Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement: Item Unique Identifier Update (DFARS Case 2011-D055), 76067-76074 [2013-29771]
Download as PDF
76067
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 241 / Monday, December 16, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
EPA-APPROVED MICHIGAN REGULATIONS—Continued
Title
*
*
State effective
date
EPA approval date
*
Michigan citation
*
*
Comments
*
*
Part 19. New Source Review for Major Sources Impacting Nonattainment Areas
R 336.2901 ..................................
Definitions ....................................
6/20/2008
R 336.2901a ................................
Adoption by reference .................
6/20/2008
R 336.2902 ..................................
Applicability ..................................
6/20/2008
R 336.2903 ..................................
Additional permit requirements
for sources impacting nonattainment areas.
6/20/2008
R 336.2907 ..................................
Plantwide applicability limits or
PALs.
6/20/2008
R 336.2908 ..................................
Conditions for approval of a
major new source review permit in a nonattainment area.
6/20/2008
12/16/2013, [INSERT
PAGE NUMBER
WHERE THE DOCUMENT BEGINS].
12/16/2013, [INSERT
PAGE NUMBER
WHERE THE DOCUMENT BEGINS].
12/16/2013, [INSERT
PAGE NUMBER
WHERE THE DOCUMENT BEGINS].
12/16/2013, [INSERT
PAGE NUMBER
WHERE THE DOCUMENT BEGINS].
12/16/2013, [INSERT
PAGE NUMBER
WHERE THE DOCUMENT BEGINS].
12/16/2013, [INSERT
PAGE NUMBER
WHERE THE DOCUMENT BEGINS].
[FR Doc. 2013–29555 Filed 12–13–13; 8:45 am]
I. Background
BILLING CODE 6560–50–P
DoD published a proposed rule in the
Federal Register at 77 FR 35921 on June
15, 2012. The comment period closed
on August 14, 2012. This rule proposed
to revise the prescription and the clause
at DFARS 252.211–7003 to update and
clarify instructions for the identification
and valuation processes. Five
respondents submitted public
comments in response to the proposed
rule.
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Defense Acquisition Regulations
System
48 CFR Parts 211, 212, 218, 246, 252,
and Appendix F to Chapter 2
RIN 0750–AH64
II. Discussion and Analysis
Defense Federal Acquisition
Regulation Supplement: Item Unique
Identifier Update (DFARS Case 2011–
D055)
DoD reviewed the public comments in
the development of the final rule. A
discussion of the comments and the
changes made to the rule as a result of
those comments is provided, as follows.
Defense Acquisition
Regulations System, Department of
Defense (DoD).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
A. Summary of Significant Changes
DoD is issuing a final rule
amending the Defense Federal
Acquisition Regulation Supplement
(DFARS) to update and clarify
requirements for unique identification
and valuation of items delivered under
DoD contracts.
DATES: Effective December 16, 2013.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr.
Dustin Pitsch, telephone 571–372–6090.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
The final rule incorporates the
following significant changes from the
proposed rule:
• Paragraphs 211.274–2(a)(2) and (3)
are revised to consolidate requirements.
• The definition of ‘‘data matrix’’
within the clause at 252.211–7003 is
modified from the proposed rule to
clarify the specification with which
contractors must comply.
• The words ‘‘at its own expense’’ at
252.211–7003(c)(1)(v) are removed as a
result of a public comment.
• The statement ‘‘or registered in the
DoD Item Unique Identification
pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES
SUMMARY:
VerDate Mar<15>2010
13:31 Dec 13, 2013
Jkt 232001
PO 00000
Frm 00037
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Registry’’ is added at 252.211–
7003(c)(2).
• The phrase ‘‘ECC200 data matrix
specification’’ is added at 252.211–
7003(c)(3) to note the exact specification
within the listed standard.
• 252.211–7003(c)(5)(D) is revised to
read ‘‘Verify that the marks on items
and labels on shipments, storage
containers, and packages are machine
readable and conform to the applicable
standards. The contractor shall use an
automatic identification technology
device for this verification that has been
programmed to the requirements of
Appendix A, MIL–STD–130, latest
version.’’
• 252.211–7003(f)(1) is revised to
include the sentence ‘‘If WAWF is not
required by this contract, and the
contractor is not using WAWF, follow
the procedure at https://
dodprocurementtoolbox.com/site/
uidregistry/.’’
• 252.211–7003(f)(2)(ii) is revised to
clarify that a fill-in is necessary when
this circumstance applies.
• Changes previously proposed to
update the Web site at 252.225–
7039(b)(1)(ii)(B) are no longer required
as DFARS final rule 2013–D037
published November 18, 2013 deleted
this clause as coverage is now located in
the FAR.
• In Appendix F–103(e)(1), the last
sentence is revised to read ‘‘WAWF
E:\FR\FM\16DER1.SGM
16DER1
76068
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 241 / Monday, December 16, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
shall be used to report Unique Item
Identifiers (UIIs) at the line item level,
unless an exception to WAWF applies,
and can also be used to report UIIs
embedded at the line item level.’’
• In Appendix F paragraph F–
301(b)(18)(i), the fifth sentence in this
paragraph is revised to read: ‘‘However,
if the contract has Item Unique
Identification (IUID) requirements and
the receiving report is being processed
in WAWF the unit price must represent
the acquisition cost that will be
recorded in the IUID registry.’’ This
change is being made to ensure the
instructions in Appendix F conform to
the coverage in the clause.
B. Analysis of Public Comments
1. Commercial Provision/Clause List
Comment: One respondent noted that
DFARS clause 252.211–7003 is in the
commercial provision/clause list at
DFARS 212.301(f)(iv), and
recommended that clause 252.211–7007
be added.
Response: Clause 252.211–7007 was
added on August, 29, 2012, to the
commercial provision/clause list at
212.301(f) as the result of DFARS final
rule 2012–D001, Reporting of
Government-Furnished Property.
pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES
2. Burden Added by New Reporting
Comment: One respondent stated that
the rule adds new reporting
requirements that will add to the burden
of reporting. The respondent noted that
the reporting requirements for special
tooling, special test equipment,
warranty items and type designation of
items are all new with this rule.
Response: Reporting of items of
special tooling or special test equipment
for a major defense acquisition program,
which is designated for preservation
and storage in accordance with the
requirements of section 815 of the
National Defense Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 2009 (Pub. L. 110–417), is
required to register and track these
items. The special tooling, special test
equipment, and warranty requirements
have already been accounted for under
final rule 2012–D001, Reporting of
Government-Furnished Property.
Reporting of warranty serialized items is
required to identify and track warranted
items so that DoD can obtain warranty
benefits. Reporting of type designation
is required to properly account for end
items of DoD equipment and is a burden
on the Government to ensure that it is
added to line item structure. This is
critical for auditability of property
accountability.
VerDate Mar<15>2010
13:31 Dec 13, 2013
Jkt 232001
3. Benefits/Outcome
Comment: One respondent
commented that the benefits listed at
DFARS 211.274–1 in the proposed rule
would only occur with proper
implementation and suggests adding
text to clarify that merely tracking items
will not automatically achieve desired
results.
Response: DoD recognizes that item
unique identification is a prerequisite to
enabling enhancements in DoD logistics,
contracting, and financial business
transactions.
Comment: One respondent
commented that the additional funding
needed to implement the requirements
merely changes where the budget
impact hits, on invoices submitted by
contractors rather than DoD achieving
the necessary line item increases. The
respondent also stated that the
contractors’ workforce burden is greatly
increased by having additional quality
inspection requirements, having to UID
mark the additional items such as
Government-furnished material (GFM),
having to enter the items in the UID
Registry, having increased physical
inventory responsibilities, having
additional steps to carry out when
transferring contractor-acquired material
at no cost to another contract (becomes
GFM), subsequent mandatory
verifications, and new packaging
requirements, and that these additional
burdens represent neither increased
productivity nor increased efficiency.
Response: The cost burden of
implementing item unique
identification was recognized as an
allowable cost in the Director, Defense
Procurement and Acquisition Policy,
Memorandum, dated July 9, 2004,
Subject: ‘‘Contract Pricing and Cost
Accounting Compliance with DFARS
252.211–7003’’, and this case does not
change the way DoD is using item
unique identification.
Comment: One respondent stated that
this requirement is passing a nontrivial
DoD records responsibility along to the
contractor in the immediate time frame,
with no concurrent change in contract
dollars to pay for the activity (unless
through billing under a cost type
contract), and suggested deleting the
revision to 211.274–2(a)(4)(v), which
makes item unique identification
required for any, ‘‘DoD serially managed
item (reparable or nonreparable).’’
Response: The intent is not to pass the
records responsibility to the contractors,
since the change applies to contracts,
which include this clause; therefore the
mechanism for paying the contractor to
perform the activity can be included in
the contract price. Note that in the final
PO 00000
Frm 00038
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
rule this criterion is now located at
211.274–2(a)(3)(i).
4. Policy Is Unreasonable
Comment: One respondent
commented that the marking
requirements implemented by this rule
are impracticable and would put
contractors at risk of charging the
Government for unallowable
unreasonable costs, noting that a
reasonable cost is described in FAR
31.201–3(a): ‘‘A cost is reasonable if in
its nature and amount, it does not
exceed that which would be incurred by
a prudent person in the conduct of
competitive business . . .’’ The
respondent also noted that the
implementing marking requirements in
this rule would constitute abuse as
defined in the Government
Accountability Office Yellow Book:
‘‘Abuse involves behavior that is
deficient or improper when compared
with behavior that a prudent person
would consider a reasonable and
necessary business practice given the
facts and circumstances . . .’’
Response: This case is not changing
existing policy for reporting IUID; it is
clarifying the categories of items subject
to item unique identification and the
methods for reporting items to the DoD
Item Unique Identification Registry.
5. Warranty Cost
Comment: One respondent suggested
that warranted serialized items that
require IUID be identified in the
contract due to the significant
administrative cost that would be
incurred if IUID is required on all
warranted serialized items. The
suggested change would modify the text
at 211.274–2(a)(4)(iii) to read:
‘‘Warranted serialized item as identified
in the contract.’’
Response: The DFARS 211.274–
2(a)(4)(iii) reference, which the
respondent proposed revising, reflects
long-standing DoD policy that DoD
unique item identification, or DoD
recognized unique identification
equivalent, is required for any
warranted serialized item. See DFARS
final rule 2009–D018 (76 33166
published June 8, 2011).
6. Special Test Equipment
Comment: One respondent
recommended against requiring IUID for
special test equipment because special
test equipment becomes obsolete too
quickly.
