Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement: Acquisitions in Support of Operations in Afghanistan (DFARS Case 2013-D009), 59854-59859 [2013-23743]
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59854
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 189 / Monday, September 30, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
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203.905 Procedures for investigating
complaints.
(1) Unless the DoD Inspector General
makes a determination that the
complaint is frivolous, fails to allege a
violation of the prohibition in 203.903,
or has been previously addressed in
another Federal or State judicial or
administrative proceeding initiated by
the complainant, the DoD Inspector
General will investigate the complaint.
*
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*
(3) Upon completion of the
investigation, the DoD Inspector
General—
(i) Either will determine that the
complaint is frivolous, fails to allege a
violation of the prohibition in 203.903,
or has been previously addressed in
another Federal or State judicial or
administrative proceeding initiated by
the complainant, or will submit the
report addressed in paragraph (2) of this
section within 180 days after receiving
the complaint; and
(ii) If unable to submit a report within
180 days, will submit the report within
the additional time period, up to 180
days, as agreed to by the person
submitting the complaint.
(4) The DoD Inspector General may
not respond to any inquiry or disclose
any information from or about any
person alleging the reprisal, except to
the extent that such response or
disclosure is—
(i) Made with the consent of the
person alleging reprisal;
(ii) Made in accordance with 5 U.S.C.
552a (the Freedom of Information Act)
or as required by any other applicable
Federal law; or
(iii) Necessary to conduct an
investigation of the alleged reprisal.
(5) The legal burden of proof specified
at paragraph (e) of 5 U.S.C. 1221
(Individual Right of Action in Certain
Reprisal Cases) shall be controlling for
the purposes of an investigation
conducted by the DoD Inspector
General, decision by the head of an
agency, or judicial or administrative
proceeding to determine whether
prohibited discrimination has occurred.
■ 7. Section 203.906 is amended by—
■ a. Revising paragraph (1);
■ b. Amending paragraph (2)(ii) by
adding a sentence at the end of the
paragraph; and
■ c. By adding paragraphs (4), (5), and
(6).
The revision and additions read as
follows:
203.906
Remedies.
(1) Not later than 30 days after
receiving a DoD Inspector General
report in accordance with 203.905, the
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head of the agency shall determine
whether sufficient basis exists to
conclude that the contractor has
subjected the complainant to a reprisal
as prohibited by 203.903; and shall
either issue an order denying relief or
shall take one or more of the following
actions:
(i) Order the contractor to take
affirmative action to abate the reprisal.
(ii) Order the contractor to reinstate
the person to the position that the
person held before the reprisal, together
with compensatory damages (including
back pay), employment benefits, and
other terms and conditions of
employment that would apply to the
person in that position if the reprisal
had not been taken.
(iii) Order the contractor to pay the
complainant an amount equal to the
aggregate amount of all costs and
expenses (including attorneys’ fees and
expert witnesses’ fees) that were
reasonably incurred by the complainant
for, or in connection with, bringing the
complaint regarding the reprisal, as
determined by the head of the agency.
(2) * * *
(ii) * * * An action under this
authority may not be brought more than
two years after the date on which
remedies are deemed to have been
exhausted.
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(4) Whenever a contractor fails to
comply with an order issued by the
head of agency in accordance with 10
U.S.C. 2409, the head of the agency or
designee shall request the Department of
Justice to file an action for enforcement
of such order in the United States
district court for a district in which the
reprisal was found to have occurred. In
any action brought under this
paragraph, the court may grant
appropriate relief, including injunctive
relief, compensatory and exemplary
damages, and reasonable attorney fees
and costs. The person upon whose
behalf an order was issued may also file
such an action or join in an action filed
by the head of the agency.
(5) Any person adversely affected or
aggrieved by an order issued by the
head of the agency in accordance with
10 U.S.C. 2409 may obtain judicial
review of the order’s conformance with
the law, and the implementing
regulation, in the United States Court of
Appeals for a circuit in which the
reprisal is alleged in the order to have
occurred. No petition seeking such
review may be filed more than 60 days
after issuance of the order by the head
of the agency or designee. Review shall
conform to Chapter 7 of Title 5, Unites
States Code. Filing such an appeal shall
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not act to stay the enforcement of the
order by the head of an agency, unless
a stay is specifically entered by the
court.
(6) The rights and remedies provided
for in this subpart may not be waived
by any agreement, policy, form, or
condition of employment.
■ 8. Section 203.907 is added to read as
follows.
203.907
Classified information.
As provided in section 827(h) of the
National Defense Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 2013, nothing in this
coverage provides any rights to disclose
classified information not otherwise
provided by law.
252—SOLICITATION PROVISIONS AND
CONTRACT CLAUSES
9. Section 252.203–7002 is amended
by—
■ a. Amending the clause date by
removing ‘‘(JAN 2009)’’ and adding in
its place ‘‘(SEP 2013)’’;
■ b. Designating the clause text as
paragraph (a);
■ c. Revising the newly designated
paragraph (a); and
■ d. Adding a new paragraph (b).
The revision and addition read as
follows:
■
252.203–7002 Requirement to Inform
Employees of Whistleblower Rights.
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*
*
*
*
(a) The Contractor shall inform its
employees in writing, in the predominant
native language of the workforce, of
contractor employee whistleblower rights
and protections under 10 U.S.C. 2409, as
described in subpart 203.9 of the Defense
Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement.
(b) The Contractor shall include the
substance of this clause, including this
paragraph (b), in all subcontracts.
(End of clause)
[FR Doc. 2013–23768 Filed 9–27–13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 5001–06–P
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Defense Acquisition Regulations
System
48 CFR Parts 206, 212, 225, and 252
RIN 0750–AH98
Defense Federal Acquisition
Regulation Supplement: Acquisitions
in Support of Operations in
Afghanistan (DFARS Case 2013–D009)
Defense Acquisition
Regulations System, Department of
Defense (DoD).
ACTION: Interim rule.
AGENCY:
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DoD is issuing an interim rule
amending the Defense Federal
Acquisition Regulation Supplement
(DFARS) to implement two sections of
the National Defense Authorization Act
for Fiscal Year 2013 that require
compliance with domestic source
restrictions in the case of any textile
components supplied by DoD to the
Afghan National Army or the Afghan
National Police for purposes of
production of uniforms, and eliminate
the application of the enhanced
authority to acquire products and
services from Iraq.
DATES: Effective Date: September 30,
2013.
Comment Date: Comments on the
interim rule should be submitted in
writing to the address shown below on
or before November 29, 2013, to be
considered in the formation of a final
rule.
SUMMARY:
Submit comments
identified by DFARS Case 2013–D009,
using any of the following methods:
Æ Regulations.gov: https://
www.regulations.gov. Submit comments
via the Federal eRulemaking portal by
entering ‘‘DFARS Case 2013–D009’’
under the heading ‘‘Enter keyword or
ID’’ and selecting ‘‘Search.’’ Select the
link ‘‘Submit a Comment’’ that
corresponds with ‘‘DFARS Case 2013–
D009.’’ Follow the instructions provided
at the ‘‘Submit a Comment’’ screen.
Please include your name, company
name (if any), and ‘‘DFARS Case 2013–
D009’’ on your attached document.
Æ Email: dfars@osd.mil. Include
DFARS Case 2013–D009 in the subject
line of the message.
Æ Fax: 703–602–0350.
Æ Mail: Defense Acquisition
Regulations System, Attn: Ms. Amy G.
Williams, OUSD (AT&L) DPAP/DARS,
Room 3B855, 3060 Defense Pentagon,
Washington, DC 20301–3060.
Comments received generally will be
posted without change to https://
www.regulations.gov, including any
personal information provided. To
confirm receipt of your comment(s),
please check www.regulations.gov,
approximately two to three days after
submission to verify posting (except
allow 30 days for posting of comments
submitted by mail).
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms.
Amy G. Williams, Defense Acquisition
Regulations System, OUSD (AT&L)
DPAP/DARS, Room 3B855, 3060
Defense Pentagon, Washington, DC
20301–3060. Telephone 571–372–6106;
facsimile 571–372–6089.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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ADDRESSES:
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I. Background
This interim rule revises the DFARS
to implement sections 826 and 842 of
the National Defense Authorization Act
(NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2013 (Pub.
L. 112–239).
Section 826 requires compliance with
10 U.S.C. 2533a (the Berry Amendment)
in the case of any textile components
supplied by DoD to the Afghan National
Army or the Afghan National Police for
purposes of production of uniforms. The
law further states that no exception or
exemptions under that section shall
apply.
