General Services Administration Acquisition Regulation (GSAR); Adoption of Construction Project Delivery Method Involving Early Industry Engagement-Construction Manager as Constructor (CMc), 69627-69639 [2019-26367]

Agencies

• General Services Administration

[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 244 (Thursday, December 19, 2019)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 69627-69639]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-26367]



[[Page 69627]]

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GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

48 CFR Parts 501, 536, and 552

[GSAR Case 2015-G506; Docket No. GSAR-2018-0013; Sequence No. 1]
RIN 3090-AJ64


General Services Administration Acquisition Regulation (GSAR); 
Adoption of Construction Project Delivery Method Involving Early 
Industry Engagement--Construction Manager as Constructor (CMc)

AGENCY: Office of Acquisition Policy, General Services Administration 
(GSA).

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The General Services Administration (GSA) is issuing a final 
rule amending the General Services Administration Acquisition 
Regulation (GSAR) to adopt an additional project delivery method for 
construction, known as ``construction manager as constructor'' (CMc). 
The private sector commonly uses a similar construction project 
delivery method, which allows for early industry engagement by the 
construction contractor to enable reduced cost growth, reduced schedule 
growth, and administrative savings. The current Federal Acquisition 
Regulation (FAR) lacks coverage of the CMc project delivery method. GSA 
has previously issued policies on CMc through other means. 
Incorporating CMc into the GSAR provides centralized guidance to 
industry and ensures consistent application of construction project 
principles across GSA. Additionally, integrating these requirements 
into the GSAR allowed for revision and improvement of the requirements 
through public comments in the rulemaking process.

DATES: Effective Date: This final rule is effective on January 21, 
2020.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Christina Mullins, General 
Services Acquisition Policy Division, Procurement Analyst, by email at 
[email protected]. For information pertaining to status or publication 
schedules, contact the Regulatory Secretariat Division by mail at 1800 
F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, or by phone at 202-501-4755.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

I. Background

    CMc refers to a project management and contracting technique that 
is one of three predominant methods used for acquiring construction 
services by GSA. The other two methods are design-bid-build and design-
build. The CMc model used by GSA follows many industry best practices 
and has worked well for numerous GSA construction procurements. While 
there is ample guidance on traditional and design-build procurements in 
the FAR, there is no guidance on CMc procurement. By providing specific 
contracting guidance on CMc, GSA is adopting a major project delivery 
method that is similar to one commonly used by the private sector and 
is fundamentally updating the practice of buying construction services 
within the Federal Government. This move supports the Government's 
shift toward category management by providing a more robust playbook 
framework for efficient procurement of construction services. 
Additionally, incorporating CMc into the GSAR provides centralized 
guidance to industry that makes it easier to do business with the 
Government and ensures consistent application of construction project 
principles across GSA that provides for greater compliance with 
requirements.

II. Discussion and Analysis

    The GSAR Case 2015-G506 proposed rule was published in the Federal 
Register at 83 FR 55838 on November 8, 2018 and provided details on how 
GSA is amending the General GSAR to revise sections of GSAR Part 536, 
Construction and Architect-Engineer Contracts, and corresponding 
clauses in GSAR Part 552, Solicitation Provisions and Contract Clauses 
to incorporate CMc contracting. The proposed rule clarified, updated, 
and incorporated existing CMc guidance previously implemented through 
internal Public Building Service (PBS) policies.
    Bringing this existing CMc policy into the GSAR allows for greater 
transparency and provided an opportunity for the public to comment on 
these long-standing procedures. In addition, bringing CMc policies into 
one location ensures clarity and consistency that will make it easier 
for companies to do business with the Government and will provide 
better guidance to contracting officers.
    The CMc project delivery method is similar to project delivery 
models used extensively in the private sector for large complex 
construction projects. The CMc method engages the construction 
contractor during the design phase of the project and establishes a 
ceiling on the eventual construction price (i.e., the guaranteed 
maximum price (GMP)) before construction documents are prepared. The 
CMc method emphasizes technical qualifications for contractor 
selection, and includes price competition of the GMP before initial 
contract award and provides more detail on the GMP elements. The CMc 
project delivery method creates value through early collaboration 
between the architect and constructor. In addition to the benefits of 
design phase services, which include constructability reviews and cost 
estimating validation by the constructor, CMc offers the opportunity to 
begin construction prior to full completion of the design which reduces 
the total project schedule. GSA also provides a cost incentive through 
shared savings that are split between the constructor and the 
Government under CMc contracts which promotes constructor innovation 
and efficiencies to reduce costs through the construction phase of the 
project, see GSAR 536.7105-5.