Response: DFARS 211.274–2(3)(iv)
implements the policy of Public Law
110–417, which requires that major
defense acquisition programs designate
items of special tooling and special test
E:\FR\FM\16DER1.SGM
16DER1
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 241 / Monday, December 16, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
equipment for preservation and storage
upon the termination of production.
Any issues concerning obsolescence of
special test equipment at the
termination of production would be
mitigated by the program manager by
following the guidance in SD–22,
Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and
Material Shortages: A Guidebook of Best
Practices for Implementing a Robust
DMSMS Management Program, dated
August 2012.
pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES
7. New Requirements
Comment: One respondent pointed
out that the requirements at 211.274–
2(a)(4)(v) and (vi) are both new
requirements and contradict the rule’s
statement that no new requirements are
being added. The respondent
recommends modifying the text at
211.274–2(a)(4)(vi) to add ‘‘as defined in
the contract’’ to the end of the sentence.
Response: These requirements are not
considered to be new requirements as
they are clarifying and formalizing
existing practices, and they are not
anticipated to add any additional
burden to the information collection
required by the rule. In the final rule
these criteria are located within
211.274–2(a)(3).
8. Marking
Comment: One respondent suggested
that the required determination and
findings conclusions stated in 211.274–
2(b)(2) are three separate exceptions and
should be listed exclusively.
Response: There are only two
conditions for the 211.274–2(b)(2)
exceptions. They are: (1) it is more cost
effective for the Government requiring
activity to assign, mark, and register the
unique item identifier after delivery for
an item acquired from a small business
concern, and (2) it is more cost effective
for the Government requiring activity to
assign, mark, and register the unique
item identifier after delivery for a
commercial item acquired under FAR
part 8 or part 12.
Comment: One respondent
commented that the marking
requirement at 252.211–7003(c)(1)(v)
would not benefit the Government or
the contractor and will ultimately lead
to additional cost to the Government.
The respondent suggested removing this
requirement from the clause.
Response: DFARS 252.211–
7003(c)(1)(v) only addresses items for
which the contractor elects to create and
mark a unique item identifier with a
data matrix for its own purposes of
traceability, even though the item is
delivered to DoD and does not require
DoD unique identification. This
provision is included to ensure that any
VerDate Mar<15>2010
13:31 Dec 13, 2013
Jkt 232001
items marked under it and subsequently
delivered to DoD will be reported to the
DoD Item Unique Identification Registry
by the contractor to avoid having DoD
items with unique identification
markings that are not registered.
Comment: One respondent opined
that the requirement added at 252.211–
7003(c)(5)(i)(D) to verify that IUID
markings are readable and that they
conform with the applicable standards
is too broad of a requirement that adds
unnecessary redundancy to the marking
process and would serve only to
increase cost that would be passed on to
the Government.
Response: DFARS 252.211–
7003(c)(5)(i)(B) requires that unique
item identifier marking comply with the
criteria of MIL STD 130, Identification
Marking of U.S. Military Property, latest
version. Paragraph 252.211–
7003(c)(5)(i)(C) requires that shipments,
storage containers, and packages that
contain uniquely identified items be
labeled in accordance with the
requirements of MIL STD 129, latest
version. The 252.211–7003(c)(5)(i)(D)
provision to verify that unique item
identifier markings are readable and that
they conform with the applicable
standards is a prudent requirement to
assure compliance with paragraphs (B)
and (C).
Comment: One respondent
recommended deleting ‘‘or when item
unique identification is provided under
paragraph (c)(1)(v)’’ and instead adding
‘‘either as part of, or associated with’’ at
252.211–7003(d) in order to enable
reporting IUID-related data elements to
the Registry for occasional use of paper
material inspection and receiving
reports.
Response: The purpose of the
252.211–7003(d) and (e) clause language
is to require reporting of the item
unique identification data to the DoD
Item Unique Identification Registry for
end items and embedded items,
respectively, marked with a unique item
identifier. Paragraph (f) of 252.211–7003
specifies the various methods for
reporting these data.
9. Tracking Buildings or Property
Comment: One respondent suggested
editing the prescription for clause
252.211–7003 to specify that it applies
to ‘‘tangible durable personal property’’
supplies to clarify that it does not apply
to real property.
Response: The inclusion of the term
‘‘item’’, which is defined in 252.211–
7003(a) as a single hardware article or
a single unit formed by a grouping of
subassemblies, components, or
constituent parts, is a sufficient
PO 00000
Frm 00039
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
76069
distinction to avoid confusion with real
property.
10. Definitions
Comment: One respondent
commented that the definition for ‘‘data
matrix’’ is not true all of the time as in
some circumstances the modules in the
matrix can be round.
Response: As specified in 252.211–
7003(c)(3), DoD will only accept a data
matrix symbol that complies with ISO/
IEC International Standard 16022,
Information Technology—International
Symbology Specification—Data Matrix.
This standard defines a module as a
single cell in a matrix symbology used
to encode one bit of data. In data matrix,
the module is nominally a square shape.
Comment: One respondent suggested
modifying the definition for ‘‘type
designation’’ because the explanation of
a complete ‘‘item’’ is inconsistent with
other instances within the regulations,
standards, and guides.
Response: To be consistent with other
instances of ‘‘type designation’’ usage,
the words ‘‘a complete item, such as’’
are not included in the final rule.
11. Unit
Comment: One respondents suggested
modifying 252.211–7003(c)(1)(i) because
the use of the term ‘‘unit’’ is
inconsistent with other instances within
the regulations, standards, and guides.
Response: 252.211–7003(c)(1)(i) uses
the term ‘‘unit acquisition cost’’, which
is the actual cost at the time of purchase
and is the proper measure of value.
12. Internal Use Items
Comment: One respondent suggested
editing 252.211–7003(c)(3) to include an
exemption on marking items that are for
internal use only.
Response: The DoD requirement is to
have the contractor mark items that are
delivered to DoD under the terms of a
contract and to allow the collection of
data where contractors voluntarily mark
items.
13. MIL STD 130 and MIL STD 129
Comment: One respondent noted that
requiring adherence to a military
standard (e.g., MIL STD 130 and MIL
STD 129) creates an open ended
standard that would not be possible to
price at the time of award and requests
the deletion of 252.211–7003(c)(5)(i)(D)
language: ‘‘Verify that the marks on
items, shipments and storage containers
and packages are machine readable and
conform to the applicable standards.’’
The respondent also suggested
clarifying that the requirement
corresponds to the standard in place at
E:\FR\FM\16DER1.SGM
16DER1
76070
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 241 / Monday, December 16, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES
the time of award and should be cited
in the contract.
Response: This is a function of
compliance with the requirements of
MIL–STD–130 and MIL–STD–129,
which are accomplished as a matter of
course prior to the delivery of marked
items. Clause 252.211–7003 requires
compliance with the latest versions of
MIL STD 130 and MIL STD 129 as of the
time of award.
Comment: One respondent requested
adding language that states the MIL STD
129 requirement should only apply to
shipping.
Response: The requirement at
252.211–7003(c)(5)(i)(C) reinforces the
requirements in paragraph 4.4 of MIL
STD 129 that ‘‘For shipments of UII
items, the 2D (PDF417) symbol shall be
used for listing the concatenated UIIs
(DI 25S) and the data normally included
in the linear (Code 39) identification bar
codes (see 4.4.2.3 and 4.4.3.3.1).’’ MIL–
STD–129 requirements only apply to
markings on labels and containers of
items being shipped or stored, as
specified in the contract.
14. Text Clarification
Comment: One respondent suggested
editing the new text at 252.211–
7003(d)(12) to read ‘‘Type designation of
the item when specified in the contract
specifications.’’ The respondent noted
that this change would clarify that this
information is only required when it has
been provided in the contract.
Response: 252.211–7003(d)(12) is
modified in the final rule to read: ‘‘Type
designation of the item as specified in
the contract schedule, if any.’’ Use of
the term ‘‘specifications’’ is not
appropriate in this instance.
Comment: One respondent suggested
editing the new text at 252.211–
7003(d)(14) to read: ‘‘Whether the item
was sold with a limited warranty.’’ The
respondent opined that tracking if items
were sold with a warranty makes more
sense than tracking if the item is
covered by a warranty because most
warranties expire and there is no
current process for updating this
information.
Response: The DoD requirement is to
determine if the item is covered by a
warranty at the time it is delivered to
the DoD. If the contractor acquires an
item under warranty and subsequently
delivers it to DoD, then DoD wants to
gain the benefits of that warranty.
DFARS subpart 246.7 provides
procedures for capturing warranty
details, including duration.
15. Wide Area WorkFlow (WAWF)
Comment: One respondent
recommended editing 252.211–
VerDate Mar<15>2010
13:31 Dec 13, 2013
Jkt 232001
7003(f)(1) to allow contractors the
option of submitting item information
directly to the registry without the
stipulation ‘‘If WAWF is not required by
this contract’’.
Response: If the WAWF clause
252.232–7003 is in the contract, then
WAWF shall be used to deliver the item
unique identification data to the DoD
Item Unique Identification Registry. If
the WAWF clause is not in the contract,
then direct submission will have to be
used. This ensures that the data about
the item is reviewed as part of
inspection and acceptance of the item.
16. Registration/Reporting
Comment: One respondent suggested
removing the words ‘‘DoD serially
managed reparables’’ from the
requirement at 252.211–7003(c)(1)(iii).
Response: DoD serially managed
reparables may be for new acquisition or
be furnished to a contractor for repair.
In either case, they shall be subject to
item unique identification marking.
Comment: One respondent suggested
adding notes to the new requirements at
252.211–7003(c)(1)(iii) and (iv) to clarify
which category of items these refer to
out of the categories ‘‘ACQ’’ or ‘‘GFP’’.
Response: The comment applies to
the registration process. Links to
instructions for reporting item unique
identification data to the DoD Item
Unique Identification Registry are found
in 252.211–7003(f).
Comment: One respondent suggested
removing ‘‘at its own expense’’ from
252.211–7003(c)(1)(v).
Response: The phrase ‘‘at its own
expense’’ is deleted from 252.211–
7003(c)(1)(v).
Comment: One respondent suggested
adding a line at 252.211–7003(c)(vi),
which would state: ‘‘DoD serially
managed reparables as specified in
Attachment Number ll. (Note:
Corresponds to IUID Registry Category
‘‘LEG’’).’’
Response: DoD serially managed
reparables may be for new acquisitions
or be furnished to a contractor for
repair. In either case they would be
subject to item unique identification
marking.
Comment: One respondent suggested
revising 252.211–7003(c)(2), to state:
‘‘The unique item identifier assignment
and the component data element
combination shall not be duplicated on
any other item marked and/or registered
in the IUID Registry by the contractor
(because STE (GFP) may have a UII
assigned and registered, but not
marked).’’