Section 842 modifies section 886 of
the NDAA for FY 2008 (Pub. L. 110–
181), which provided enhanced
authority to acquire products and
services from Iraq and Afghanistan in
support of operations in Iraq or
Afghanistan. Section 842 eliminates
application of the enhanced authority to
acquisition of products and services
from Iraq.
II. Discussion and Analysis
A. Revisions to DFARS Subpart 225.77
and Associated Provisions and Clauses
This interim rule amends the scope of
subpart 225.77 to reflect
implementation of sections 826 and 842
of the National Defense Authorization
Act for FY 2013 (Pub. L. 112–239).
1. Section 842
This interim rule amends the title of
subpart 225.77 to apply only to
operations in Afghanistan, and deletes
application of the policies and
procedures of that subpart to products
and services from Iraq.
At 225.7702 (now redesignated
225.7702–1), DoD has deleted the
references to the Army of Iraq, the Iraqi
Police Forces, and other Iraqi security
organizations. Although there was no
change to section 892 of the NDAA for
FY 2008, Competition for Procurement
of Small Arms Supplied to Iraq and
Afghanistan, there is no longer a need
for this coverage relating to Iraq in the
DFARS. DoD does not buy small arms
for any of these Iraqi organizations and
the enhanced authority to buy items in
support of operations in Iraq no longer
exists.
This interim rule deletes the reporting
requirements at section 225.7703–4 (and
redesignates 225.7703–5 as 225.7703–4).
The statutory requirement to report on
acquisitions using the methods in this
section expired at the end of FY 2009.
With regard to associated provisions
and clauses, DoD has deleted Alternate
I of DFARS 252.225–7021, Trade
Agreements; and DFARS 252.225–7022,
Trade Agreements Certificate—
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59855
Inclusion of Iraqi End Products, because
this clause and provision were only
necessary to allow the acquisition of
Iraqi end products when trade
agreements applied to the acquisition.
DFARS 252.225–7023, Preference for
Products or Services from Iraq or
Afghanistan; DFARS 252.225–7024,
Requirement for Products or Services
from Iraq or Afghanistan; and DFARS
252.225–7026, Acquisition Restricted to
Products or Services from Iraq or
Afghanistan, have been modified to
delete enhanced authority relating to
acquisitions of products or services from
of Iraq.
2. Section 826
This interim rule adds a new section
at 225.7702–2 to state the requirement
that any textile components supplied by
DoD to the Afghan National Army or the
Afghan National Police for purpose of
production of uniforms shall be
produced in the United States.
DFARS 225.7703–4(d) prescribes the
use of a new clause at DFARS 252.225–
7029, Acquisition of Uniform
Components for Afghan Military or
Afghan National Police, in solicitations
and contracts for the acquisition of any
textile components that DoD intends to
supply to the Afghan National Army or
the Afghan National Police for purposes
of production of uniforms.
The new clause at DFARS 252.225–
7029 defines ‘‘textile component’’ to
mean any item consisting of fibers,
yarns, or fabric, supplied for
incorporation into a uniform or a
component of a uniform. It does not
include items that do not contain fibers,
yarns, or fabric, such as the metallic or
plastic elements of buttons, zippers, or
other clothing fasteners. There is a
cross-reference to this definition added
at DFARS 225.7701.
The clause also states that there are no
exceptions or waivers to the
requirement that the contractor shall
deliver under this contract only textile
components that have been produced in
the United States.
B. Other Conforming Changes
In addition to the changes in DFARS
subpart 225.77 and the associated
provisions and clauses, conforming
changes were also required at DFARS
206.303–70, 212.301, 225.401, 225.502,
225.1101, 225.7501, and the clause
prefaces of 252.225–7032, 252.225–
7033, 252.225–7035, and 252.225–7036.
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III. Applicability to Acquisition of
Commercial Items and Acquisitions Not
Greater Than the Simplified
Acquisition Threshold
Section 826 states that 10 U.S.C.
2533a shall apply, and no exceptions or
exemptions under that section shall
apply. 10 U.S.C. 2533a (the Berry
Amendment) specifically states in
paragraph (i) that the statute is
applicable to contracts and subcontracts
for the procurement of commercial
items, notwithstanding section 1906 of
title 41. It does not specifically mention
41 U.S.C. 1907, which addresses
applicability to commercially available
off-the-shelf (COTS) items. However,
most of the items restricted by the Berry
Amendment are COTS items, and the
application of the Berry Amendment in
the DFARS has not included any
exception for COTS items. Although
paragraph (h) of the Berry Amendment
provides an exception for purchases in
amounts not greater than the simplified
acquisition threshold, section 826
requires application to acquisitions not
greater than the simplified acquisition
threshold, because it states that none of
the Berry Amendment exceptions apply.
IV. Executive Orders 12866 and 13563
Executive Orders (E.O.s) 12866 and
13563 direct agencies to assess all costs
and benefits of available regulatory
alternatives and, if regulation is
necessary, to select regulatory
approaches that maximize net benefits
(including potential economic,
environmental, public health and safety
effects, distributive impacts, and
equity). E.O. 13563 emphasizes the
importance of quantifying both costs
and benefits, of reducing costs, of
harmonizing rules, and of promoting
flexibility. This is not a significant
regulatory action and, therefore, was not
subject to review under section 6(b) of
E.O. 12866, Regulatory Planning and
Review, dated September 30, 1993. This
rule is not a major rule under 5 U.S.C.
804.
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V. Regulatory Flexibility Act
DoD does not expect this rule to have
a significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities
within the meaning of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 601, et seq.
However, an initial regulatory flexibility
analysis has been performed and is
summarized as follows:
This initial regulatory flexibility
analysis has been prepared consistent
with 5 U.S.C. 603. This rule implements
sections 826 and 842 of the National
Defense Authorization Act for FY 2013
(Pub. L. 112–239).
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The objective of the rule is to (1)
require compliance with domestic
source restrictions in the case of any
textile components supplied by DoD to
the Afghan National Army or the
Afghan National Police for purposes of
production of uniforms, and (2)
eliminate the application of the
enhanced authority to acquire products
and services from Iraq. The legal basis
is the above-cited statutes.
The number of small entities to be
affected by the rule is not known. The
rule has the potential to impact entities
that manufacture textile components, if
purchased by DoD to supply to the
Afghan National Army or the Afghan
National Police for purposes of
production of uniforms. Any impact is
expected to be beneficial, because it will
require purchase from a domestic
source.
There are no projected reporting,
recordkeeping, or other compliance
requirements. The rule does not
duplicate, overlap, or conflict with any
other Federal rules.
DoD was unable to identify any
significant alternatives consistent with
the stated objectives of the statute. DoD
does not anticipate any significant
economic impact on small entities. Any
impact is expected to be beneficial.
DoD invites comments from small
business concerns and other interested
parties on the expected impact of this
rule on small entities.
DoD will also consider comments
from small entities concerning the
existing regulations in subparts affected
by this rule in accordance with 5 U.S.C.
610. Interested parties must submit such
comments separately and should cite 5
U.S.C. 610 (DFARS Case 2013–D009), in
correspondence.
V. Paperwork Reduction Act
The rule contains information
collection requirements that require the
approval of the Office of Management
and Budget under the Paperwork
Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. chapter 35);
however, these changes to the DFARS
do not impose additional information
collection requirements to the
paperwork burden previously approved
under OMB Control Number 0704–0229,
entitled Defense Federal Acquisition
Regulation Supplement; Part 225 and
Related Clauses (Total approved burden
hours—57,135).
VI. Determination to Issue an Interim
Rule
A determination has been made under
the authority of the Secretary of Defense
that urgent and compelling reasons exist
to promulgate this interim rule without
prior opportunity for public comment.
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This action is necessary because
sections 826 and 842 of the NDAA for
FY 2013 were effective upon enactment
(January 2, 2013). If implementation is
delayed—
• Contracting officers may be
unaware that the existing exceptions to
the Berry Amendment no longer apply
in the case of DoD purchase of textile
components to be supplied to the
Afghan National Army or the Afghan
National Police for purpose of
production of uniforms. This may result
in purchases of foreign textile
components in violation of the law.
• Contracting officers may
erroneously provide a preference for the
products or services of Iraq, without
statutory authority. This will detract
from the efforts to appropriately use the
enhanced authority to acquire products
and services from Afghanistan and the
Central Asian states in support of
operations in Afghanistan.
The Commander, United States
Central Command (USCENTCOM), has
advised that procuring products or
services from the Central Asian states to
meet Operation ENDURING FREEDOM
requirements is critical to U.S. efforts to
gain access and permissions for
supporting current and future
operations in, to, and from Afghanistan.
