NIB supports strong domestic sourcing, rigorous oversight, and accountability. At the same time, several assertions in GSA’s August 14 letter to the AbilityOne Commission require correction or additional context. NIB’s response provides the facts needed to ensure the Commission has a complete and accurate record.
AbilityOne demonstrates American manufacturing in action.
Since 1938, Americans who are blind have made products in the United States for the federal government. Today, they manufacture, assemble, sew, package, and distribute products that support federal agencies and the warfighter. AbilityOne is a proven model for federal purchasing that supports American production, strengthens domestic supply chains, and creates jobs for American workers.
GSA’s Product Claims Are Inaccurate
GSA’s letter mischaracterizes the sourcing and country-of-origin status of several AbilityOne products. NIB’s response addresses those claims directly and provides product-specific facts to correct the record.
NIB Supports Strong Domestic Sourcing
NIB welcomed strengthened domestic sourcing requirements and supports a transparent, fact-based review of AbilityOne products and supply chains. We are committed to working with our nonprofit agencies and federal partners to strengthen American production and reduce reliance on foreign sources.
The 55% Markup Does Not Go to NPAs
The markup cited by GSA is charged by commercial distributors, not paid to the nonprofit agencies that manufacture AbilityOne products. AbilityOne product prices are subject to federal review and approval, and federal agencies have mechanisms to address distributor markups when appropriate.
Federal Disability Policy Can Discourage Greater Earnings
NIB wants employees who are blind to earn more, advance in their careers, and take on greater responsibility. At the same time, current Social Security Disability Insurance rules can create disincentives for some employees to accept additional hours, raises, or promotions when increased earnings may put benefits at risk.
AbilityOne Deserves Fair and Consistent Treatment
If federal sourcing standards are strengthened, they should be applied consistently across federal procurement and implemented in a way that recognizes AbilityOne’s statutory mission and its support for approximately 41,000 jobs for Americans who are blind or have significant disabilities.
NIB welcomes accountability, oversight, and strengthened domestic sourcing. Accountability must begin with accurate facts, and NIB stands ready to work with the Commission, GSA, nonprofit agencies, and federal partners to ensure the AbilityOne Program continues to deliver for federal customers while creating meaningful employment for Americans who are blind or have significant disabilities.
Read NIB’s full response to the GSA letter here.