Defense Department Issues Guidance on Restrictions for Defense Contractors Using Outside Consultants
The U.S. Department of Defense has released new guidance concerning restrictions on defense contractors retaining outside consultants, particularly in relation to Chinese military companies. This follows the enactment of Section 851 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025, which prohibits covered lobbyists from engaging with Chinese military companies. The guidance document, titled 'PROJECT CLEAR Contractor Lobbying Evaluation for Adversarial Relationships,' focuses on relationships with companies on the Department's 1260H list. The guidance aims to clarify enforcement measures and ensure compliance with the NDAA's provisions.