USCENTCOM also advises that
procurements in the Central Asian states
support the USCENTCOM Theater
Campaign Plan and International
Security Assistance Force Civil Military
Campaign Plan, as well as long-term
economic development and stability in
the region.
However, pursuant to 41 U.S.C. 1707
and FAR 1.501–3(b), DoD will consider
public comments received in response
to this interim rule in the formation of
the final rule.
List of Subjects in 48 CFR Parts 206,
212, 225, and 252
Government procurement.
Manuel Quinones,
Editor, Defense Acquisition Regulations
System.
Therefore, 48 CFR parts 206, 212, 225,
and 252 are amended as follows:
■ 1. The authority citation for 48 CFR
parts 206, 212, 225, and 252 continues
to read as follows:
Authority: 41 U.S.C. 1303 and 48 CFR
Chapter 1.
PART 206—COMPETITION
REQUIREMENTS
2. Section 206.303–70 is amended by
revising the section heading the section
heading to read as follows:
■
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206.303–70 Acquisitions in support of
operations in Afghanistan.
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PART 212—ACQUISITION OF
COMMERCIAL ITEMS
3. Section 212.301 is amended by—
a. Revising paragraph (f)(xxvi);
b. Removing paragraph (f)(xxvii) and
redesignating paragraphs (f)(xxviii)
through (xxxii) as paragraphs (xxvii)
through (xxxi);
■ c. Revising newly redesignated
paragraphs (f)(xxvii) through (xxix);
■ d. Adding a new paragraph (f)(xxxii);
and
■ e. Revising paragraphs (f)(xxxiv) and
(xxxv).
The revisions and addition are as
follows:
■
■
■
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212.301 Solicitation provisions and
contract clauses for the acquisition of
commercial items.
(f) * * *
(xxvi) Use the clause at 252.225–7021,
Trade Agreements to comply with 19
U.S.C. 2501–2518 and 19 U.S.C. 3301
note.
(A) Use the basic clause as prescribed
in 225.1101(6)(i).
(B) Use the clause with its Alternate
II as prescribed in 225.1101(6)(ii).
(xxvii) Use the provision at 252.225–
7023, Preference for Products or
Services from Afghanistan, as
prescribed in 225.7703–4(a), to comply
with section 886 of the National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008
(Pub. L. 110–181).
(xxviii) Use the clause at 252.225–
7024, Requirement for Products or
Services from Afghanistan, as
prescribed in 225.7703–4(b), to comply
with section 886 of the National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008
(Pub. L. 110–181).
(xxix) Use the clause at 252.225–7026,
Acquisition Restricted to Products or
Services from Afghanistan, as
prescribed in 225.7703–4(c), to comply
with section 886 of the National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008
(Pub. L. 110–181).
*
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*
*
*
(xxxii) Use the clause at 252.225–
7029, Acquisition of Uniform
Components for Afghan Military or
Afghan National Police, as prescribed in
225.7703–4(d).
*
*
*
*
*
(xxxiv) Use the provision at 252.225–
7035, Buy American—Free Trade
Agreements—Balance of Payments
Program Certificate, to comply with 41
U.S.C. chapter 83 and 19 U.S.C. 3301
note. Alternates II, III, and V also
implement section 886 of the National
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Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal
Year 2008 (Pub. L. 110–181).
(A) Use the basic provision as
prescribed in 225.1101(9)(i).
(B) Use the provision with its
Alternate I as prescribed in
225.1101(9)(ii).
(C) Use the provision with its
Alternate II as prescribed in
225.1101(9)(iii).
(D) Use the provision with its
Alternate III as prescribed in
225.1101(9)(iv).
(E) Use the provision with its
Alternate IV as prescribed in
225.1101(9)(v).
(F) Use the provision with its
Alternate V as prescribed in
225.1101(9)(vi).
(xxxv) Use the clause at 252.225–
7036, Buy American—Free Trade
Agreements—Balance of Payments
Program to comply with 41 U.S.C.
chapter 83 and 19 U.S.C. 3301 note.
Alternates II, III, and V also implement
section 886 of the National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008
(Pub. L. 110–181).
(A) Use the basic clause as prescribed
in 225.1101(10)(i)(A).
(B) Use the clause with its Alternate
I as prescribed in 225.1101(10)(i)(B).
(C) Use the clause with its Alternate
II as prescribed in 225.1101(10)(i)(A).
(D) Use the clause with its Alternate
III as prescribed in 225.1101(10)(i)(B).
(E) Use the clause with its Alternate
IV as prescribed in 225.1101(10)(i)(C).
(F) Use the clause with its Alternate
V as prescribed in 225.1101(10)(i)(C).
*
*
*
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*
PART 225—FOREIGN ACQUISITION
4. Section 225.401–71 is revised as
follows:
■
225.401–71 Products or services in
support of operations in Afghanistan.
When acquiring products or services,
other than small arms, in support of
operations in Afghanistan, if using a
procedure specified in 225.7703–1(a)(2)
or (3), the procedures of subpart 25.4 are
not applicable.
225.502
[Amended]
5. Section 225.502(c)(iv) is amended
by removing the words ‘‘Iraq or’’.
■
225.1101
[Amended]
6. Section 225.1101 is amended by—
a. Removing in paragraph (5)(i) the
phrase ‘‘Except as provided in
paragraph (7) of this section, use’’ and
adding in its place ‘‘Use’’;
■ b. Removing paragraph (6)(ii) and
redesignating paragraphs (6) (iii)
through (v) as paragraphs (6)(ii) through
(iv);
■
■
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59857
c. In redesignated paragraph (6)(ii),
removing the phrase ‘‘and Alternate I is
not applicable’’;
■ d. In redesignated paragraph
(6)(iii)(B), removing the words ‘‘Iraq or’’;
■ e. Removing paragraph (7) and
redesignating paragraphs (8) through
(11) as paragraphs (7) through (10).
■ f. In redesignated paragraph (10)(i),
removing the phrase ‘‘paragraph
(11)(ii)’’ and adding in its place
‘‘paragraph (10)(ii)’’.
■
225.7501
[Amended]
6. Section 225.7501(a)(5) is amended
by removing the words ‘‘Iraq or’’.
■
Subpart 225.77 Acquisitions in Support
of Operations in Afghanistan
7. Subpart 225.77 heading is revised
to read as set forth above.
■
8. Section 225.7700 is revised to read
as follows:
■
225.7700
Scope.
This subpart implements—
(a) Section 892 of the National
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal
Year 2008 (Pub. L. 110–181);
(b) Section 886 of the National
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal
Year 2008 (Pub. L. 110–181), as
amended by section 842 of the National
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal
Year 2013 (Pub. L. 112–239);
(c) Section 826 of the National
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal
Year 2013 (Pub. L. 112–239); and
(d) The determinations by the Deputy
Secretary of Defense regarding
participation of the countries of the
South Caucasus or Central and South
Asia in acquisitions in support of
operations in Afghanistan.
9. Section 225.7701 is revised to read
as follows:
■
225.7701
Definitions.
As used in this subpart—
Product from Afghanistan means a
product that is mined, produced, or
manufactured in Afghanistan.
Service from Afghanistan means a
service including construction that is
performed in Afghanistan
predominantly by citizens or permanent
resident aliens of Afghanistan.
Small arms means pistols and other
weapons less than 0.50 caliber.
Source from Afghanistan means a
source that—
(1) Is located in Afghanistan; and
(2) Offers products or services from
Afghanistan.
Textile component is defined in the
clause at 252.225–7029, Acquisition of
Uniform Components for Afghan
Military or Afghan National Police.
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59858
225.7702
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 189 / Monday, September 30, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
[Redesignated as 225.7702–1]
10a. Redesignate section 225.7702 as
225.7702–1.
■ 10b. Add a new section 225.7702
heading to read as follows:
■
225.7702 Acquisitions not subject to the
enhanced authority to acquire products or
services from Afghanistan.
225.7702–1
[Amended]
10c. In redesignated section
225.7702–1(a), remove the phrases ‘‘the
Army of Iraq,’’, ‘‘the Iraqi Police
Forces,’’ and ‘‘Iraqi or’’.
■ 10d. Add a new section 225.7702–2 to
read as follows:
■
225.7702–2 Acquisition of uniform
components for the Afghan military or the
Afghan police.
Any textile components supplied by
DoD to the Afghan National Army or the
Afghan National Police for purpose of
production of uniforms shall be
produced in the United States.
11. Section 225.7703 heading is
revised to read as follows:
■
225.7703 Enhanced authority to acquire
products or services from Afghanistan.
