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Codification of acquisition workforce key performance objectives

Division A · Title VIII: Acquisition Policy, Acquisition Management, and Related Matters · Subtitle C: Provisions Relating to Acquisition Workforce Development

Plain-language summaryAI

The law requires the Department of Defense to set specific performance goals for civilian workers involved in defense acquisitions, focusing on strategic outcomes and workforce behaviors that support innovation, risk-taking, and continuous learning. These goals will be used in performance reviews, promotions, bonuses, and training requirements. By October 2027, the Department must also report on whether similar goals should apply to military personnel working in acquisitions.

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Section Text · Sec. 853.
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(a) In general

Section 1722b of title 10, United States Code, is amended—

(1)

in subsection (b), by adding at the end the following new paragraph:

(6)

Key performance objectives described in subsection (d).

(2)

by adding at the end the following new subsection:

(d) Acquisition workforce key performance objectives

(1)

Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this subsection, the Secretary of Defense shall implement mandatory key performance objectives (in this subsection referred to as KPOs ) for evaluating the performance of civilian members of the acquisition workforce.

(2)

The KPOs implemented under paragraph (1) shall—

(A)

include strategic outcome objectives and workforce behavioral objectives for the workforce; and

(B)

be developed in a manner that enables an assessment of the degree of alignment between—

(i)

the objectives of the defense acquisition system established by section 3102 of this title; and

(ii)

the prudent and appropriate use by civilian members of the acquisition workforce of innovative, risk-tolerant practices in achieving those objectives.

(3)

The strategic outcome objectives required under paragraph (2)(A) shall align with the objectives of the defense acquisition system established pursuant to section 3102 of this title and shall address strategic acquisition mission areas, including—

(A)

expeditiously delivering capabilities to enhance the operational readiness of the armed forces and enable the missions of the Department of Defense;

(B)

enabling and supporting the integration of innovative solutions to enhance military effectiveness and responsiveness to emerging threats;

(C)

ensuring supply chain and industrial base resilience and surge capabilities to support contingency and operational plans of the Department of Defense;

(D)

cultivating a leadership and organizational culture in civilian members of the acquisition workforce that encourages responsible risk-taking, collaboration, and learning through failure; and

(E)

maintaining a current and proficient workforce through continuous education, including digital and artificial intelligence literacy and technical proficiency necessary for the job function of an individual.

(4)

The workforce behavioral objectives required under paragraph (2)(A) shall be designed to develop the critical skills and behaviors of civilian members of the acquisition workforce, including—

(A)

the adoption of innovative acquisition authorities and approaches;

(B)

a preference for commercial products and commercial services and supporting market research of commercial or emerging technologies;

(C)

engagement with end users to incorporate feedback into acquisition decisions and acquisition program adjustments;

(D)

the ability to use iterative development cycles and inform program tradeoffs, including discontinuing or terminating the development of capabilities—

(i)

that no longer align with approved capability requirements (as defined in section 3101 of this title) or priorities; or

(ii)

that are experiencing significant cost growth, performance or technical deficiencies, or delays in schedule;

(E)

the pursuit of professional development to broaden expertise and assume expanded responsibilities in cross-functional initiatives; and

(F)

the ability to overcome obstacles to prioritize end-user outcomes in acquisition execution.

(5)

The KPOs implemented under paragraph (1) shall be integrated into—

(A)

annual performance appraisals for civilian members of the acquisition workforce;

(B)

promotion, bonus, and assignment considerations for such members; and

(C)

requirements for certification, training, and continuing education under this chapter.

(b) Repeal

Section 826 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 ( Public Law 119–60 ) is repealed.

(c) Application to members of the armed forces

Not later than October 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report assessing the feasibility and advisability of applying the key performance objectives established under section 1722b(d) of title 10, United States Code (as added by this section), to members of the Armed Forces serving in the acquisition workforce (as defined in section 101 of such title), including recommendations on how such objectives could be appropriately adapted for such members.