A. Summary of Significant Changes

    The General Services Administration has reviewed all comments 
submitted in the development of this final rule.
    This final rule makes the following two significant changes from 
the proposed rule:

1. CMc Contingency Allowance (CCA)

    The definition at 536.7102 for CCA was revised to include 
scheduling error costs. The description in 536.7105-2 subparagraph 
(a)(3)(iii) regarding design errors and omissions has been deleted 
to more closely align with the definition provided for CCA in 
536.7102. The text at 536.7105-2 was also revised to clarify that 
the CCA may be adjusted through negotiation at the time of GMP 
option exercise, and to provide additional CCA flexibility up to 5 
percent with HCA approval.

2. Fee for Construction Work

    The definition at 536.7102 of ``Fee'' was revised to clarify 
that this definition encompasses solely profit and home office 
overhead costs. The description at 536.7105-2 was revised to allow 
adjustment to the Fee for scope changes and Government-caused 
delays. Additionally, GSA revised the definition of cost to mean all 
allowable costs per FAR Part 31, removing the limitation for direct 
cost only.

    A full discussion of all the comments received and the changes made 
to the rule as a result of those comments is provided below.

B. Analysis of Public Comments

    GSA received comments on the proposed rule from five respondents. 
Comments are grouped into categories in order to provide clarification 
and to better respond to the issues raised.
1. Economic Impact
    i. Comment: As a supporting statement, an industry group 
representing general contractors recognized that many aspects of the

[[Page 69628]]