225.7703–1
[Amended]
12. Section 225.7703–1 is amended—
a. In paragraph (a) introductory text by
adding the phrase ‘‘except as provided
in 225.7702,’’ after ‘‘225.7703–2,’’,
removing the phrases ‘‘, other than
small arms,’’ and ‘‘Iraq or’’, and
removing the comma after
‘‘Afghanistan’’;
■ b. In paragraph (a)(1) by removing the
words ‘‘Iraq or’’;
■ c. In paragraph (a)(2) by removing the
words ‘‘Iraq or’’; and
■ d. In paragraph (a)(3) by removing the
words ‘‘Iraq or’’.
■
■
225.7703–2
[Amended]
13. Section 225.7703–2 is amended—
a. In paragraph (a) introductory text by
removing the words ‘‘Iraq or’’;
■ b. In paragraph (a)(1) by removing the
words ‘‘Iraq or’’;
■ c. In paragraph (b) introductory text
by removing the words ‘‘Iraq or’’;
■ d. In paragraph (b)(1)(i) by removing
the words ‘‘Iraq or’’;
■ e. In paragraph (b)(1)(ii)(A) by
removing the words ‘‘Iraq or’’; and
■ f. By revising paragraph (b)(2)(ii)(E) to
read as follows:
mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES
■
■
25.7703–2
*
Determination requirements.
*
*
(b) * * *
(2) * * *
(ii) * * *
VerDate Mar<15>2010
*
*
16:39 Sep 27, 2013
Jkt 229001
(E) Commander of the United States
Central Command Joint Theater Support
Contracting Command (C–JTSCC).
*
*
*
*
*
14. Section 225.7703–3 is revised as
follows:
■
225.7703–3
Evaluating offers.
Evaluate offers submitted in response
to solicitations that include the
provision at 252.225–7023, Preference
for Products or Services from
Afghanistan, as follows:
(a) If the low offer is an offer of a
product or service from Afghanistan,
award on that offer.
(b) If there are no offers of a product
or service from Afghanistan, award on
the low offer.
(c) Otherwise, apply the evaluation
factor specified in the solicitation to the
low offer.
(1) If the price of the low offer of a
product or service from Afghanistan is
less than the evaluated price of the low
offer, award on the low offer of a
product or service from Afghanistan.
(2) If the evaluated price of the low
offer remains less than the low offer of
a product or service from Afghanistan,
award on the low offer.
(d) For acquisitions in support of
USCENTCOM, see PGI 225.7703–3.
225.7703–4
[Removed]
15a. Section 225.7703–4 is removed.
15b. Section 225.7703–5 is
redesignated as 225.7703–4 and revised
as follows:
■
■
225.7703–4 Solicitation provisions and
contract clauses.
(a) Use the provision at 252.225–7023,
Preference for Products or Services from
Afghanistan, in solicitations, including
solicitations using FAR part 12
procedures for the acquisition of
commercial items, that provide a
preference for products or services from
Afghanistan in accordance with
225.7703–1(a)(1). The contracting officer
may modify the 50 percent evaluation
factor in accordance with contracting
office procedures.
(b) Use the clause at 252.225–7024,
Requirement for Products or Services
from Afghanistan, in solicitations,
including solicitations using FAR part
12 procedures for the acquisition of
commercial items, that include the
provision at 252.225–7023, Preference
for Products or Services from
Afghanistan, and in the resulting
contract.
(c) Use the clause at 252.225–7026,
Acquisition Restricted to Products or
Services from Afghanistan, in
solicitations and contracts, including
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Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
solicitations and contracts using FAR
part 12 procedures for the acquisition of
commercial items, that—
(1) Are restricted to the acquisition of
products or services from Afghanistan
in accordance with 225.7703–1(a)(2); or
(2) Will be directed to a particular
source or sources from Afghanistan in
accordance with 225.7703–1(a)(3).
(d) Use the clause at 252.225–7029,
Acquisition of Uniform Components for
Afghan Military or Afghan National
Police, in solicitations and contracts,
including solicitations and contracts
using FAR part 12 procedures for the
acquisition of commercial items, for the
acquisition of any textile components
that DoD intends to supply to the
Afghan National Army or the Afghan
National Police for purposes of
production of uniforms.
(e) When the Trade Agreements Act
applies to the acquisition, use the
appropriate clause and provision as
prescribed at 225.1101 (5) and (6).
(f) Do not use any of the following
provisions or clauses in solicitations or
contracts that include the provision at
252.225–7023, the clause at 252.225–
7024, or the clause at 252.225–7026:
(1) 252.225–7000, Buy American
Act—Balance of Payments Program
Certificate.
(2) 252.225–7001, Buy American Act
and Balance of Payments Program.
(3) 252.225–7002, Qualifying Country
Sources as Subcontractors.
(4) 252.225–7035, Buy American
Act—Free Trade Agreements—Balance
of Payments Program Certificate.
(5) 252.225–7036, Buy American
Act—Free Trade Agreements—Balance
of Payments Program.
(6) 252.225–7044, Balance of
Payments Program—Construction
Material.
(7) 252.225–7045, Balance of
Payments Program—Construction
Material Under Trade Agreements.
(g) Do not use the following clause or
provision in solicitations or contracts
that include the clause at 252.225–7026:
(1) 252.225–7020, Trade Agreements
Certificate.
(2) 252.225–7021, Trade Agreements.
PART 252—SOLICITATION
PROVISIONS AND CONTRACT
CLAUSES
252.225–7021
[Amended]
16. Section 252.225–7021 is
amended—
■ a. By removing and reserving
Alternate I; and
■ b. In Alternate II, by removing in the
introductory text ‘‘225.1101(6)(iii)’’ and
adding in its place ‘‘225.1101(6)(ii)’’.
■
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 189 / Monday, September 30, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
252.225–7022
[Removed and Reserved]
252.225–7026 Acquisition Restricted to
Products or Services from Afghanistan.
■
17. Section 252.225–7022 is removed
and reserved.
As prescribed in 225.7703-4(c), use
the following clause:
■
18. Section 252.225–7023 is revised to
read as follows:
Acquisition Restricted to Products or
Services From Afghanistan (SEP 2013)
252.225–7023 Preference for Products or
Services from Afghanistan.
(a) Definitions. As used in this clause—
(1) ‘‘Product from Afghanistan’’ means a
product that is mined, produced, or
manufactured in Afghanistan.
(2) ‘‘Service from Afghanistan’’ means a
service including construction that is
performed in Afghanistan predominantly by
citizens or permanent resident aliens of
Afghanistan.
(b) The Contractor shall provide only
products from Afghanistan or services from
Afghanistan under this contract.
(End of clause)
As prescribed in 225.7703-4(a), use
the following provision:
Preference for Products or Services
From Afghanistan (SEP 2013)
(a) Definitions. ‘‘Product from
Afghanistan’’ and ‘‘service from
Afghanistan,’’ as used in this provision, are
defined in the clause of this solicitation
entitled ‘‘Requirement for Products or
Services from Afghanistan’’ (DFARS
252.225–7024).
(b) Representation. The offeror represents
that all products or services to be delivered
under a contract resulting from this
solicitation are products from Afghanistan or
services from Afghanistan, except those
listed in—
(1) Paragraph (c) of this provision; or
(2) Paragraph (c)(2) of the provision
entitled ‘‘Trade Agreements Certificate,’’ if
included in this solicitation.
(c) Other products or services. The
following offered products or services are not
products from Afghanistan or services from
Afghanistan:
(Line Item Number) (Country of Origin)
(d) Evaluation. For the purpose of
evaluating competitive offers, the Contracting
Officer will increase by 50 percent the prices
of offers of products or services that are not
products or services from Afghanistan.
(End of provision)
19. Section 252.225–7024 is revised to
read as follows:
■
252.225–7024 Requirement for Products or
Services from Afghanistan.
As prescribed in 225.7703-4(b), use
the following clause:
mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES
Requirement for Products or Services
From Afghanistan (SEP 2013)
20. Section 252.225–7026 is revised to
read as follows:
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16:39 Sep 27, 2013
Jkt 229001
252.225–7029 Acquisition of Uniform
Components for Afghan Military or Afghan
National Police.
As prescribed in 225.7703–4(d), use
the following clause:
Acquisition of Uniform Components for
the Afghan Military or the Afghan
National Police (SEP 2013)
(a) Definitions. As used in this clause—
‘‘Textile component’’ means any item
consisting of fibers, yarns, or fabric, supplied
for incorporation into a uniform or a
component of a uniform. It does not include
items that do not contain fibers, yarns, or
fabric, such as the metallic or plastic
elements of buttons, zippers, or other
clothing fasteners.
