Toll Free: 866-430-3322 7:30AM - 4:30PM MST
Want to stay connected and learn about Bonds? Sign up for our newsletter!
Toll Free: 866-430-3322 7:30AM - 4:30PM MST
Want to stay connected and learn about Bonds? Sign up for our newsletter!
Following Executive Orders issued in 2025, the Federal Acquisition Regulation underwent significant revisions aimed at increasing procurement efficiency and reducing non-statutory requirements.
Good news for sureties: FAR Part 28 (Bonds and Insurance) remained largely intact with minimal changes to provisions or clauses.
However, substantial revisions to FAR Part 36 (Construction Contracts) will impact bonded contractors pursuing federal work:
12% self-performance rule eliminated – Prime contractors no longer have a FAR-mandated minimum, though set-aside contracts still have obligations under FAR 52.219-14.
Pre-construction orientations, site visits and data disclosures now discretionary – No longer FAR-required, agencies have more discretion on whether to hold these requirements; expect more variation between agencies.
Commercial construction explicitly confirmed – Agencies may now procure construction services under FAR Part 12, likely increasing commercial service procurements.
These changes give government agencies more discretion in how they structure and manage construction projects. Contractors pursuing federal work should expect more variability between agencies and solicitations. Understanding these new flexibilities—and staying ahead of how different agencies implement them—will be crucial for successful bidding and project execution in 2026.
Meet Cristina Alasu, one of our expert Producers! Cristina joined The Surety Place in 2020, starting in our Renewal Department where she managed accounts in addition to building client relationships. Cristina is equipped to guide clients through their commercial or contract bonding needs from start to finish. She is continuously building on her knowledge so she can offer well-informed, dependable guidance to the individuals and businesses she supports.
Outside of work, Cristina is an avid hiker and loves exploring new trails, taking in Arizona’s beautiful landscapes. When she’s at home, she’s often tending to her garden, an activity she finds both grounding and rewarding while learning what thrives in our desert climate. Cristina is also a dedicated reader and music lover. She has played the classical violin for many years, and it remains one of her favorite creative outlets.
Need help with your bonding requirements? Cristina’s ready to dive in and find solutions for you.
We are proud that our agents, such as Cristina, embody exactly what makes a great surety agent. A knowledgeable surety agent should understand the specific industries they serve, have access to multiple surety markets to find the best fit, and act as a true advocate who reviews financials, identifies potential issues, and secures the most appropriate bond terms. At The Surety Place, we’ve built our reputation on these principles: industry expertise spanning decades, strong relationships with A-rated sureties nationwide, white-glove approach, and a team approach where clients always have support—even when their primary contact is unavailable. Whether it’s a simple license bond or complex contract surety, choosing an agent with the right experience and market access makes all the difference.
February is the month of love, appreciation, and sharing sweetness with those who matter most. Our of our team members would like to share a cherished family recipe that her Grandma made and shipped to all the grandkids every Valentine’s Day—a tradition that perfectly captures the spirit of the season.
These vintage Betty Crocker rolled sugar cookies are the kind of timeless treat that brings people together, whether you’re baking with kids, preparing for a client appreciation event, or simply spreading some love to your team. The recipe is wonderfully forgiving and perfect for decorating with Valentine’s Day colors, hearts, or any festive design that brings a smile.
Happy Valentine’s Day from The Surety Place family to yours!
Ingredients:
¾ cup shortening (part butter or margarine, softened)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla (or ½ teaspoon lemon extract)
2 ½ cups Gold Medal (all-purpose) flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
Directions:
Mix the shortening, sugar, eggs, and flavoring together thoroughly (best to cream the shortening and sugar together until smooth first). Blend in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cover and chill for at least an hour.
Heat oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C) and line your baking sheet(s) with parchment paper. Roll the dough to ¼ inch thickness on a lightly floured pastry mat or board. Cut out desired shapes and transfer them to your baking sheet(s). Bake 6-8 minutes or until very lightly brown.
Vanilla Butter Frosting:
1/3 cup soft butter
3 cups confectioners’ sugar
1 ½ tsp of vanilla
About 2 tbsp of milk.
Blend butter and sugar. Stir in vanilla and enough milk. Beat until frosting is smooth and is of spreading consistency. This is enough frosting for a double batch. Can add food coloring to frosting.
