
Client Alert | 5 min read | 06.11.25
The FCPA Pause Is Over: Trump DOJ Issues Long-Awaited FCPA Investigations and Enforcement Guidelines
Client Alert | 4 min read | 06.10.25
Trump Administration Cyber Executive Order Revises Prior Administrations’ Requirements
Client Alert | 19 min read | 06.09.25