‘‘United States’’ means the 50 States, the
District of Columbia, and outlying areas.
(b) As required by section 826 of the
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal
Year 2013 (Pub. L. 112–239), the Contractor
shall deliver under this contract only textile
components that have been produced in the
United States.
(c) There are no exceptions or waivers to
this requirement.
(End of clause)
252.225–7032
(a) Definitions. As used in this clause—
(1) ‘‘Product from Afghanistan’’ means a
product that is mined, produced, or
manufactured in Afghanistan.
(2) ‘‘Service from Afghanistan’’ means a
service including construction that is
performed in Afghanistan predominantly by
citizens or permanent resident aliens of
Afghanistan.
(b) The Contractor shall provide only
products from Afghanistan or services from
Afghanistan under this contract, unless, in its
offer, it specified that it would provide
products or services other than products from
Afghanistan or services from Afghanistan.
(End of clause)
■
21. Section 252.225–7029 is added to
read as follows:
■
59859
b. In Alternate I, removing
‘‘225.1101(10)(ii)’’ in the introductory
text and adding in its place
‘‘225.1101(9)(ii)’’;
■ c. In Alternate II, removing
‘‘225.1101(10)(iii)’’ in the introductory
text and adding in its place
‘‘225.1101(9)(iii)’’;
■ d. In Alternate III, removing
‘‘225.1101(10)(iv)’’ in the introductory
text and adding in its place
‘‘225.1101(9)(iv)’’;
■ e. In Alternate IV, removing
‘‘225.1101(10)(v)’’ in the introductory
text and adding in its place
‘‘225.1101(9)(v)’’; and
■ f. In Alternate V, removing
‘‘225.1101(10)(vi)’’ in the introductory
text and adding in its place
‘‘225.1101(9)(vi)’’.
■
252.225–7036
[Amended]
25. Section 252.225–7036 is amended
by—
■ a. Removing ‘‘225.1101(11)(i)(A)’’ in
the introductory text and adding in its
place ‘‘225.1101(10)(i)(A)’’;
■ b. In Alternate I, removing
‘‘225.1101(11)(i)(B)’’ in the introductory
text and adding in its place
‘‘225.1101(10)(i)(B)’’;
■ c. In Alternate II, removing
‘‘225.1101(11)(i)(A)’’ in the introductory
text and adding in its place
‘‘225.1101(10)(i)(A)’’;
■ d. In Alternate III, removing
‘‘225.1101(11)(i)(B)’’ in the introductory
text and adding in its place
‘‘225.1101(10)(i)(B)’’;
■ e. In Alternate IV, removing
‘‘225.1101(11)(i)(C)’’ in the introductory
text and adding in its place
‘‘225.1101(10)(i)(C)’’; and
■ f. In Alternate V, removing
‘‘225.1101(11)(i)(C)’’ in the introductory
text and adding in its place
‘‘225.1101(10)(i)(C)’’.
■
[FR Doc. 2013–23743 Filed 9–27–13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 5001–06–P
[Amended]
22. In section 252.225–7032, the
introductory text is amended by
removing ‘‘225.1101(8)’’ and adding in
its place ‘‘225.1101(7)’’.
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
252.225–7033
48 CFR Parts 216 and 252
■
[Amended]
23. In section 252.225–7033, the
introductory text is amended by
removing ‘‘225.1101(9)’’ and adding in
its place ‘‘225.1101(8)’’.
Defense Acquisition Regulations
System
■
RIN 0750–AI04
252.225–7035
Defense Federal Acquisition
Regulation Supplement: Allowability of
Legal Costs for Whistleblower
Proceedings (DFARS Case 2013–D022)
[Amended]
24. Section 252.225–7035 is amended
by—
■ a. Removing ‘‘225.1101(10)(i)’’ in the
introductory text and adding in its place
‘‘225.1101(9)(i)’’;
■
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Defense Acquisition
Regulations System, Department of
Defense (DoD).
ACTION: Interim rule.
AGENCY:
E:\FR\FM\30SER1.SGM
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Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 189 (Monday, September 30, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 59854-59859]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-23743]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Defense Acquisition Regulations System
48 CFR Parts 206, 212, 225, and 252
RIN 0750-AH98
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement: Acquisitions
in Support of Operations in Afghanistan (DFARS Case 2013-D009)
AGENCY: Defense Acquisition Regulations System, Department of Defense
(DoD).
ACTION: Interim rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 59855]]
SUMMARY: DoD is issuing an interim rule amending the Defense Federal
Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to implement two sections of
the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013 that
require compliance with domestic source restrictions in the case of any
textile components supplied by DoD to the Afghan National Army or the
Afghan National Police for purposes of production of uniforms, and
eliminate the application of the enhanced authority to acquire products
and services from Iraq.
DATES: Effective Date: September 30, 2013.
Comment Date: Comments on the interim rule should be submitted in
writing to the address shown below on or before November 29, 2013, to
be considered in the formation of a final rule.
ADDRESSES: Submit comments identified by DFARS Case 2013-D009, using
any of the following methods:
[cir] Regulations.gov: https://www.regulations.gov. Submit comments
via the Federal eRulemaking portal by entering ``DFARS Case 2013-D009''
under the heading ``Enter keyword or ID'' and selecting ``Search.''
Select the link ``Submit a Comment'' that corresponds with ``DFARS Case
2013-D009.'' Follow the instructions provided at the ``Submit a
Comment'' screen. Please include your name, company name (if any), and
``DFARS Case 2013-D009'' on your attached document.
[cir] Email: dfars@osd.mil. Include DFARS Case 2013-D009 in the
subject line of the message.
[cir] Fax: 703-602-0350.
[cir] Mail: Defense Acquisition Regulations System, Attn: Ms. Amy
G. Williams, OUSD (AT&L) DPAP/DARS, Room 3B855, 3060 Defense Pentagon,
Washington, DC 20301-3060.
Comments received generally will be posted without change to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information provided. To
confirm receipt of your comment(s), please check www.regulations.gov,
approximately two to three days after submission to verify posting
(except allow 30 days for posting of comments submitted by mail).
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Amy G. Williams, Defense
Acquisition Regulations System, OUSD (AT&L) DPAP/DARS, Room 3B855, 3060
Defense Pentagon, Washington, DC 20301-3060. Telephone 571-372-6106;
facsimile 571-372-6089.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. Background
This interim rule revises the DFARS to implement sections 826 and
842 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year
(FY) 2013 (Pub. L. 112-239).
Section 826 requires compliance with 10 U.S.C. 2533a (the Berry
Amendment) in the case of any textile components supplied by DoD to the
Afghan National Army or the Afghan National Police for purposes of
production of uniforms. The law further states that no exception or
exemptions under that section shall apply.
Section 842 modifies section 886 of the NDAA for FY 2008 (Pub. L.
110-181), which provided enhanced authority to acquire products and
services from Iraq and Afghanistan in support of operations in Iraq or
Afghanistan. Section 842 eliminates application of the enhanced
authority to acquisition of products and services from Iraq.
II. Discussion and Analysis
A. Revisions to DFARS Subpart 225.77 and Associated Provisions and
Clauses
This interim rule amends the scope of subpart 225.77 to reflect
implementation of sections 826 and 842 of the National Defense
Authorization Act for FY 2013 (Pub. L. 112-239).
1. Section 842
This interim rule amends the title of subpart 225.77 to apply only
to operations in Afghanistan, and deletes application of the policies
and procedures of that subpart to products and services from Iraq.
At 225.7702 (now redesignated 225.7702-1), DoD has deleted the
references to the Army of Iraq, the Iraqi Police Forces, and other
Iraqi security organizations. Although there was no change to section
892 of the NDAA for FY 2008, Competition for Procurement of Small Arms
Supplied to Iraq and Afghanistan, there is no longer a need for this
coverage relating to Iraq in the DFARS. DoD does not buy small arms for
any of these Iraqi organizations and the enhanced authority to buy
items in support of operations in Iraq no longer exists.
This interim rule deletes the reporting requirements at section
225.7703-4 (and redesignates 225.7703-5 as 225.7703-4). The statutory
requirement to report on acquisitions using the methods in this section
expired at the end of FY 2009.
With regard to associated provisions and clauses, DoD has deleted
Alternate I of DFARS 252.225-7021, Trade Agreements; and DFARS 252.225-
7022, Trade Agreements Certificate--Inclusion of Iraqi End Products,
because this clause and provision were only necessary to allow the
acquisition of Iraqi end products when trade agreements applied to the
acquisition.