Response: DFARS 252.211–7003(c)(2)
is revised to read: ‘‘The unique item
identifier assignment and component
PO 00000
Frm 00040
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
data element combination shall not be
duplicated on any other item marked or
registered in the DoD Item Unique
Identification Registry by the
contractor.’’
Comment: One respondent suggested
adding a nine-item list of pieces of
information to be submitted directly to
the IUID Registry for legacy items at
252.211–7003(f), similar to the list in
the proposed rule at 252.211–7003(e).
Response: Instructions for reporting
item unique identification data on
reparable items furnished to a contractor
for repair are included under 252.211–
7003(d).
Comment: One respondent suggested
adding a new 252.211–7003(f)(3), which
would state: ‘‘reparable items shall be
reported by direct data submission to
the IUID Registry following the
procedures and formats at: https://
www.acq.osd.mil/dpap/pdi/uid/data_
submission_information.html.’’
Response: The reparables furnished to
a contractor for repair would be
reported as either end items or
embedded items under (f)(1) or (f)(2), as
appropriate.
17. Government-Furnished Property
(GFP) Policy Changes
Comment: One respondent disagrees
with changing 211.274–4 to address
GFP instead of Government-furnished
equipment and noted that not all of the
exceptions to GFP would have been
considered GFP anyhow. This
respondent stated that the changes made
to this section, to include the removal
of exceptions for items valued at less
than $5,000 and Government-furnished
material, will be extremely burdensome
to large contractors and will add tens of
thousands of items that will need to be
marked and tracked with IUID and
recommended that the policy changes
not be made.
Response: The text at 211.274–4 was
modified on August 29th, 2012, by final
rule 2012–D001 and is not further
modified by this rule. The five
exceptions in the proposed rule were
incorporated into the DFARS by the
final rule 2012–D001 as well as two
other exceptions: ‘‘Property released as
work in process’’ and ‘‘Nonserial
managed items (reporting is limited to
receipt transactions only).’’
18. Business Systems Rule
Comment: One respondent disagrees
with limiting this rule to small
businesses involved in manufacturing.
This respondent stated that the business
systems rule came to pass because major
contractors’ business systems were
assessed as poor, so a control
environment argument is unwarranted.
E:\FR\FM\16DER1.SGM
16DER1
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 241 / Monday, December 16, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
The respondent also stated that the
exposure is greater at major contractors,
and major contractors are more likely to
use SAP AG software, which abrogates
the loan/payback transaction.
Response: This comment is outside
the scope of this case. The scope is
limited to clarifying the categories of
items subject to item unique
identification and the methods for
reporting items to the DoD Item Unique
Identification Registry.
pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES
III. 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.
III. Regulatory Flexibility Act
DoD does not expect this final 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.,
because the changes being made do not
increase the burden of the item unique
identification requirements, nor do they
cause the requirement to be applicable
to any additional small businesses.
However, a final regulatory flexibility
analysis has been prepared consistent
with the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5
U.S.C. 601, et seq., and is summarized
as follows:
The changes are being made to refine
the language of the regulations and
update the clause and prescription to
comply with existing item unique
identification policy. This DFARS final
rule also clarifies the reporting
requirements for special tooling and
special test equipment, warranty, and
type designation, updates text to
describe the reason for the policy, clears
up language that has been confusing in
practice, and adds an alternative
method of data submission using either
hard copy or a wide-area-workflow
attachment. The rule also eliminates
Alternate I of DFARS 252.211–7003,
which cited reporting requirements
covered by other mechanisms.
VerDate Mar<15>2010
13:31 Dec 13, 2013
Jkt 232001
This rule will apply to small
businesses involved in manufacturing.
There are currently 1,495 small
businesses registered in the Item Unique
Identification Registry, out of 2,431 total
companies registered. The changes
made by this rule will not affect the
number of businesses that are required
to be registered in the Item Unique
Identification Registry.
There were no comments in response
to the initial regulatory flexibility
analysis. The Chief Counsel for
Advocacy of the Small Business
Administration did not file any
comments.
This rule does not add any new
information collection requirements as
it only clarifies existing requirements.
The rule does not duplicate, overlap,
or conflict with any other Federal rules.
No alternatives were determined that
will accomplish the objectives of the
rule.
IV. Paperwork Reduction Act
This rule does not add any new
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) beyond those already
covered by OMB Control Numbers
0704–0246 and 0704–0248. OMB
Control Number 0704–0246, titled
‘‘Defense Federal Acquisition
Regulations Supplement (DFARS) Part
245, Government Property, related
clauses in DFARS 252, and related
forms in DFARS 253,’’ includes
information collection requirements for
DFARS subpart 211.274. OMB Control
Number 0704–0248, titled ‘‘Defense
Federal Acquisition Regulations
Supplement (DFARS) Appendix F,
Material Inspection and Receiving
Report and related forms,’’ covers all
information submitted through the Wide
Area WorkFlow system.
List of Subjects in 48 CFR Parts 211,
212, 218, 246, 252, and Appendix F to
Chapter 2
Government procurement.
Manuel Quinones,
Editor, Defense Acquisition Regulations
System.
Therefore, 48 CFR parts 211, 212, 218,
246, 252, and Appendix F to Chapter 2
are amended as follows:
■ 1. The authority citation for 48 CFR
parts 211, 212, 218, 246, 252, and
Appendix F to chapter 2 continues to
read as follows:
Authority: 41 U.S.C. 1303 and 48 CFR
chapter 1.
PO 00000
Frm 00041
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
76071
PART 211—DESCRIBING AGENCY
NEEDS
2. Section 211.274–1 is revised to read
as follows:
■
211.274–1
General.
Item unique identification and
valuation is a system of marking,
valuing, and tracking items delivered to
DoD that enhances logistics, contracting,
and financial business transactions
supporting the United States and
coalition troops. Through item unique
identification policy, which capitalizes
on leading practices and embraces open
standards, DoD—
(a) Achieves lower life-cycle cost of
item management and improves lifecycle property management;
(b) Improves operational readiness;
(c) Provides reliable accountability of
property and asset visibility throughout
the life cycle;
(d) Reduces the burden on the
workforce through increased
productivity and efficiency; and
(e) Ensures item level traceability
throughout lifecycle to strengthen
supply chain integrity, enhance cyber
security, and combat counterfeiting.
■ 3. Section 211.274–2 is amended by—
■ a. Revising the section heading;
■ b. Revising paragraph (a);
■ c. Revising paragraph (b) introductory
text; and
■ d. Revising paragraph (b)(2).
The revisions read as follows:
211.274–2 Policy for item unique
identification.
(a) It is DoD policy that DoD item
unique identification, or a DoD
recognized unique identification
equivalent, is required for all delivered
items, including items of contractoracquired property delivered on contract
line items (see PGI 245.402–71 for
guidance when delivery of contractor
acquired property is required)—
(1) For which the Government’s unit
acquisition cost is $5,000 or more;
(2) For which the Government’s unit
acquisition cost is less than $5,000
when the requiring activity determines
that item unique identification is
required for mission essential or
controlled inventory items; or
(3) Regardless of value for any—
(i) DoD serially managed item
(reparable or nonreparable) or
subassembly, component, or part
embedded within a subassembly,
component, or part;
(ii) Parent item (as defined in
252.211–7003(a)) that contains the
embedded subassembly, component, or
part;
(iii) Warranted serialized item;
E:\FR\FM\16DER1.SGM
16DER1
76072
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 241 / Monday, December 16, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
(iv) Item of special tooling or special
test equipment, as defined at FAR 2.101,
for a major defense acquisition program
that is designated for preservation and
storage in accordance with the
requirements of section 815 of the
National Defense Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 2009 (Pub. L. 110–417); and
(v) High risk item identified by the
requiring activity as vulnerable to
supply chain threat, a target of cyber
threats, or counterfeiting.
(b) Exceptions. The contractor will
not be required to provide DoD item
unique identification if—
*
*
*
*
*
(2) A determination and findings has
been executed concluding that it is more
cost effective for the Government
requiring activity to assign, mark, and
register the unique item identifier after
delivery, and the item is either acquired
from a small business concern, or is a
commercial item acquired under FAR
part 12 or part 8.
*
*
*
*
*
■ 4. Section 211.274–3 is amended by—
■ a. Revising paragraph (a); and
■ b. Amending paragraph (c) by
removing the word ‘‘need’’ and adding
in its place ‘‘shall’’.
The revision reads as follows:
211.274–3
Policy for valuation.
(a) It is DoD policy that contractors
shall be required to identify the
Government’s unit acquisition cost for
all deliverable end items to which item
unique identification applies.
*
*
*
*
*
■ 5. Section 211.274–6 is amended by—
■ a. Revising paragraph (a); and
■ b. Amending paragraph (c)(1) by
removing the clause title ‘‘Item
Identification and Valuation’’ and
adding in its place ‘‘Item Unique
Identification and Valuation’’.
The revision reads as follows:
pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES
211.274–6
Contract clauses.
(a)(1) Use the clause at 252.211–7003,
Item Unique Identification and
Valuation, in solicitations and contracts,
including solicitations and contracts
using FAR part 12 procedures for the
acquisition of commercial items, that
require item identification or valuation,
or both, in accordance with 211.274–2
and 211.274–3.
(2) Identify in paragraph (c)(1)(ii) of
the clause the contract line, subline, or
exhibit line item number and
description of any item(s) below $5,000
in unit acquisition cost for which DoD
item unique identification or a DoD
recognized unique identification
equivalent is required in accordance
with 211.274–2(a)(2).
VerDate Mar<15>2010
13:31 Dec 13, 2013
Jkt 232001
(3) Identify in paragraph (c)(1)(iii) of
the clause the applicable attachment
number, when DoD item unique
identification or a DoD recognized
unique identification equivalent is
required in accordance with 211.274–
2(a)(3)(i) through (v).
*
*
*
*
*
PART 212—ACQUISITION OF
COMMERCIAL ITEMS
212.301
[Amended]
6. Section 212.301 is amended in
paragraph (f)(ix) by removing the clause
title ‘‘Item Identification and Valuation’’
and adding in its place ‘‘Item Unique
Identification and Valuation’’.
■
PART 218—EMERGENCY
ACQUISITIONS
7. Section 218.201(2) is revised to
read as follows:
■
218.201
Contingency operation.
*
*
*
*
*
(2) Policy for item unique
identification. Contractors will not be
required to provide DoD item unique
identification if the items, as
determined by the head of the agency,
are to be used to support a contingency
operation. See 211.274–2(b).
