Demonstrated proficiency requirements for critical acquisition positions

854. Demonstrated proficiency requirements for critical acquisition positions Section 1731 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection: (d) Demonstrated proficiency requirements (1) In addition to the requirements under section 1735 of this title, the Secretary of Defense shall require that individuals selected for, and individuals serving in, civilian critical acquisition positions demonstrate appropriate proficiency in achieving the key performance objectives established under section 1722b(d) of this title. (2) The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, in coordination with each service acquisition executive and component acquisition executive, shall establish and maintain a Department-wide framework for assessing demonstrated proficiency under this subsection, including methods for evaluating demonstrated proficiency in achieving the performance objectives described in paragraph (1), such as the use of covered authorities in programmatic or operational settings. (3) The Secretary shall ensure that the requirements established under this subsection are applied in a manner consistent with the acquisition workforce career field and responsibilities of the position. (4) The Secretary may not solely rely on the completion of training requirements of an individual, or any certification or credential earned by an individual, to satisfy the requirements of this subsection. (5) The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, in coordination with each service acquisition executive and component acquisition executive, shall use the framework established under paragraph (2) to— (A) identify gaps in demonstrated proficiency among individuals selected for, or serving in, critical acquisition positions; and (B) ensure that such individuals who do not demonstrate appropriate proficiency are provided targeted and structured professional development opportunities (including experiential learning, training, or other relevant opportunities) to address such gaps. (6) The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall periodically review and update the framework established under paragraph (2) to ensure alignment with the objectives of the defense acquisition system under section 3102 of this title and to adapt such framework to incorporate new acquisition practices and technologies. (7) In this subsection, the term covered authorities means the following: (A) Chapter 247 of this title. (B) Sections 4021 and 4022 of this title. (C) Section 3602 of this title. (D) Any other acquisition authority, pathway, or method established by the Secretary to enable the rapid, flexible, or iterative development and delivery of a capability. (8) Rule of construction Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to modify or supersede any performance management system established under chapter 43 of title 5, United States Code, or to alter any rights or obligations under applicable collective bargaining agreements. .