DFARS 252.225-7023, Preference for Products or Services from Iraq
or Afghanistan; DFARS 252.225-7024, Requirement for Products or
Services from Iraq or Afghanistan; and DFARS 252.225-7026, Acquisition
Restricted to Products or Services from Iraq or Afghanistan, have been
modified to delete enhanced authority relating to acquisitions of
products or services from of Iraq.
2. Section 826
This interim rule adds a new section at 225.7702-2 to state the
requirement that any textile components supplied by DoD to the Afghan
National Army or the Afghan National Police for purpose of production
of uniforms shall be produced in the United States.
DFARS 225.7703-4(d) prescribes the use of a new clause at DFARS
252.225-7029, Acquisition of Uniform Components for Afghan Military or
Afghan National Police, in solicitations and contracts for the
acquisition of any textile components that DoD intends to supply to the
Afghan National Army or the Afghan National Police for purposes of
production of uniforms.
The new clause at DFARS 252.225-7029 defines ``textile component''
to mean any item consisting of fibers, yarns, or fabric, supplied for
incorporation into a uniform or a component of a uniform. It does not
include items that do not contain fibers, yarns, or fabric, such as the
metallic or plastic elements of buttons, zippers, or other clothing
fasteners. There is a cross-reference to this definition added at DFARS
225.7701.
The clause also states that there are no exceptions or waivers to
the requirement that the contractor shall deliver under this contract
only textile components that have been produced in the United States.
B. Other Conforming Changes
In addition to the changes in DFARS subpart 225.77 and the
associated provisions and clauses, conforming changes were also
required at DFARS 206.303-70, 212.301, 225.401, 225.502, 225.1101,
225.7501, and the clause prefaces of 252.225-7032, 252.225-7033,
252.225-7035, and 252.225-7036.
[[Page 59856]]
III. Applicability to Acquisition of Commercial Items and Acquisitions
Not Greater Than the Simplified Acquisition Threshold
Section 826 states that 10 U.S.C. 2533a shall apply, and no
exceptions or exemptions under that section shall apply. 10 U.S.C.
2533a (the Berry Amendment) specifically states in paragraph (i) that
the statute is applicable to contracts and subcontracts for the
procurement of commercial items, notwithstanding section 1906 of title
41. It does not specifically mention 41 U.S.C. 1907, which addresses
applicability to commercially available off-the-shelf (COTS) items.
However, most of the items restricted by the Berry Amendment are COTS
items, and the application of the Berry Amendment in the DFARS has not
included any exception for COTS items. Although paragraph (h) of the
Berry Amendment provides an exception for purchases in amounts not
greater than the simplified acquisition threshold, section 826 requires
application to acquisitions not greater than the simplified acquisition
threshold, because it states that none of the Berry Amendment
exceptions apply.
IV. Executive Orders 12866 and 13563
Executive Orders (E.O.s) 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess
all costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if
regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize
net benefits (including potential economic, environmental, public
health and safety effects, distributive impacts, and equity). E.O.
13563 emphasizes the importance of quantifying both costs and benefits,
of reducing costs, of harmonizing rules, and of promoting flexibility.
This is not a significant regulatory action and, therefore, was not
subject to review under section 6(b) of E.O. 12866, Regulatory Planning
and Review, dated September 30, 1993. This rule is not a major rule
under 5 U.S.C. 804.
V. Regulatory Flexibility Act
DoD does not expect this rule to have a significant economic impact
on a substantial number of small entities within the meaning of the
Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 601, et seq. However, an initial
regulatory flexibility analysis has been performed and is summarized as
follows:
This initial regulatory flexibility analysis has been prepared
consistent with 5 U.S.C. 603. This rule implements sections 826 and 842
of the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2013 (Pub. L. 112-
239).
The objective of the rule is to (1) require compliance with
domestic source restrictions in the case of any textile components
supplied by DoD to the Afghan National Army or the Afghan National
Police for purposes of production of uniforms, and (2) eliminate the
application of the enhanced authority to acquire products and services
from Iraq. The legal basis is the above-cited statutes.
The number of small entities to be affected by the rule is not
known. The rule has the potential to impact entities that manufacture
textile components, if purchased by DoD to supply to the Afghan
National Army or the Afghan National Police for purposes of production
of uniforms. Any impact is expected to be beneficial, because it will
require purchase from a domestic source.
There are no projected reporting, recordkeeping, or other
compliance requirements. The rule does not duplicate, overlap, or
conflict with any other Federal rules.
DoD was unable to identify any significant alternatives consistent
with the stated objectives of the statute. DoD does not anticipate any
significant economic impact on small entities. Any impact is expected
to be beneficial.
DoD invites comments from small business concerns and other
interested parties on the expected impact of this rule on small
entities.
DoD will also consider comments from small entities concerning the
existing regulations in subparts affected by this rule in accordance
with 5 U.S.C. 610. Interested parties must submit such comments
separately and should cite 5 U.S.C. 610 (DFARS Case 2013-D009), in
correspondence.
V. Paperwork Reduction Act
The rule contains information collection requirements that require
the approval of the Office of Management and Budget under the Paperwork
Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. chapter 35); however, these changes to the
DFARS do not impose additional information collection requirements to
the paperwork burden previously approved under OMB Control Number 0704-
0229, entitled Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement; Part
225 and Related Clauses (Total approved burden hours--57,135).
VI. Determination to Issue an Interim Rule
A determination has been made under the authority of the Secretary
of Defense that urgent and compelling reasons exist to promulgate this
interim rule without prior opportunity for public comment. This action
is necessary because sections 826 and 842 of the NDAA for FY 2013 were
effective upon enactment (January 2, 2013). If implementation is
delayed--
Contracting officers may be unaware that the existing
exceptions to the Berry Amendment no longer apply in the case of DoD
purchase of textile components to be supplied to the Afghan National
Army or the Afghan National Police for purpose of production of
uniforms. This may result in purchases of foreign textile components in
violation of the law.
Contracting officers may erroneously provide a preference
for the products or services of Iraq, without statutory authority. This
will detract from the efforts to appropriately use the enhanced
authority to acquire products and services from Afghanistan and the
Central Asian states in support of operations in Afghanistan.
The Commander, United States Central Command (USCENTCOM), has
advised that procuring products or services from the Central Asian
states to meet Operation ENDURING FREEDOM requirements is critical to
U.S. efforts to gain access and permissions for supporting current and
future operations in, to, and from Afghanistan. USCENTCOM also advises
that procurements in the Central Asian states support the USCENTCOM
Theater Campaign Plan and International Security Assistance Force Civil
Military Campaign Plan, as well as long-term economic development and
stability in the region.
However, pursuant to 41 U.S.C. 1707 and FAR 1.501-3(b), DoD will
consider public comments received in response to this interim rule in
the formation of the final rule.
List of Subjects in 48 CFR Parts 206, 212, 225, and 252
Government procurement.
Manuel Quinones,
Editor, Defense Acquisition Regulations System.
Therefore, 48 CFR parts 206, 212, 225, and 252 are amended as
follows:
0
1. The authority citation for 48 CFR parts 206, 212, 225, and 252
continues to read as follows:
Authority: 41 U.S.C. 1303 and 48 CFR Chapter 1.
PART 206--COMPETITION REQUIREMENTS
0
2. Section 206.303-70 is amended by revising the section heading the
section heading to read as follows:
[[Page 59857]]
206.303-70 Acquisitions in support of operations in Afghanistan.
* * * * *
PART 212--ACQUISITION OF COMMERCIAL ITEMS
0
3. Section 212.301 is amended by--
0
a. Revising paragraph (f)(xxvi);
0
b. Removing paragraph (f)(xxvii) and redesignating paragraphs
(f)(xxviii) through (xxxii) as paragraphs (xxvii) through (xxxi);
0
c. Revising newly redesignated paragraphs (f)(xxvii) through (xxix);
0
d. Adding a new paragraph (f)(xxxii); and
0
e. Revising paragraphs (f)(xxxiv) and (xxxv).
The revisions and addition are as follows:
212.301 Solicitation provisions and contract clauses for the
acquisition of commercial items.
(f) * * *
(xxvi) Use the clause at 252.225-7021, Trade Agreements to comply
with 19 U.S.C. 2501-2518 and 19 U.S.C. 3301 note.
(A) Use the basic clause as prescribed in 225.1101(6)(i).
(B) Use the clause with its Alternate II as prescribed in
225.1101(6)(ii).
(xxvii) Use the provision at 252.225-7023, Preference for Products
or Services from Afghanistan, as prescribed in 225.7703-4(a), to comply
with section 886 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal
Year 2008 (Pub. L. 110-181).