CMc project delivery method are aligned with the private sector, 
including early collaboration between the construction contractor and 
the architect, early work packages for things like demolition, and the 
use of shared savings incentives. The commenter noted that further 
alignment of CMc to the private sector model can increase interest and 
competition from the market for Government projects. They further 
explained that deviations from private sector models, especially those 
that are punitive in nature, such as audit requirements, can have the 
opposite effect and outcome.
    Response: GSA recognizes that there are differences between CMc and 
the private sector, and believes that the CMc model as presented in the 
rule strikes the right balance of adopting industry best practices for 
construction while adhering to the constraints of Government statutory 
requirements and ensuring appropriate risk management in the best 
interests of the Government. No changes were made to the proposed rule 
as a result of these comments.
    ii. Comment: As a supporting statement, an industry group 
representing general contractors suggested changes to the text to 
clarify that a reduction in specific sunk costs is attributable to 
lower costs associated with the solicitation process.
    Response: The final rule was revised to clarify that sunk costs 
associated with price proposal preparation efforts may be lower with 
CMc as compared with the design-build.
    iii. Comment: An industry group representing architects noted that 
the CMc method as drafted did not take into account the increased time 
and effort expended by the architect-engineer contractor in design 
reviews and cost saving option reviews under a CMc project that goes 
above and beyond ``normal'' responsibilities.
    Response: GSA does not believe that design reviews and cost saving 
option reviews under a CMc project are beyond normal responsibilities 
of a typical architect-engineer contract. As such, no additional costs 
need to be taken into account. Design reviews are not unique to the CMc 
project delivery method and any early collaboration under CMc should 
only result in cost saving options being identified earlier in the 
project when such options are more easily addressed.
2. Miscellaneous
    i. Comment: A model building code industry respondent provided 
comments to the proposed rule specifically commenting on building code 
requirements and application to this rule. The respondent noted that 
they take no position on the proposed rule language, but make general 
notes regarding compliance provisions, and whether those provisions 
should be codified in the CFR.
    Response: The GSA PBS P-100 Guide provides considerable details on 
implementing building code compliance, and is incorporated in GSA 
construction contracts. Codifying building codes in the CFR is beyond 
the scope of this rule. No changes were made to the proposed rule as a 
result of these comments.
    ii. Comment: An industry group representing general contractors 
suggested that GSA should mandate collaboration between the architect-
engineer and CMc contractors during the design phase.
    Response: The final rule further clarifies the expectation that the 
architect-engineer and CMc contractor must collaborate during the 
design phase. The final rule clarifies at GSAR 536.7105-1(d), that 
``During the design phase, the architect-engineer contractor and the 
construction contractor shall collaborate on the design and 
constructability issues''.
    iii. Comment: An industry group representing design-build 
contractors recommends the use of the progressive design-build project 
delivery method.
    Response: The design-build project delivery method is already 
addressed in the FAR (see FAR 36.3) and is beyond the scope of this 
rule. No changes were made to the proposed rule as a result of this 
comment.
    iv. Comment: A few other suggestions and comments were made by 
industry groups representing architects and general contractors, 
including: 1. Suggestion to allow conversion to FFP after 75 percent 
versus 100 percent of the construction documents were completed, 2. 
Comment that the use of alternates across clauses is inconsistent and 
may be confusing, 3. Comment that the order of precedence is not 
consistent with typical practice, and 4. Suggestion to review an 
industry organization's CMc contracts more specifically.
    Response: GSA considered allowing conversion to FFP after 75 
percent completion of the construction documents, but concluded that to 
more effectively protect taxpayer dollars, 100 percent as presented in 
the proposed rule was more appropriate. Prior to 100 percent 
construction documents, a GMP type contract allocates risk more 
appropriately between the Government and contractor since the design is 
not complete and details may still change that materially affect the 
price, limiting the ability to establish good firm prices. GSA believes 
the structure of alternates for clauses is appropriate. Andy any 
differences between industry models or typical practices and the GSA 
CMc model were driven by unique statutory or regulatory requirements, 
including the Competition in Contracting Act of 1984 (CICA), 41 U.S.C. 
3301. No changes were made to the proposed rule as a result of these 
comments.
3. Value Engineering
    Comment: An industry association representing general contractors 
provided a comment on value engineering. The comment notes that value 
engineering is a key component of the CMc contract method. It is the 
main tool the CMc offers through its design phase owner consultation to 
assist in aligning the scope with the target ECW. Incorporation of 
efficiencies, innovation, fast-tracked scheduling and economical 
materials/systems are critical to the best value approach.
    Additionally, an industry group representing general contractors 
suggested that when exercising the GMP option, if the ECW, CCA and Fee 
exceed the GMP, then the ECW should be reduced through value 
engineering and/or scope modifications.
    Response: While the CMc may suggest the incorporation of 
efficiencies, innovation, fast-tracked scheduling and economical 
materials/systems, value engineering is a formal technique described at 
FAR Part 48, and is different from the design phase services contracted 
from a general contractor under CMc. In accordance with FAR 48.202, the 
clause at FAR 52.248-3 Value Engineering--Construction, shall not be 
included in incentive-type construction contracts. Accordingly, value 
engineering shall not apply to the CMc project delivery method 
described in this subpart. No changes were made to the proposed rule as 
a result of this comment. Additionally, GSAR 536.7105-2(c)(3) has been 
revised to state that ``If the sum of the final ECW, CCA, and fee for 
the construction work is greater than the GMP as established at 
contract award or as adjusted in accordance with FAR Part 43, then the 
contracting officer should work with the contractor to identify 
measures to reduce the overall GMP. Such measures may include reducing 
the CCA, reducing the fee, or as a last resort, reducing the scope of 
the project.
4. Managing Risks
    Comment: An industry group representing general contractors 
provided comments related to managing risk. They provided suggestions 
to significantly reduce or eliminate