*
*
*
*
*
PART 246—QUALITY ASSURANCE
246.710
[Amended]
8. Section 246.710 is amended in
paragraph (5)(i) introductory text by
removing the clause title ‘‘Item
Identification and Valuation’’ and
adding in its place ‘‘Item Unique
Identification and Valuation’’.
■
PART 252—SOLICITATION
PROVISIONS AND CONTRACT
CLAUSES
9. Amend section 252.211–7003 by—
a. Revising the section heading;
b. Revising the clause heading and the
clause date;
■ c. Amending paragraph (a) by
removing the definition title ‘‘DoD
unique item identification’’ and adding
in its place ‘‘DoD item unique
identification’’;
■ d. Adding to paragraph (a), in
alphabetical order, definitions for ‘‘Data
matrix’’ and ‘‘Type designation’’;
■ e. Revising paragraph (c);
■ f. Revising paragraph (d) introductory
text;
■ g. Adding paragraphs (d)(12) through
(14);
■ h. Revising paragraph (e) introductory
text;
■ i. Revising paragraph (f);
■
■
■
PO 00000
Frm 00042
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
■
■
j. Revising paragraph (g); and
k. Removing Alternate I.
252.211–7003 Item unique identification
and valuation.
*
*
*
*
*
ITEM UNIQUE IDENTIFICATION AND
VALUATION (DEC 2013)
(a) * * *
Data matrix means a two-dimensional
matrix symbology, which is made up of
square or, in some cases, round modules
arranged within a perimeter finder
pattern and uses the Error Checking and
Correction 200 (ECC200) specification
found within International Standards
Organization (ISO)/International
Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
16022.
*
*
*
*
*
Type designation means a
combination of letters and numerals
assigned by the Government to a major
end item, assembly or subassembly, as
appropriate, to provide a convenient
means of differentiating between items
having the same basic name and to
indicate modifications and changes
thereto.
*
*
*
*
*
(c) Unique item identifier. (1) The
Contractor shall provide a unique item
identifier for the following:
(i) Delivered items for which the
Government’s unit acquisition cost is
$5,000 or more, except for the following
line items:
Contract line, subline,
or exhibit line item
No.
Item description
(ii) Items for which the Government’s
unit acquisition cost is less than $5,000
that are identified in the Schedule or the
following table:
Contract line, subline,
or exhibit line item
No.
Item description
(If items are identified in the Schedule,
insert ‘‘See Schedule’’ in this table.)
(iii) Subassemblies, components, and
parts embedded within delivered items,
items with warranty requirements, DoD
serially managed reparables and DoD
serially managed nonreparables as
specified in Attachment Number ll.
(iv) Any item of special tooling or
special test equipment as defined in
FAR 2.101 that have been designated for
preservation and storage for a Major
Defense Acquisition Program as
specified in Attachment Number ll.
E:\FR\FM\16DER1.SGM
16DER1
pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 241 / Monday, December 16, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
(v) Any item not included in
paragraphs (c)(1)(i), (ii), (iii), or (iv) of
this clause for which the contractor
creates and marks a unique item
identifier for traceability.
(2) The unique item identifier
assignment and its component data
element combination shall not be
duplicated on any other item marked or
registered in the DoD Item Unique
Identification Registry by the contractor.
(3) The unique item identifier
component data elements shall be
marked on an item using two
dimensional data matrix symbology that
complies with ISO/IEC International
Standard 16022, Information
technology—International symbology
specification—Data matrix; ECC200 data
matrix specification.
(4) Data syntax and semantics of
unique item identifiers. The Contractor
shall ensure that—
(i) The data elements (except issuing
agency code) of the unique item
identifier are encoded within the data
matrix symbol that is marked on the
item using one of the following three
types of data qualifiers, as determined
by the Contractor:
(A) Application Identifiers (AIs)
(Format Indicator 05 of ISO/IEC
International Standard 15434), in
accordance with ISO/IEC International
Standard 15418, Information
Technology—EAN/UCC Application
Identifiers and Fact Data Identifiers and
Maintenance and ANSI MH 10.8.2 Data
Identifier and Application Identifier
Standard.
(B) Data Identifiers (DIs) (Format
Indicator 06 of ISO/IEC International
Standard 15434), in accordance with
ISO/IEC International Standard 15418,
Information Technology—EAN/UCC
Application Identifiers and Fact Data
Identifiers and Maintenance and ANSI
MH 10.8.2 Data Identifier and
Application Identifier Standard.
(C) Text Element Identifiers (TEIs)
(Format Indicator 12 of ISO/IEC
International Standard 15434), in
accordance with the Air Transport
Association Common Support Data
Dictionary; and
(ii) The encoded data elements of the
unique item identifier conform to the
transfer structure, syntax, and coding of
messages and data formats specified for
Format Indicators 05, 06, and 12 in ISO/
IEC International Standard 15434,
Information Technology-Transfer
Syntax for High Capacity Automatic
Data Capture Media.
(5) Unique item identifier.
(i) The Contractor shall—
(A) Determine whether to—
(1) Serialize within the enterprise
identifier;
VerDate Mar<15>2010
13:31 Dec 13, 2013
Jkt 232001
(2) Serialize within the part, lot, or
batch number; or
(3) Use a DoD recognized unique
identification equivalent (e.g. Vehicle
Identification Number); and
(B) Place the data elements of the
unique item identifier (enterprise
identifier; serial number; DoD
recognized unique identification
equivalent; and for serialization within
the part, lot, or batch number only:
Original part, lot, or batch number) on
items requiring marking by paragraph
(c)(1) of this clause, based on the criteria
provided in MIL–STD–130,
Identification Marking of U.S. Military
Property, latest version;
(C) Label shipments, storage
containers and packages that contain
uniquely identified items in accordance
with the requirements of MIL–STD–129,
Military Marking for Shipment and
Storage, latest version; and
(D) Verify that the marks on items and
labels on shipments, storage containers,
and packages are machine readable and
conform to the applicable standards.
The contractor shall use an automatic
identification technology device for this
verification that has been programmed
to the requirements of Appendix A,
MIL–STD–130, latest version.
(ii) The issuing agency code—
(A) Shall not be placed on the item;
and
(B) Shall be derived from the data
qualifier for the enterprise identifier.
(d) For each item that requires item
unique identification under paragraph
(c)(1)(i), (ii), or (iv) of this clause or
when item unique identification is
provided under paragraph (c)(1)(v), in
addition to the information provided as
part of the Material Inspection and
Receiving Report specified elsewhere in
this contract, the Contractor shall report
at the time of delivery, as part of the
Material Inspection and Receiving
Report, the following information:
(1) * * *
(12) Type designation of the item as
specified in the contract schedule, if
any.
(13) Whether the item is an item of
Special Tooling or Special Test
Equipment.
(14) Whether the item is covered by
a warranty.
(e) For embedded subassemblies,
components, and parts that require DoD
item unique identification under
paragraph (c)(1)(iii) of this clause or
when item unique identification is
provided under paragraph (c)(1)(v), the
Contractor shall report as part of the
Material Inspection and Receiving
Report specified elsewhere in this
contract, the following information:
*
*
*
*
*
PO 00000
Frm 00043
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
76073
(f) The Contractor shall submit the
information required by paragraphs (d)
and (e) of this clause as follows:
(1) End items shall be reported using
the receiving report capability in Wide
Area WorkFlow (WAWF) in accordance
with the clause at 252.232–7003. If
WAWF is not required by this contract,
and the contractor is not using WAWF,
follow the procedures at https://
dodprocurementtoolbox.com/site/
uidregistry/.
(2) Embedded items shall be reported
by one of the following methods—
(i) Use of the embedded items
capability in WAWF;
(ii) Direct data submission to the IUID
Registry following the procedures and
formats at https://
dodprocurementtoolbox.com/site/
uidregistry/; or
(iii) Via WAWF as a deliverable
attachment for exhibit line item number
(fill in) ll, Unique Item Identifier
Report for Embedded Items, Contract
Data Requirements List, DD Form 1423.
(g) Subcontracts. If the Contractor
acquires by contract any items for which
item unique identification is required in
accordance with paragraph (c)(1) of this
clause, the Contractor shall include this
clause, including this paragraph (g), in
the applicable subcontract(s), including
subcontracts for commercial items.
■ 11. Amend Appendix F to Chapter 2
by—
■ a. Revising section F–103(e)(1);
■ b. Revising paragraph section F–
301(b)(18) introductory text; and
■ c. Revising paragraph F–301(b)(18)(i).
The revisions read as follows:
APPENDIX F TO CHAPTER 2—
MATERIAL INSPECTION AND
RECEIVING REPORT
*
*
F–103
*
*
*
*
*
*
Use.
*
*
(e) * * *
(1) Item Unique Identification (IUID), when
the clause at DFARS 252.211–7003, Item
Unique Identification and Valuation is used
in the contract, reporting of IUID data is
required. WAWF captures the IUID data and
forwards the data to the IUID registry after
acceptance. WAWF shall be used to report
Unique Item Identifiers (UIIs) at the line item
level, unless an exception to WAWF applies,
and can also be used to report UIIs embedded
at the line item level.
*
*
F–301
*
*
*
*
Preparation instructions.
*
*
*
*
(b) * * *
(18) Unit price. The contractor shall enter
unit prices on all WAWF RR copies.
(i) The contractor shall enter unit prices for
each item of property fabricated or acquired
for the Government and delivered to a
E:\FR\FM\16DER1.SGM
16DER1
76074
Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 241 / Monday, December 16, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
contractor as Government furnished property
(GFP). Get the unit price from Section B of
the contract. If the unit price is not available,
use an estimate. The estimated price should
be the contractor’s estimate of what the items
cost the Government. When the price is
estimated, enter ‘‘Estimated Unit Price’’ in
the description field. However, if the contract
has Item Unique Identification (IUID)
requirements and the receiving report is
being processed in WAWF, the unit price
must represent the acquisition cost that will
be recorded in the IUID registry. Therefore,
the unit price is required (see the clause at
DFARS 252.211–7003, Item Unique
Identification and Valuation). When
delivering GFP via WAWF to another
contractor, WAWF will initiate a property
transfer if the vendor who is initiating the
WAWF RR is also registered as a vendor
property shipper in WAWF and the vendor
receiving the property is also a vendor
property receiver in WAWF.
*
*
*
*
*
[FR Doc. 2013–29771 Filed 12–13–13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 5001–06–P
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
48 CFR Parts 645 and 652
[Public Notice 8546]
RIN 1400–AC33
Department of State Acquisition
Regulation
AGENCY: Department
ACTION: Final rule.
of State.