(xxviii) Use the clause at 252.225-7024, Requirement for Products
or Services from Afghanistan, as prescribed in 225.7703-4(b), to comply
with section 886 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal
Year 2008 (Pub. L. 110-181).
(xxix) Use the clause at 252.225-7026, Acquisition Restricted to
Products or Services from Afghanistan, as prescribed in 225.7703-4(c),
to comply with section 886 of the National Defense Authorization Act
for Fiscal Year 2008 (Pub. L. 110-181).
* * * * *
(xxxii) Use the clause at 252.225-7029, Acquisition of Uniform
Components for Afghan Military or Afghan National Police, as prescribed
in 225.7703-4(d).
* * * * *
(xxxiv) Use the provision at 252.225-7035, Buy American--Free Trade
Agreements--Balance of Payments Program Certificate, to comply with 41
U.S.C. chapter 83 and 19 U.S.C. 3301 note. Alternates II, III, and V
also implement section 886 of the National Defense Authorization Act
for Fiscal Year 2008 (Pub. L. 110-181).
(A) Use the basic provision as prescribed in 225.1101(9)(i).
(B) Use the provision with its Alternate I as prescribed in
225.1101(9)(ii).
(C) Use the provision with its Alternate II as prescribed in
225.1101(9)(iii).
(D) Use the provision with its Alternate III as prescribed in
225.1101(9)(iv).
(E) Use the provision with its Alternate IV as prescribed in
225.1101(9)(v).
(F) Use the provision with its Alternate V as prescribed in
225.1101(9)(vi).
(xxxv) Use the clause at 252.225-7036, Buy American--Free Trade
Agreements--Balance of Payments Program to comply with 41 U.S.C.
chapter 83 and 19 U.S.C. 3301 note. Alternates II, III, and V also
implement section 886 of the National Defense Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 2008 (Pub. L. 110-181).
(A) Use the basic clause as prescribed in 225.1101(10)(i)(A).
(B) Use the clause with its Alternate I as prescribed in
225.1101(10)(i)(B).
(C) Use the clause with its Alternate II as prescribed in
225.1101(10)(i)(A).
(D) Use the clause with its Alternate III as prescribed in
225.1101(10)(i)(B).
(E) Use the clause with its Alternate IV as prescribed in
225.1101(10)(i)(C).
(F) Use the clause with its Alternate V as prescribed in
225.1101(10)(i)(C).
* * * * *
PART 225--FOREIGN ACQUISITION
0
4. Section 225.401-71 is revised as follows:
225.401-71 Products or services in support of operations in
Afghanistan.
When acquiring products or services, other than small arms, in
support of operations in Afghanistan, if using a procedure specified in
225.7703-1(a)(2) or (3), the procedures of subpart 25.4 are not
applicable.
225.502 [Amended]
0
5. Section 225.502(c)(iv) is amended by removing the words ``Iraq or''.
225.1101 [Amended]
0
6. Section 225.1101 is amended by--
0
a. Removing in paragraph (5)(i) the phrase ``Except as provided in
paragraph (7) of this section, use'' and adding in its place ``Use'';
0
b. Removing paragraph (6)(ii) and redesignating paragraphs (6) (iii)
through (v) as paragraphs (6)(ii) through (iv);
0
c. In redesignated paragraph (6)(ii), removing the phrase ``and
Alternate I is not applicable'';
0
d. In redesignated paragraph (6)(iii)(B), removing the words ``Iraq
or'';
0
e. Removing paragraph (7) and redesignating paragraphs (8) through (11)
as paragraphs (7) through (10).
0
f. In redesignated paragraph (10)(i), removing the phrase ``paragraph
(11)(ii)'' and adding in its place ``paragraph (10)(ii)''.
225.7501 [Amended]
0
6. Section 225.7501(a)(5) is amended by removing the words ``Iraq or''.
Subpart 225.77 Acquisitions in Support of Operations in Afghanistan
0
7. Subpart 225.77 heading is revised to read as set forth above.
0
8. Section 225.7700 is revised to read as follows:
225.7700 Scope.
This subpart implements--
(a) Section 892 of the National Defense Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 2008 (Pub. L. 110-181);
(b) Section 886 of the National Defense Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 2008 (Pub. L. 110-181), as amended by section 842 of the
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013 (Pub. L. 112-
239);
(c) Section 826 of the National Defense Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 2013 (Pub. L. 112-239); and
(d) The determinations by the Deputy Secretary of Defense regarding
participation of the countries of the South Caucasus or Central and
South Asia in acquisitions in support of operations in Afghanistan.
0
9. Section 225.7701 is revised to read as follows:
225.7701 Definitions.
As used in this subpart--
Product from Afghanistan means a product that is mined, produced,
or manufactured in Afghanistan.
Service from Afghanistan means a service including construction
that is performed in Afghanistan predominantly by citizens or permanent
resident aliens of Afghanistan.
Small arms means pistols and other weapons less than 0.50 caliber.
Source from Afghanistan means a source that--
(1) Is located in Afghanistan; and
(2) Offers products or services from Afghanistan.
Textile component is defined in the clause at 252.225-7029,
Acquisition of Uniform Components for Afghan Military or Afghan
National Police.
[[Page 59858]]
225.7702 [Redesignated as 225.7702-1]
0
10a. Redesignate section 225.7702 as 225.7702-1.
0
10b. Add a new section 225.7702 heading to read as follows:
225.7702 Acquisitions not subject to the enhanced authority to acquire
products or services from Afghanistan.
225.7702-1 [Amended]
0
10c. In redesignated section 225.7702-1(a), remove the phrases ``the
Army of Iraq,'', ``the Iraqi Police Forces,'' and ``Iraqi or''.
0
10d. Add a new section 225.7702-2 to read as follows:
225.7702-2 Acquisition of uniform components for the Afghan military
or the Afghan police.
Any textile components supplied by DoD to the Afghan National Army
or the Afghan National Police for purpose of production of uniforms
shall be produced in the United States.
0
11. Section 225.7703 heading is revised to read as follows:
225.7703 Enhanced authority to acquire products or services from
Afghanistan.
225.7703-1 [Amended]
0
12. Section 225.7703-1 is amended--
0
a. In paragraph (a) introductory text by adding the phrase ``except as
provided in 225.7702,'' after ``225.7703-2,'', removing the phrases ``,
other than small arms,'' and ``Iraq or'', and removing the comma after
``Afghanistan'';
0
b. In paragraph (a)(1) by removing the words ``Iraq or'';
0
c. In paragraph (a)(2) by removing the words ``Iraq or''; and
0
d. In paragraph (a)(3) by removing the words ``Iraq or''.
225.7703-2 [Amended]
0
13. Section 225.7703-2 is amended--
0
a. In paragraph (a) introductory text by removing the words ``Iraq
or'';
0
b. In paragraph (a)(1) by removing the words ``Iraq or'';
0
c. In paragraph (b) introductory text by removing the words ``Iraq
or'';
0
d. In paragraph (b)(1)(i) by removing the words ``Iraq or'';
0
e. In paragraph (b)(1)(ii)(A) by removing the words ``Iraq or''; and
0
f. By revising paragraph (b)(2)(ii)(E) to read as follows:
25.7703-2 Determination requirements.
* * * * *
(b) * * *
(2) * * *
(ii) * * *
(E) Commander of the United States Central Command Joint Theater
Support Contracting Command (C-JTSCC).
* * * * *
0
14. Section 225.7703-3 is revised as follows:
225.7703-3 Evaluating offers.
Evaluate offers submitted in response to solicitations that include
the provision at 252.225-7023, Preference for Products or Services from
Afghanistan, as follows:
(a) If the low offer is an offer of a product or service from
Afghanistan, award on that offer.
(b) If there are no offers of a product or service from
Afghanistan, award on the low offer.
(c) Otherwise, apply the evaluation factor specified in the
solicitation to the low offer.
(1) If the price of the low offer of a product or service from
Afghanistan is less than the evaluated price of the low offer, award on
the low offer of a product or service from Afghanistan.
(2) If the evaluated price of the low offer remains less than the
low offer of a product or service from Afghanistan, award on the low
offer.
(d) For acquisitions in support of USCENTCOM, see PGI 225.7703-3.
225.7703-4 [Removed]
0
15a. Section 225.7703-4 is removed.
0
15b. Section 225.7703-5 is redesignated as 225.7703-4 and revised as
follows:
225.7703-4 Solicitation provisions and contract clauses.
(a) Use the provision at 252.225-7023, Preference for Products or
Services from Afghanistan, in solicitations, including solicitations
using FAR part 12 procedures for the acquisition of commercial items,
that provide a preference for products or services from Afghanistan in
accordance with 225.7703-1(a)(1). The contracting officer may modify
the 50 percent evaluation factor in accordance with contracting office
procedures.
