New member introduction: SDVOSB specializing in legal support services

The most common pitfall when moving from federal to state and local procurement is assuming the processes are similar to the federal system. Federal acquisitions follow the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), but state and local governments have their own distinct procurement codes and vendor registration processes. My firm learned this when expanding into Georgia state term contracts.

State portals often require separate entity registration and may have their own small business or veteran-owned business certifications. For example, states run their own vendor registration portals separate from SAM.gov, such as Team Georgia Marketplace. You will need to research each state, county, or city's specific requirements. The limitations on subcontracting rule, as outlined in FAR 52.219-14, is a federal regulation and does not directly apply to state and local contracts unless specifically incorporated by that jurisdiction. State and local agencies may have their own rules regarding subcontracting, or they may not have any at all.