This rule adopts as final
certain changes proposed to the
Department of State Acquisition
Regulation (DOSAR) to conform to
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)
changes. It adds a new DOSAR clause
and provision regarding reporting
certain categories of Governmentfurnished and contractor-acquired
property.
DATES: This rule is effective on January
15, 2014.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: You
may obtain copies of the proposed
information collection and supporting
documents from Ella Ramirez, Senior
Procurement Analyst, Policy Division,
Department of State, Office of the
Procurement Executive, 2201 C Street
NW., Suite 1060, State Annex Number
15, Washington, DC 20522–0602; email
address: RamirezIM2@state.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This rule
was published as a Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking (NPRM) on July 29, 2013
(78 FR 45490), with a provision of 60
days for public comment. A summary of
the proposed changes and the reasons
therefor were included in the NPRM.
The Department of State (Department)
received two comments in response to
the NPRM.
pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES
SUMMARY:
VerDate Mar<15>2010
17:19 Dec 13, 2013
Jkt 232001
The first commenter recommended
that requirements for accountability for
Government-provided software be
deleted because FAR Part 27 covers
software and FAR Part 45 does not.
While it is true that software is
expressly excluded from the FAR 45.101
definition of ‘‘Government property,’’
tracking of software provided by the
Department to its contractors is required
information for the Department’s
financial statement. Prescribing separate
reporting of this information in a
DOSAR supplement to FAR 27 would
be burdensome and inefficient.
Accordingly, that recommendation is
not accepted.
The first commenter also
recommended that ‘‘Accounting’’ be
changed to ‘‘Accountability’’ in the
proposed DOSAR §§ 652.245–70(a)(3)
and 652.245–71, on the theory that Part
45 governs the management and
accountability of Government-owned
property, not ‘‘accounting,’’ which is a
financial function. The Department
accepts this recommendation insofar as
the language in the provision, and has
changed the title of the clause to
‘‘Special Reports of Government
Property.’’
The first commenter pointed out
duplicate provisions in proposed
§ 652.245–71(d)(2)(iv) and (d)(2)(xiv).
The Department agrees that these
provisions are duplicative, and will
delete subsection (d)(2)(xiv), renumber
subsequent provisions, and move the
parenthetical comment (‘‘If from another
DOS contract, or government agency,
please specify’’) to subsection (d)(2)(iv).
The first commenter recommended
that the words ‘‘or their delegated
representatives’’ be added to the end of
the chapeau to § 652.245–71(f). The
Department does not agree that
delegating this responsibility would be
appropriate, and does not accept this
recommendation.
The second commenter advances
several broad arguments involving the
Department’s authority to enact rules
and to make findings with respect to
various administrative laws and
executive orders that apply to
rulemaking. The Department disagrees
with the comments.
The authority of agencies to regulate
is well-established. The absolute ‘‘nondelegation’’ concept has been virtually
abandoned since 1948. See Mistretta v.
United States, 488 U.S. 361 (1989), and
the cases cited therein. ‘‘The power of
an administrative agency to administer
a congressionally created . . . program
necessarily requires the formulation of
policy and the making of rules to fill
any gap left, implicitly or explicitly, by
Congress.’’ Morton v. Ruiz, 415 U.S.
199, 231 (1974).
PO 00000
Frm 00044
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
‘‘If Congress has explicitly left a gap
for the agency to fill, there is an express
delegation of authority to the agency to
elucidate a specific provision of the
statute by regulation. Such legislative
regulations are given controlling weight
unless they are arbitrary, capricious, or
manifestly contrary to the statute.
Sometimes the legislative delegation to
an agency on a particular question is
implicit rather than explicit. In such a
case, a court may not substitute its own
construction of a statutory provision for
a reasonable interpretation made by the
administrator of an agency.’’ Chevron,
U.S.A., Inc. v. NRDC, Inc., 467 U.S. 837,
843–844 (1984) (footnote omitted).
In the case of the FAR and DOSAR,
Congress explicitly delegated
rulemaking authority to certain
agencies, resulting in the FAR. 41 U.S.C.
1303. FAR 1.301 provides authority to
agencies to supplement the FAR: ‘‘[A]n
agency head may issue or authorize the
issuance of agency acquisition
regulations that implement or
supplement the FAR and incorporate,
together with the FAR, agency policies,
procedures, contract clauses,
solicitation provisions, and forms that
govern the contracting process or
otherwise control the relationship
between the agency, including any of its
suborganizations, and contractors or
prospective contractors.’’ 48 CFR
§ 1.301. The Secretary of State has the
general authority to issue regulations to
carry out the functions of the
Department; specifically, in this case,
regulations to implement procurement
statutes and the FAR. 22 U.S.C. 2651a.
The Department of State’s implementing
regulations are the DOSAR, codified at
48 CFR parts 600–699.
The commenter further challenged the
ability of a Department official to make
findings with respect to compliance
with applicable statutes and executive
orders (contained in the ‘‘Regulatory
Findings’’ section of the NPRM and in
this Final Rule, below). Except for the
Administrative Procedure Act (APA),
the statutes or executive orders cited in
this section require agencies to consider
certain factors prior to publishing a rule.
(With respect to the APA, the
Department’s assertion was (and is) a
simple statement of fact regarding how
it has complied with that law.)
If a member of the public has
information contrary to the assertion of
the Department official (for example,
proof that annual impact on the U.S.
economy from the rulemaking would in
fact exceed $100,000,000; or proof that
the rule would have a significant impact
E:\FR\FM\16DER1.SGM
16DER1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 241 (Monday, December 16, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 76067-76074]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-29771]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Defense Acquisition Regulations System
48 CFR Parts 211, 212, 218, 246, 252, and Appendix F to Chapter 2
RIN 0750-AH64
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement: Item Unique
Identifier Update (DFARS Case 2011-D055)
AGENCY: Defense Acquisition Regulations System, Department of Defense
(DoD).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: DoD is issuing a final rule amending the Defense Federal
Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to update and clarify
requirements for unique identification and valuation of items delivered
under DoD contracts.
DATES: Effective December 16, 2013.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Dustin Pitsch, telephone 571-372-
6090.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. Background
DoD published a proposed rule in the Federal Register at 77 FR
35921 on June 15, 2012. The comment period closed on August 14, 2012.
This rule proposed to revise the prescription and the clause at DFARS
252.211-7003 to update and clarify instructions for the identification
and valuation processes. Five respondents submitted public comments in
response to the proposed rule.
II. Discussion and Analysis
DoD reviewed the public comments in the development of the final
rule. A discussion of the comments and the changes made to the rule as
a result of those comments is provided, as follows.
A. Summary of Significant Changes
The final rule incorporates the following significant changes from
the proposed rule:
Paragraphs 211.274-2(a)(2) and (3) are revised to
consolidate requirements.
The definition of ``data matrix'' within the clause at
252.211-7003 is modified from the proposed rule to clarify the
specification with which contractors must comply.
The words ``at its own expense'' at 252.211-7003(c)(1)(v)
are removed as a result of a public comment.
The statement ``or registered in the DoD Item Unique
Identification Registry'' is added at 252.211-7003(c)(2).
The phrase ``ECC200 data matrix specification'' is added
at 252.211-7003(c)(3) to note the exact specification within the listed
standard.
252.211-7003(c)(5)(D) is revised to read ``Verify that the
marks on items and labels on shipments, storage containers, and
packages are machine readable and conform to the applicable standards.
The contractor shall use an automatic identification technology device
for this verification that has been programmed to the requirements of
Appendix A, MIL-STD-130, latest version.''
252.211-7003(f)(1) is revised to include the sentence ``If
WAWF is not required by this contract, and the contractor is not using
WAWF, follow the procedure at https://dodprocurementtoolbox.com/site/uidregistry/.''
252.211-7003(f)(2)(ii) is revised to clarify that a fill-
in is necessary when this circumstance applies.
Changes previously proposed to update the Web site at
252.225-7039(b)(1)(ii)(B) are no longer required as DFARS final rule
2013-D037 published November 18, 2013 deleted this clause as coverage
is now located in the FAR.
In Appendix F-103(e)(1), the last sentence is revised to
read ``WAWF
[[Page 76068]]
shall be used to report Unique Item Identifiers (UIIs) at the line item
level, unless an exception to WAWF applies, and can also be used to
report UIIs embedded at the line item level.''
In Appendix F paragraph F-301(b)(18)(i), the fifth
sentence in this paragraph is revised to read: ``However, if the
contract has Item Unique Identification (IUID) requirements and the
receiving report is being processed in WAWF the unit price must
represent the acquisition cost that will be recorded in the IUID
registry.'' This change is being made to ensure the instructions in
Appendix F conform to the coverage in the clause.
B. Analysis of Public Comments
1. Commercial Provision/Clause List
Comment: One respondent noted that DFARS clause 252.211-7003 is in
the commercial provision/clause list at DFARS 212.301(f)(iv), and
recommended that clause 252.211-7007 be added.
Response: Clause 252.211-7007 was added on August, 29, 2012, to the
commercial provision/clause list at 212.301(f) as the result of DFARS
final rule 2012-D001, Reporting of Government-Furnished Property.
2. Burden Added by New Reporting
Comment: One respondent stated that the rule adds new reporting
requirements that will add to the burden of reporting. The respondent
noted that the reporting requirements for special tooling, special test
equipment, warranty items and type designation of items are all new
with this rule.
Response: Reporting of items of special tooling or special test
equipment for a major defense acquisition program, which is designated
for preservation and storage in accordance with the requirements of
section 815 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year
2009 (Pub. L. 110-417), is required to register and track these items.
The special tooling, special test equipment, and warranty requirements
have already been accounted for under final rule 2012-D001, Reporting
of Government-Furnished Property. Reporting of warranty serialized
items is required to identify and track warranted items so that DoD can
obtain warranty benefits. Reporting of type designation is required to
properly account for end items of DoD equipment and is a burden on the
Government to ensure that it is added to line item structure. This is
critical for auditability of property accountability.
3. Benefits/Outcome
Comment: One respondent commented that the benefits listed at DFARS
211.274-1 in the proposed rule would only occur with proper
implementation and suggests adding text to clarify that merely tracking
items will not automatically achieve desired results.
Response: DoD recognizes that item unique identification is a
prerequisite to enabling enhancements in DoD logistics, contracting,
and financial business transactions.
Comment: One respondent commented that the additional funding
needed to implement the requirements merely changes where the budget
impact hits, on invoices submitted by contractors rather than DoD
achieving the necessary line item increases. The respondent also stated
that the contractors' workforce burden is greatly increased by having
additional quality inspection requirements, having to UID mark the
additional items such as Government-furnished material (GFM), having to
enter the items in the UID Registry, having increased physical
inventory responsibilities, having additional steps to carry out when
transferring contractor-acquired material at no cost to another
contract (becomes GFM), subsequent mandatory verifications, and new
packaging requirements, and that these additional burdens represent
neither increased productivity nor increased efficiency.