(b) Use the clause at 252.225-7024, Requirement for Products or
Services from Afghanistan, in solicitations, including solicitations
using FAR part 12 procedures for the acquisition of commercial items,
that include the provision at 252.225-7023, Preference for Products or
Services from Afghanistan, and in the resulting contract.
(c) Use the clause at 252.225-7026, Acquisition Restricted to
Products or Services from Afghanistan, in solicitations and contracts,
including solicitations and contracts using FAR part 12 procedures for
the acquisition of commercial items, that--
(1) Are restricted to the acquisition of products or services from
Afghanistan in accordance with 225.7703-1(a)(2); or
(2) Will be directed to a particular source or sources from
Afghanistan in accordance with 225.7703-1(a)(3).
(d) Use the clause at 252.225-7029, Acquisition of Uniform
Components for Afghan Military or Afghan National Police, in
solicitations and contracts, including solicitations and contracts
using FAR part 12 procedures for the acquisition of commercial items,
for the acquisition of any textile components that DoD intends to
supply to the Afghan National Army or the Afghan National Police for
purposes of production of uniforms.
(e) When the Trade Agreements Act applies to the acquisition, use
the appropriate clause and provision as prescribed at 225.1101 (5) and
(6).
(f) Do not use any of the following provisions or clauses in
solicitations or contracts that include the provision at 252.225-7023,
the clause at 252.225-7024, or the clause at 252.225-7026:
(1) 252.225-7000, Buy American Act--Balance of Payments Program
Certificate.
(2) 252.225-7001, Buy American Act and Balance of Payments Program.
(3) 252.225-7002, Qualifying Country Sources as Subcontractors.
(4) 252.225-7035, Buy American Act--Free Trade Agreements--Balance
of Payments Program Certificate.
(5) 252.225-7036, Buy American Act--Free Trade Agreements--Balance
of Payments Program.
(6) 252.225-7044, Balance of Payments Program--Construction
Material.
(7) 252.225-7045, Balance of Payments Program--Construction
Material Under Trade Agreements.
(g) Do not use the following clause or provision in solicitations
or contracts that include the clause at 252.225-7026:
(1) 252.225-7020, Trade Agreements Certificate.
(2) 252.225-7021, Trade Agreements.
PART 252--SOLICITATION PROVISIONS AND CONTRACT CLAUSES
252.225-7021 [Amended]
0
16. Section 252.225-7021 is amended--
0
a. By removing and reserving Alternate I; and
0
b. In Alternate II, by removing in the introductory text
``225.1101(6)(iii)'' and adding in its place ``225.1101(6)(ii)''.
[[Page 59859]]
252.225-7022 [Removed and Reserved]
0
17. Section 252.225-7022 is removed and reserved.
0
18. Section 252.225-7023 is revised to read as follows:
252.225-7023 Preference for Products or Services from Afghanistan.
As prescribed in 225.7703-4(a), use the following provision:
Preference for Products or Services From Afghanistan (SEP 2013)
(a) Definitions. ``Product from Afghanistan'' and ``service from
Afghanistan,'' as used in this provision, are defined in the clause
of this solicitation entitled ``Requirement for Products or Services
from Afghanistan'' (DFARS 252.225-7024).
(b) Representation. The offeror represents that all products or
services to be delivered under a contract resulting from this
solicitation are products from Afghanistan or services from
Afghanistan, except those listed in--
(1) Paragraph (c) of this provision; or
(2) Paragraph (c)(2) of the provision entitled ``Trade
Agreements Certificate,'' if included in this solicitation.
(c) Other products or services. The following offered products
or services are not products from Afghanistan or services from
Afghanistan:
(Line Item Number) (Country of Origin)
(d) Evaluation. For the purpose of evaluating competitive
offers, the Contracting Officer will increase by 50 percent the
prices of offers of products or services that are not products or
services from Afghanistan.
(End of provision)
0
19. Section 252.225-7024 is revised to read as follows:
252.225-7024 Requirement for Products or Services from Afghanistan.
As prescribed in 225.7703-4(b), use the following clause:
Requirement for Products or Services From Afghanistan (SEP 2013)
(a) Definitions. As used in this clause--
(1) ``Product from Afghanistan'' means a product that is mined,
produced, or manufactured in Afghanistan.
(2) ``Service from Afghanistan'' means a service including
construction that is performed in Afghanistan predominantly by
citizens or permanent resident aliens of Afghanistan.
(b) The Contractor shall provide only products from Afghanistan
or services from Afghanistan under this contract, unless, in its
offer, it specified that it would provide products or services other
than products from Afghanistan or services from Afghanistan.
(End of clause)
0
20. Section 252.225-7026 is revised to read as follows:
252.225-7026 Acquisition Restricted to Products or Services from
Afghanistan.
As prescribed in 225.7703-4(c), use the following clause:
Acquisition Restricted to Products or Services From Afghanistan (SEP
2013)
(a) Definitions. As used in this clause--
(1) ``Product from Afghanistan'' means a product that is mined,
produced, or manufactured in Afghanistan.
(2) ``Service from Afghanistan'' means a service including
construction that is performed in Afghanistan predominantly by
citizens or permanent resident aliens of Afghanistan.
(b) The Contractor shall provide only products from Afghanistan
or services from Afghanistan under this contract.
(End of clause)
0
21. Section 252.225-7029 is added to read as follows:
252.225-7029 Acquisition of Uniform Components for Afghan Military or
Afghan National Police.
As prescribed in 225.7703-4(d), use the following clause:
Acquisition of Uniform Components for the Afghan Military or the Afghan
National Police (SEP 2013)
(a) Definitions. As used in this clause--
``Textile component'' means any item consisting of fibers,
yarns, or fabric, supplied for incorporation into a uniform or a
component of a uniform. It does not include items that do not
contain fibers, yarns, or fabric, such as the metallic or plastic
elements of buttons, zippers, or other clothing fasteners.
``United States'' means the 50 States, the District of Columbia,
and outlying areas.
(b) As required by section 826 of the National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013 (Pub. L. 112-239), the
Contractor shall deliver under this contract only textile components
that have been produced in the United States.
(c) There are no exceptions or waivers to this requirement.
(End of clause)
252.225-7032 [Amended]
0
22. In section 252.225-7032, the introductory text is amended by
removing ``225.1101(8)'' and adding in its place ``225.1101(7)''.
252.225-7033 [Amended]
0
23. In section 252.225-7033, the introductory text is amended by
removing ``225.1101(9)'' and adding in its place ``225.1101(8)''.
252.225-7035 [Amended]
0
24. Section 252.225-7035 is amended by--
0
a. Removing ``225.1101(10)(i)'' in the introductory text and adding in
its place ``225.1101(9)(i)'';
0
b. In Alternate I, removing ``225.1101(10)(ii)'' in the introductory
text and adding in its place ``225.1101(9)(ii)'';
0
c. In Alternate II, removing ``225.1101(10)(iii)'' in the introductory
text and adding in its place ``225.1101(9)(iii)'';
0
d. In Alternate III, removing ``225.1101(10)(iv)'' in the introductory
text and adding in its place ``225.1101(9)(iv)'';
0
e. In Alternate IV, removing ``225.1101(10)(v)'' in the introductory
text and adding in its place ``225.1101(9)(v)''; and
0
f. In Alternate V, removing ``225.1101(10)(vi)'' in the introductory
text and adding in its place ``225.1101(9)(vi)''.
252.225-7036 [Amended]
0
25. Section 252.225-7036 is amended by--
0
a. Removing ``225.1101(11)(i)(A)'' in the introductory text and adding
in its place ``225.1101(10)(i)(A)'';
0
b. In Alternate I, removing ``225.1101(11)(i)(B)'' in the introductory
text and adding in its place ``225.1101(10)(i)(B)'';
0
c. In Alternate II, removing ``225.1101(11)(i)(A)'' in the introductory
text and adding in its place ``225.1101(10)(i)(A)'';
0
d. In Alternate III, removing ``225.1101(11)(i)(B)'' in the
introductory text and adding in its place ``225.1101(10)(i)(B)'';
0
e. In Alternate IV, removing ``225.1101(11)(i)(C)'' in the introductory
text and adding in its place ``225.1101(10)(i)(C)''; and
0
f. In Alternate V, removing ``225.1101(11)(i)(C)'' in the introductory
text and adding in its place ``225.1101(10)(i)(C)''.
[FR Doc. 2013-23743 Filed 9-27-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 5001-06-P