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liquidated damages, to remove reimbursement of certain audit costs, and 
to remove the ability to withhold 10 percent of payment requests if the 
contractor fails to comply with GSAR 552.236-80, Accounting Records and 
Progress Payments. The respondent noted that these elements are not in 
alignment with this delivery method.
    Response: While CMc is viewed more as a partnership between GSA and 
CMc contractor, GSA maintains that additional audit and accountability 
risk management measures are appropriate to manage risk or are required 
by existing laws and regulations. Similar to other government delivery 
methods, CMc includes these measures to protect the Government and its 
partners. Liquidated damages and other risk management tools are used 
to appropriately mitigate issues and concerns that could arise. 
Similarly, the Government provides remedies for contractors to collect 
equitable adjustments for changes that could arise. GSA maintains the 
text at 552.236-80 regarding audits and retainage as appropriate risk 
management. This clause provides clear details on how the audit and 
retainage requirements apply.
5. Procurement Timing
    Comment: Three respondents provided comments regarding procurement 
timing. An industry group representing general contractors commented 
that CMc should be procured as early as possible in the design phase, 
ideally prior to the concept design. A construction industry commenter 
recommended that GSA require, at a minimum, the programming, schematics 
and concepts be complete. An industry group representing architects 
commented that when the CMc is not brought on early enough, the 
architect is then forced to adjust when the design is over budget. They 
affirmed that the request for proposal should be issued early in the 
design phase, preferably during concept design to allow early cost 
savings suggestions from the CMc.
    Response: The rule includes flexible language so that each project 
can individually balance the goal of early collaboration with the 
ability to permit meaningful price competition (see GSAR 536.7103(a)).
6. A/E Role and Compensation
    Comment: An industry group representing architects provided 
comments related to the role and compensation of the architect/engineer 
under a CMc project. The respondent commented that CMc increases the 
time and effort expended by the architect-engineer contractor in design 
reviews and cost saving options. Also, the respondent noted that 
clarity is needed to ensure the architect/engineer retains control of 
the design decision making. The industry group representing architects 
noted that GSA should inform the architect/engineer of the construction 
project delivery method prior to design fee negotiations, so that the 
architect-engineer can prepare appropriately. The industry group 
representing architects also commented that there is no defined 
liability for who is responsible for design changes that are due to 
constructor contractor issues. Additionally, a construction industry 
commenter recommended that GSA should consider adding a provision 
requiring the designer to design to the Target ECW that the CMc 
proposes.
    Response: GSA reviewed and appreciates the comments provided. The 
rule is written to provide sufficient guidance on CMc and coordination 
with the architect/engineer. GSA believes that informing the architect/
engineer of the construction project delivery method prior to design 
fee negotiations, when possible, is a good practice. GSA believes the 
existing architect/engineer contract clauses appropriately detail the 
responsibilities and requirements for changes. The clause at FAR 
52.243-1, Changes--Fixed-Price (Alternate III), provides a mechanism 
for the A/E to request an equitable adjustment, if appropriate. GSA's 
Design Excellence policy is still applicable and Government personnel 
should be involved in all design decision making. Lastly, the A/E 
contract is established prior to CMc offerors proposing a Target ECW. 
However, the A/E contract already contains the clause at FAR 52.236-22, 
Design Within Funding Limitations. No changes to the regulatory text 
were made as a result of these comments.
7. Accounting and Auditing Requirements
    Comment: An industry group representing general contractors 
provided comments to adjusting the text at 536.7105-3 Accounting and 
Auditing Requirements. Several suggestions are provided to revise the 
GSAR text provided in the proposed rule noting that ``Audits are not 
applicable in this contracting and procurement method. This auditing 
requirement should be removed from this rule.''
    Response: GSA did not adopt suggested changes to the text in the 
proposed rule. GSA maintains that open book accounting and audit 
requirements are appropriate in this procurement method. For example, 
the amount, if any, of the shared savings incentive, is determined by 
the difference between the final GMP and the final cost of performance 
(see 536.7105-5(a)). To protect the public interest, an audit of the 
CMc's costs is required before determining the amount of shared 
savings, if any.
8. Cost Accounting Standards (CAS)
    Comment: Two respondents provided a comment on the application of 
CAS and its applicability to CMc. An industry organization representing 
general contractors noted that modified CAS should be applied and do 
away with open book accounting, and an industry construction commenter 
noted that full CAS should be applied as it is currently noted and 
referenced in FAR Part 30.
    Response: GSA has determined that the application of open book 
accounting and auditing requirements provides the Government the best 
flexibility to review and maintain cost elements. The requirements 
allow for maximum competition amongst all qualified contractors looking 
to service the Government through CMc contracting. Based on the 
variation in comments provided, GSA is confident that the requirements 
in FAR Subpart 30.2 \1\ for full CAS compliance for applicable 
negotiated contracts over $50 million, modified CAS compliance for 
applicable negotiated contracts below $50 million, and open book 
accounting practices are appropriate for CMc contracting.
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    \1\ FAR 30.201 states that ``Title 48 CFR 9903.201-1 (FAR 
Appendix) describes the rules for determining whether a proposed 
contract or subcontract is exempt from CAS. Negotiated contracts not 
exempt in accordance with 48 CFR 9903.201-1(b) shall be subject to 
CAS. A CAS-covered contract may be subject to either full or 
modified coverage. The rules for determining whether full or 
modified coverage applies are in 48 CFR 9903.201-2 (FAR Appendix).''
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9. Incentives
    Comment: Two respondents provided comments on performance 
incentives and the element of shared savings. An industry group 
representing general contractors provided suggestions for early 
completion bonuses or successive targets. Both the industry group 
representing general contractors and an industry group representing 
architects suggested that GSA include a shared savings incentive for 
the architect/engineer.
    Response: GSA reviewed and appreciates the comments provided. 
Regarding an early completion bonus for the CMc, the CMc contract 
already contains a shared savings incentive (see GSAR 536.7105-5). 
Early completion