Response: The cost burden of implementing item unique
identification was recognized as an allowable cost in the Director,
Defense Procurement and Acquisition Policy, Memorandum, dated July 9,
2004, Subject: ``Contract Pricing and Cost Accounting Compliance with
DFARS 252.211-7003'', and this case does not change the way DoD is
using item unique identification.
Comment: One respondent stated that this requirement is passing a
nontrivial DoD records responsibility along to the contractor in the
immediate time frame, with no concurrent change in contract dollars to
pay for the activity (unless through billing under a cost type
contract), and suggested deleting the revision to 211.274-2(a)(4)(v),
which makes item unique identification required for any, ``DoD serially
managed item (reparable or nonreparable).''
Response: The intent is not to pass the records responsibility to
the contractors, since the change applies to contracts, which include
this clause; therefore the mechanism for paying the contractor to
perform the activity can be included in the contract price. Note that
in the final rule this criterion is now located at 211.274-2(a)(3)(i).
4. Policy Is Unreasonable
Comment: One respondent commented that the marking requirements
implemented by this rule are impracticable and would put contractors at
risk of charging the Government for unallowable unreasonable costs,
noting that a reasonable cost is described in FAR 31.201-3(a): ``A cost
is reasonable if in its nature and amount, it does not exceed that
which would be incurred by a prudent person in the conduct of
competitive business . . .'' The respondent also noted that the
implementing marking requirements in this rule would constitute abuse
as defined in the Government Accountability Office Yellow Book: ``Abuse
involves behavior that is deficient or improper when compared with
behavior that a prudent person would consider a reasonable and
necessary business practice given the facts and circumstances . . .''
Response: This case is not changing existing policy for reporting
IUID; it is clarifying the categories of items subject to item unique
identification and the methods for reporting items to the DoD Item
Unique Identification Registry.
5. Warranty Cost
Comment: One respondent suggested that warranted serialized items
that require IUID be identified in the contract due to the significant
administrative cost that would be incurred if IUID is required on all
warranted serialized items. The suggested change would modify the text
at 211.274-2(a)(4)(iii) to read: ``Warranted serialized item as
identified in the contract.''
Response: The DFARS 211.274-2(a)(4)(iii) reference, which the
respondent proposed revising, reflects long-standing DoD policy that
DoD unique item identification, or DoD recognized unique identification
equivalent, is required for any warranted serialized item. See DFARS
final rule 2009-D018 (76 33166 published June 8, 2011).
6. Special Test Equipment
Comment: One respondent recommended against requiring IUID for
special test equipment because special test equipment becomes obsolete
too quickly.
Response: DFARS 211.274-2(3)(iv) implements the policy of Public
Law 110-417, which requires that major defense acquisition programs
designate items of special tooling and special test
[[Page 76069]]
equipment for preservation and storage upon the termination of
production. Any issues concerning obsolescence of special test
equipment at the termination of production would be mitigated by the
program manager by following the guidance in SD-22, Diminishing
Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages: A Guidebook of Best
Practices for Implementing a Robust DMSMS Management Program, dated
August 2012.
7. New Requirements
Comment: One respondent pointed out that the requirements at
211.274-2(a)(4)(v) and (vi) are both new requirements and contradict
the rule's statement that no new requirements are being added. The
respondent recommends modifying the text at 211.274-2(a)(4)(vi) to add
``as defined in the contract'' to the end of the sentence.
Response: These requirements are not considered to be new
requirements as they are clarifying and formalizing existing practices,
and they are not anticipated to add any additional burden to the
information collection required by the rule. In the final rule these
criteria are located within 211.274-2(a)(3).
8. Marking
Comment: One respondent suggested that the required determination
and findings conclusions stated in 211.274-2(b)(2) are three separate
exceptions and should be listed exclusively.
Response: There are only two conditions for the 211.274-2(b)(2)
exceptions. They are: (1) it is more cost effective for the Government
requiring activity to assign, mark, and register the unique item
identifier after delivery for an item acquired from a small business
concern, and (2) it is more cost effective for the Government requiring
activity to assign, mark, and register the unique item identifier after
delivery for a commercial item acquired under FAR part 8 or part 12.
Comment: One respondent commented that the marking requirement at
252.211-7003(c)(1)(v) would not benefit the Government or the
contractor and will ultimately lead to additional cost to the
Government. The respondent suggested removing this requirement from the
clause.
Response: DFARS 252.211-7003(c)(1)(v) only addresses items for
which the contractor elects to create and mark a unique item identifier
with a data matrix for its own purposes of traceability, even though
the item is delivered to DoD and does not require DoD unique
identification. This provision is included to ensure that any items
marked under it and subsequently delivered to DoD will be reported to
the DoD Item Unique Identification Registry by the contractor to avoid
having DoD items with unique identification markings that are not
registered.
Comment: One respondent opined that the requirement added at
252.211-7003(c)(5)(i)(D) to verify that IUID markings are readable and
that they conform with the applicable standards is too broad of a
requirement that adds unnecessary redundancy to the marking process and
would serve only to increase cost that would be passed on to the
Government.
Response: DFARS 252.211-7003(c)(5)(i)(B) requires that unique item
identifier marking comply with the criteria of MIL STD 130,
Identification Marking of U.S. Military Property, latest version.
Paragraph 252.211-7003(c)(5)(i)(C) requires that shipments, storage
containers, and packages that contain uniquely identified items be
labeled in accordance with the requirements of MIL STD 129, latest
version. The 252.211-7003(c)(5)(i)(D) provision to verify that unique
item identifier markings are readable and that they conform with the
applicable standards is a prudent requirement to assure compliance with
paragraphs (B) and (C).
Comment: One respondent recommended deleting ``or when item unique
identification is provided under paragraph (c)(1)(v)'' and instead
adding ``either as part of, or associated with'' at 252.211-7003(d) in
order to enable reporting IUID-related data elements to the Registry
for occasional use of paper material inspection and receiving reports.
Response: The purpose of the 252.211-7003(d) and (e) clause
language is to require reporting of the item unique identification data
to the DoD Item Unique Identification Registry for end items and
embedded items, respectively, marked with a unique item identifier.
Paragraph (f) of 252.211-7003 specifies the various methods for
reporting these data.
9. Tracking Buildings or Property
Comment: One respondent suggested editing the prescription for
clause 252.211-7003 to specify that it applies to ``tangible durable
personal property'' supplies to clarify that it does not apply to real
property.
Response: The inclusion of the term ``item'', which is defined in
252.211-7003(a) as a single hardware article or a single unit formed by
a grouping of subassemblies, components, or constituent parts, is a
sufficient distinction to avoid confusion with real property.
10. Definitions
Comment: One respondent commented that the definition for ``data
matrix'' is not true all of the time as in some circumstances the
modules in the matrix can be round.
Response: As specified in 252.211-7003(c)(3), DoD will only accept
a data matrix symbol that complies with ISO/IEC International Standard
16022, Information Technology--International Symbology Specification--
Data Matrix. This standard defines a module as a single cell in a
matrix symbology used to encode one bit of data. In data matrix, the
module is nominally a square shape.
Comment: One respondent suggested modifying the definition for
``type designation'' because the explanation of a complete ``item'' is
inconsistent with other instances within the regulations, standards,
and guides.
Response: To be consistent with other instances of ``type
designation'' usage, the words ``a complete item, such as'' are not
included in the final rule.
11. Unit
Comment: One respondents suggested modifying 252.211-7003(c)(1)(i)
because the use of the term ``unit'' is inconsistent with other
instances within the regulations, standards, and guides.
Response: 252.211-7003(c)(1)(i) uses the term ``unit acquisition
cost'', which is the actual cost at the time of purchase and is the
proper measure of value.
12. Internal Use Items
Comment: One respondent suggested editing 252.211-7003(c)(3) to
include an exemption on marking items that are for internal use only.
Response: The DoD requirement is to have the contractor mark items
that are delivered to DoD under the terms of a contract and to allow
the collection of data where contractors voluntarily mark items.
13. MIL STD 130 and MIL STD 129
Comment: One respondent noted that requiring adherence to a
military standard (e.g., MIL STD 130 and MIL STD 129) creates an open
ended standard that would not be possible to price at the time of award
and requests the deletion of 252.211-7003(c)(5)(i)(D) language:
``Verify that the marks on items, shipments and storage containers and
packages are machine readable and conform to the applicable
standards.'' The respondent also suggested clarifying that the
requirement corresponds to the standard in place at
[[Page 76070]]
the time of award and should be cited in the contract.
Response: This is a function of compliance with the requirements of
MIL-STD-130 and MIL-STD-129, which are accomplished as a matter of
course prior to the delivery of marked items. Clause 252.211-7003
requires compliance with the latest versions of MIL STD 130 and MIL STD
129 as of the time of award.
Comment: One respondent requested adding language that states the
MIL STD 129 requirement should only apply to shipping.
Response: The requirement at 252.211-7003(c)(5)(i)(C) reinforces
the requirements in paragraph 4.4 of MIL STD 129 that ``For shipments
of UII items, the 2D (PDF417) symbol shall be used for listing the
concatenated UIIs (DI 25S) and the data normally included in the linear
(Code 39) identification bar codes (see 4.4.2.3 and 4.4.3.3.1).'' MIL-
STD-129 requirements only apply to markings on labels and containers of
items being shipped or stored, as specified in the contract.
14. Text Clarification
Comment: One respondent suggested editing the new text at 252.211-
7003(d)(12) to read ``Type designation of the item when specified in
the contract specifications.'' The respondent noted that this change
would clarify that this information is only required when it has been
provided in the contract.
Response: 252.211-7003(d)(12) is modified in the final rule to
read: ``Type designation of the item as specified in the contract
schedule, if any.'' Use of the term ``specifications'' is not
appropriate in this instance.
Comment: One respondent suggested editing the new text at 252.211-
7003(d)(14) to read: ``Whether the item was sold with a limited
warranty.'' The respondent opined that tracking if items were sold with
a warranty makes more sense than tracking if the item is covered by a
warranty because most warranties expire and there is no current process
for updating this information.
Response: The DoD requirement is to determine if the item is
covered by a warranty at the time it is delivered to the DoD. If the
contractor acquires an item under warranty and subsequently delivers it
to DoD, then DoD wants to gain the benefits of that warranty. DFARS
subpart 246.7 provides procedures for capturing warranty details,
including duration.
15. Wide Area WorkFlow (WAWF)
Comment: One respondent recommended editing 252.211-7003(f)(1) to
allow contractors the option of submitting item information directly to
the registry without the stipulation ``If WAWF is not required by this
contract''.
Response: If the WAWF clause 252.232-7003 is in the contract, then
WAWF shall be used to deliver the item unique identification data to
the DoD Item Unique Identification Registry. If the WAWF clause is not
in the contract, then direct submission will have to be used. This
ensures that the data about the item is reviewed as part of inspection
and acceptance of the item.
16. Registration/Reporting
Comment: One respondent suggested removing the words ``DoD serially
managed reparables'' from the requirement at 252.211-7003(c)(1)(iii).
Response: DoD serially managed reparables may be for new
acquisition or be furnished to a contractor for repair. In either case,
they shall be subject to item unique identification marking.
Comment: One respondent suggested adding notes to the new
requirements at 252.211-7003(c)(1)(iii) and (iv) to clarify which
category of items these refer to out of the categories ``ACQ'' or
``GFP''.
Response: The comment applies to the registration process. Links to
instructions for reporting item unique identification data to the DoD
Item Unique Identification Registry are found in 252.211-7003(f).
Comment: One respondent suggested removing ``at its own expense''
from 252.211-7003(c)(1)(v).
Response: The phrase ``at its own expense'' is deleted from
252.211-7003(c)(1)(v).
Comment: One respondent suggested adding a line at 252.211-
7003(c)(vi), which would state: ``DoD serially managed reparables as
specified in Attachment Number ----. (Note: Corresponds to IUID
Registry Category ``LEG'').''
Response: DoD serially managed reparables may be for new
acquisitions or be furnished to a contractor for repair. In either case
they would be subject to item unique identification marking.
Comment: One respondent suggested revising 252.211-7003(c)(2), to
state: ``The unique item identifier assignment and the component data
element combination shall not be duplicated on any other item marked
and/or registered in the IUID Registry by the contractor (because STE
(GFP) may have a UII assigned and registered, but not marked).''
Response: DFARS 252.211-7003(c)(2) is revised to read: ``The unique
item identifier assignment and component data element combination shall
not be duplicated on any other item marked or registered in the DoD
Item Unique Identification Registry by the contractor.''
Comment: One respondent suggested adding a nine-item list of pieces
of information to be submitted directly to the IUID Registry for legacy
items at 252.211-7003(f), similar to the list in the proposed rule at
252.211-7003(e).
Response: Instructions for reporting item unique identification
data on reparable items furnished to a contractor for repair are
included under 252.211-7003(d).
Comment: One respondent suggested adding a new 252.211-7003(f)(3),
which would state: ``reparable items shall be reported by direct data
submission to the IUID Registry following the procedures and formats
at: https://www.acq.osd.mil/dpap/pdi/uid/data_submission_information.html.''
Response: The reparables furnished to a contractor for repair would
be reported as either end items or embedded items under (f)(1) or
(f)(2), as appropriate.
17. Government-Furnished Property (GFP) Policy Changes
Comment: One respondent disagrees with changing 211.274-4 to
address GFP instead of Government-furnished equipment and noted that
not all of the exceptions to GFP would have been considered GFP anyhow.
This respondent stated that the changes made to this section, to
include the removal of exceptions for items valued at less than $5,000
and Government-furnished material, will be extremely burdensome to
large contractors and will add tens of thousands of items that will
need to be marked and tracked with IUID and recommended that the policy
changes not be made.
Response: The text at 211.274-4 was modified on August 29th, 2012,
by final rule 2012-D001 and is not further modified by this rule. The
five exceptions in the proposed rule were incorporated into the DFARS
by the final rule 2012-D001 as well as two other exceptions: ``Property
released as work in process'' and ``Nonserial managed items (reporting
is limited to receipt transactions only).''
18. Business Systems Rule
Comment: One respondent disagrees with limiting this rule to small
businesses involved in manufacturing. This respondent stated that the
business systems rule came to pass because major contractors' business
systems were assessed as poor, so a control environment argument is
unwarranted.
[[Page 76071]]
The respondent also stated that the exposure is greater at major
contractors, and major contractors are more likely to use SAP AG
software, which abrogates the loan/payback transaction.
Response: This comment is outside the scope of this case. The scope
is limited to clarifying the categories of items subject to item unique
identification and the methods for reporting items to the DoD Item
Unique Identification Registry.
III. 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.
III. Regulatory Flexibility Act
DoD does not expect this final 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., because the
changes being made do not increase the burden of the item unique
identification requirements, nor do they cause the requirement to be
applicable to any additional small businesses. However, a final
regulatory flexibility analysis has been prepared consistent with the
Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 601, et seq., and is summarized as
follows:
The changes are being made to refine the language of the
regulations and update the clause and prescription to comply with
existing item unique identification policy. This DFARS final rule also
clarifies the reporting requirements for special tooling and special
test equipment, warranty, and type designation, updates text to
describe the reason for the policy, clears up language that has been
confusing in practice, and adds an alternative method of data
submission using either hard copy or a wide-area-workflow attachment.
The rule also eliminates Alternate I of DFARS 252.211-7003, which cited
reporting requirements covered by other mechanisms.
This rule will apply to small businesses involved in manufacturing.
There are currently 1,495 small businesses registered in the Item
Unique Identification Registry, out of 2,431 total companies
registered. The changes made by this rule will not affect the number of
businesses that are required to be registered in the Item Unique
Identification Registry.
There were no comments in response to the initial regulatory
flexibility analysis. The Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small
Business Administration did not file any comments.
This rule does not add any new information collection requirements
as it only clarifies existing requirements.
The rule does not duplicate, overlap, or conflict with any other
Federal rules.
No alternatives were determined that will accomplish the objectives
of the rule.
IV. Paperwork Reduction Act
This rule does not add any new 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) beyond those already
covered by OMB Control Numbers 0704-0246 and 0704-0248. OMB Control
Number 0704-0246, titled ``Defense Federal Acquisition Regulations
Supplement (DFARS) Part 245, Government Property, related clauses in
DFARS 252, and related forms in DFARS 253,'' includes information
collection requirements for DFARS subpart 211.274. OMB Control Number
0704-0248, titled ``Defense Federal Acquisition Regulations Supplement
(DFARS) Appendix F, Material Inspection and Receiving Report and
related forms,'' covers all information submitted through the Wide Area
WorkFlow system.
List of Subjects in 48 CFR Parts 211, 212, 218, 246, 252, and
Appendix F to Chapter 2
Government procurement.
Manuel Quinones,
Editor, Defense Acquisition Regulations System.
Therefore, 48 CFR parts 211, 212, 218, 246, 252, and Appendix F to
Chapter 2 are amended as follows:
0
1. The authority citation for 48 CFR parts 211, 212, 218, 246, 252, and
Appendix F to chapter 2 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 41 U.S.C. 1303 and 48 CFR chapter 1.
PART 211--DESCRIBING AGENCY NEEDS
0
2. Section 211.274-1 is revised to read as follows:
211.274-1 General.
Item unique identification and valuation is a system of marking,
valuing, and tracking items delivered to DoD that enhances logistics,
contracting, and financial business transactions supporting the United
States and coalition troops. Through item unique identification policy,
which capitalizes on leading practices and embraces open standards,
DoD--
(a) Achieves lower life-cycle cost of item management and improves
life-cycle property management;
(b) Improves operational readiness;
(c) Provides reliable accountability of property and asset
visibility throughout the life cycle;
(d) Reduces the burden on the workforce through increased
productivity and efficiency; and
(e) Ensures item level traceability throughout lifecycle to
strengthen supply chain integrity, enhance cyber security, and combat
counterfeiting.
0
3. Section 211.274-2 is amended by--
0
a. Revising the section heading;
0
b. Revising paragraph (a);
0
c. Revising paragraph (b) introductory text; and
0
d. Revising paragraph (b)(2).
The revisions read as follows:
211.274-2 Policy for item unique identification.
(a) It is DoD policy that DoD item unique identification, or a DoD
recognized unique identification equivalent, is required for all
delivered items, including items of contractor-acquired property
delivered on contract line items (see PGI 245.402-71 for guidance when
delivery of contractor acquired property is required)--
(1) For which the Government's unit acquisition cost is $5,000 or
more;
(2) For which the Government's unit acquisition cost is less than
$5,000 when the requiring activity determines that item unique
identification is required for mission essential or controlled
inventory items; or
(3) Regardless of value for any--
(i) DoD serially managed item (reparable or nonreparable) or
subassembly, component, or part embedded within a subassembly,
component, or part;
(ii) Parent item (as defined in 252.211-7003(a)) that contains the
embedded subassembly, component, or part;
(iii) Warranted serialized item;
[[Page 76072]]
(iv) Item of special tooling or special test equipment, as defined
at FAR 2.101, for a major defense acquisition program that is
designated for preservation and storage in accordance with the
requirements of section 815 of the National Defense Authorization Act
for Fiscal Year 2009 (Pub. L. 110-417); and
(v) High risk item identified by the requiring activity as
vulnerable to supply chain threat, a target of cyber threats, or
counterfeiting.
(b) Exceptions. The contractor will not be required to provide DoD
item unique identification if--
* * * * *
(2) A determination and findings has been executed concluding that
it is more cost effective for the Government requiring activity to
assign, mark, and register the unique item identifier after delivery,
and the item is either acquired from a small business concern, or is a
commercial item acquired under FAR part 12 or part 8.
* * * * *
0
4. Section 211.274-3 is amended by--
0
a. Revising paragraph (a); and
0
b. Amending paragraph (c) by removing the word ``need'' and adding in
its place ``shall''.
The revision reads as follows:
211.274-3 Policy for valuation.
(a) It is DoD policy that contractors shall be required to identify
the Government's unit acquisition cost for all deliverable end items to
which item unique identification applies.
* * * * *
0
5. Section 211.274-6 is amended by--
0
a. Revising paragraph (a); and
0
b. Amending paragraph (c)(1) by removing the clause title ``Item
Identification and Valuation'' and adding in its place ``Item Unique
Identification and Valuation''.
The revision reads as follows:
211.274-6 Contract clauses.
(a)(1) Use the clause at 252.211-7003, Item Unique Identification
and Valuation, in solicitations and contracts, including solicitations
and contracts using FAR part 12 procedures for the acquisition of
commercial items, that require item identification or valuation, or
both, in accordance with 211.274-2 and 211.274-3.
(2) Identify in paragraph (c)(1)(ii) of the clause the contract
line, subline, or exhibit line item number and description of any
item(s) below $5,000 in unit acquisition cost for which DoD item unique
identification or a DoD recognized unique identification equivalent is
required in accordance with 211.274-2(a)(2).
(3) Identify in paragraph (c)(1)(iii) of the clause the applicable
attachment number, when DoD item unique identification or a DoD
recognized unique identification equivalent is required in accordance
with 211.274-2(a)(3)(i) through (v).
* * * * *
PART 212--ACQUISITION OF COMMERCIAL ITEMS
212.301 [Amended]
0
6. Section 212.301 is amended in paragraph (f)(ix) by removing the
clause title ``Item Identification and Valuation'' and adding in its
place ``Item Unique Identification and Valuation''.
PART 218--EMERGENCY ACQUISITIONS
0
7. Section 218.201(2) is revised to read as follows:
218.201 Contingency operation.
* * * * *
(2) Policy for item unique identification. Contractors will not be
required to provide DoD item unique identification if the items, as
determined by the head of the agency, are to be used to support a
contingency operation. See 211.274-2(b).
* * * * *
PART 246--QUALITY ASSURANCE
246.710 [Amended]
0
8. Section 246.710 is amended in paragraph (5)(i) introductory text by
removing the clause title ``Item Identification and Valuation'' and
adding in its place ``Item Unique Identification and Valuation''.
PART 252--SOLICITATION PROVISIONS AND CONTRACT CLAUSES
0
9. Amend section 252.211-7003 by--
0
a. Revising the section heading;
0
b. Revising the clause heading and the clause date;
0
c. Amending paragraph (a) by removing the definition title ``DoD unique
item identification'' and adding in its place ``DoD item unique
identification'';
0
d. Adding to paragraph (a), in alphabetical order, definitions for
``Data matrix'' and ``Type designation'';
0
e. Revising paragraph (c);
0
f. Revising paragraph (d) introductory text;
0
g. Adding paragraphs (d)(12) through (14);
0
h. Revising paragraph (e) introductory text;
0
i. Revising paragraph (f);
0
j. Revising paragraph (g); and
0
k. Removing Alternate I.
252.211-7003 Item unique identification and valuation.
* * * * *
ITEM UNIQUE IDENTIFICATION AND VALUATION (DEC 2013)
(a) * * *
Data matrix means a two-dimensional matrix symbology, which is made
up of square or, in some cases, round modules arranged within a
perimeter finder pattern and uses the Error Checking and Correction 200
(ECC200) specification found within International Standards
Organization (ISO)/International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
16022.
* * * * *
Type designation means a combination of letters and numerals
assigned by the Government to a major end item, assembly or
subassembly, as appropriate, to provide a convenient means of
differentiating between items having the same basic name and to
indicate modifications and changes thereto.
* * * * *
(c) Unique item identifier. (1) The Contractor shall provide a
unique item identifier for the following:
(i) Delivered items for which the Government's unit acquisition
cost is $5,000 or more, except for the following line items:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contract line, subline, or exhibit
line item No. Item description
------------------------------------------------------------------------
...................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(ii) Items for which the Government's unit acquisition cost is less
than $5,000 that are identified in the Schedule or the following table:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contract line, subline, or exhibit
line item No. Item description
------------------------------------------------------------------------
...................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(If items are identified in the Schedule, insert ``See Schedule'' in
this table.)
(iii) Subassemblies, components, and parts embedded within
delivered items, items with warranty requirements, DoD serially managed
reparables and DoD serially managed nonreparables as specified in
Attachment Number ----.
(iv) Any item of special tooling or special test equipment as
defined in FAR 2.101 that have been designated for preservation and
storage for a Major Defense Acquisition Program as specified in
Attachment Number ----.
[[Page 76073]]
(v) Any item not included in paragraphs (c)(1)(i), (ii), (iii), or
(iv) of this clause for which the contractor creates and marks a unique
item identifier for traceability.
(2) The unique item identifier assignment and its component data
element combination shall not be duplicated on any other item marked or
registered in the DoD Item Unique Identification Registry by the
contractor.
(3) The unique item identifier component data elements shall be
marked on an item using two dimensional data matrix symbology that
complies with ISO/IEC International Standard 16022, Information
technology--International symbology specification--Data matrix; ECC200
data matrix specification.
(4) Data syntax and semantics of unique item identifiers. The
Contractor shall ensure that--
(i) The data elements (except issuing agency code) of the unique
item identifier are encoded within the data matrix symbol that is
marked on the item using one of the following three types of data
qualifiers, as determined by the Contractor:
(A) Application Identifiers (AIs) (Format Indicator 05 of ISO/IEC
International Standard 15434), in accordance with ISO/IEC International
Standard 15418, Information Technology--EAN/UCC Application Identifiers
and Fact Data Identifiers and Maintenance and ANSI MH 10.8.2 Data
Identifier and Application Identifier Standard.
(B) Data Identifiers (DIs) (Format Indicator 06 of ISO/IEC
International Standard 15434), in accordance with ISO/IEC International
Standard 15418, Information Technology--EAN/UCC Application Identifiers
and Fact Data Identifiers and Maintenance and ANSI MH 10.8.2 Data
Identifier and Application Identifier Standard.
(C) Text Element Identifiers (TEIs) (Format Indicator 12 of ISO/IEC
International Standard 15434), in accordance with the Air Transport
Association Common Support Data Dictionary; and
(ii) The encoded data elements of the unique item identifier
conform to the transfer structure, syntax, and coding of messages and
data formats specified for Format Indicators 05, 06, and 12 in ISO/IEC
International Standard 15434, Information Technology-Transfer Syntax
for High Capacity Automatic Data Capture Media.
(5) Unique item identifier.
(i) The Contractor shall--
(A) Determine whether to--
(1) Serialize within the enterprise identifier;
(2) Serialize within the part, lot, or batch number; or
(3) Use a DoD recognized unique identification equivalent (e.g.
Vehicle Identification Number); and
(B) Place the data elements of the unique item identifier
(enterprise identifier; serial number; DoD recognized unique
identification equivalent; and for serialization within the part, lot,
or batch number only: Original part, lot, or batch number) on items
requiring marking by paragraph (c)(1) of this clause, based on the
criteria provided in MIL-STD-130, Identification Marking of U.S.
Military Property, latest version;
(C) Label shipments, storage containers and packages that contain
uniquely identified items in accordance with the requirements of MIL-
STD-129, Military Marking for Shipment and Storage, latest version; and
(D) Verify that the marks on items and labels on shipments, storage
containers, and packages are machine readable and conform to the
applicable standards. The contractor shall use an automatic
identification technology device for this verification that has been
programmed to the requirements of Appendix A, MIL-STD-130, latest
version.
(ii) The issuing agency code--
(A) Shall not be placed on the item; and
(B) Shall be derived from the data qualifier for the enterprise
identifier.
(d) For each item that requires item unique identification under
paragraph (c)(1)(i), (ii), or (iv) of this clause or when item unique
identification is provided under paragraph (c)(1)(v), in addition to
the information provided as part of the Material Inspection and
Receiving Report specified elsewhere in this contract, the Contractor
shall report at the time of delivery, as part of the Material
Inspection and Receiving Report, the following information:
(1) * * *
(12) Type designation of the item as specified in the contract
schedule, if any.
(13) Whether the item is an item of Special Tooling or Special Test
Equipment.
(14) Whether the item is covered by a warranty.
(e) For embedded subassemblies, components, and parts that require
DoD item unique identification under paragraph (c)(1)(iii) of this
clause or when item unique identification is provided under paragraph
(c)(1)(v), the Contractor shall report as part of the Material
Inspection and Receiving Report specified elsewhere in this contract,
the following information:
* * * * *
(f) The Contractor shall submit the information required by
paragraphs (d) and (e) of this clause as follows:
(1) End items shall be reported using the receiving report
capability in Wide Area WorkFlow (WAWF) in accordance with the clause
at 252.232-7003. If WAWF is not required by this contract, and the
contractor is not using WAWF, follow the procedures at https://dodprocurementtoolbox.com/site/uidregistry/.
(2) Embedded items shall be reported by one of the following
methods--
(i) Use of the embedded items capability in WAWF;
(ii) Direct data submission to the IUID Registry following the
procedures and formats at https://dodprocurementtoolbox.com/site/uidregistry/; or
(iii) Via WAWF as a deliverable attachment for exhibit line item
number (fill in) ----, Unique Item Identifier Report for Embedded
Items, Contract Data Requirements List, DD Form 1423.
(g) Subcontracts. If the Contractor acquires by contract any items
for which item unique identification is required in accordance with
paragraph (c)(1) of this clause, the Contractor shall include this
clause, including this paragraph (g), in the applicable subcontract(s),
including subcontracts for commercial items.
0
11. Amend Appendix F to Chapter 2 by--
0
a. Revising section F-103(e)(1);
0
b. Revising paragraph section F-301(b)(18) introductory text; and
0
c. Revising paragraph F-301(b)(18)(i).
The revisions read as follows:
APPENDIX F TO CHAPTER 2--MATERIAL INSPECTION AND RECEIVING REPORT
* * * * *
F-103 Use.
* * * * *
(e) * * *
(1) Item Unique Identification (IUID), when the clause at DFARS
252.211-7003, Item Unique Identification and Valuation is used in
the contract, reporting of IUID data is required. WAWF captures the
IUID data and forwards the data to the IUID registry after
acceptance. WAWF shall be used to report Unique Item Identifiers
(UIIs) at the line item level, unless an exception to WAWF applies,
and can also be used to report UIIs embedded at the line item level.
* * * * *
F-301 Preparation instructions.
* * * * *
(b) * * *
(18) Unit price. The contractor shall enter unit prices on all
WAWF RR copies.
(i) The contractor shall enter unit prices for each item of
property fabricated or acquired for the Government and delivered to
a
[[Page 76074]]
contractor as Government furnished property (GFP). Get the unit
price from Section B of the contract. If the unit price is not
available, use an estimate. The estimated price should be the
contractor's estimate of what the items cost the Government. When
the price is estimated, enter ``Estimated Unit Price'' in the
description field. However, if the contract has Item Unique
Identification (IUID) requirements and the receiving report is being
processed in WAWF, the unit price must represent the acquisition
cost that will be recorded in the IUID registry. Therefore, the unit
price is required (see the clause at DFARS 252.211-7003, Item Unique
Identification and Valuation). When delivering GFP via WAWF to
another contractor, WAWF will initiate a property transfer if the
vendor who is initiating the WAWF RR is also registered as a vendor
property shipper in WAWF and the vendor receiving the property is
also a vendor property receiver in WAWF.
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2013-29771 Filed 12-13-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 5001-06-P