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may be one way the CMc is able to reduce costs and increase the 
potential for shared savings. Regarding an incentive for the architect/
engineer, GSA does not believe that is necessary to successfully 
implement and experience the benefits of CMc. No changes to the 
regulatory text were made as a result of these comments.
10. Contingency Allowance (CCA)
    Comments: An industry group representing general contractors 
suggested adjustment to the definition of CCA provided at 536.7102 by 
including the word ``scheduling'' as an included cost element. They 
also suggested that GSA set the minimum CCA at 3 percent. A commenter 
from the construction industry questioned the CCA's purpose and whether 
the CCA is meant to be a true ``allowance''. This same industry 
commenter noted that CCAs should not include design errors and 
omissions.
    Response: GSA adopted the suggestion to adjust the definition of 
CCA at 536.7102. GSA adopted the suggestion for proper alignment with 
536.7102 by deleting 536.7105-2(a)(3)(iii) regarding design errors and 
omissions. GSA also provided additional CCA flexibility up to 5 percent 
with HCA approval.
11. Fee for Construction Work
    i. Comment: Two respondents provided comments on the structure and 
definition of ``Fee for Construction Work''. An industry group 
representing general contractors noted that the Fee cannot include all 
of the contractor's indirect costs. Some indirect costs are a function 
of the ECW as a percentage. Therefore, they fluctuate with increases 
and decreases in price. They also add, there needs to be a 
clarification between the industry defined general conditions (staffing 
related costs) and general requirements (indirect costs such as 
hoisting, cranes, field engineering, etc.). A construction industry 
commenter believes that GSA's proposed fee structure raises several 
issues. First, they note that general conditions typically are not part 
of a contractor's fee, but instead, are actual costs. Thus, including 
them as part of the fee will create confusion during an audit. Second, 
they note that the definition's reference to overhead is unclear as it 
does not specify whether ``overhead'' means field office overhead or 
home office overhead.
    Response: GSA has revised the definition of fee to specifically 
mean profit and home office overhead costs. GSA revised fee guidance to 
allow adjustment to the fee for scope changes and Government-caused 
delays. Additionally, GSA revised the definition of cost.
    ii. Comment: An industry group representing general contractors 
noted that the ``proposal form typically includes a proposed rate (%) 
for Overhead (Corp G&A), profit and commission for scope changes. This 
should be used in all CMc RFP's to establish these rates ``up-front''. 
The price proposal forms used by the Government are not aligned with 
the mark-up percent provisions of 552.243-71 Equitable Adjustments. 
Either the pricing form should be changed to include the provisions 
(especially subparagraph (h)), or the GSAR equitable adjustments mark-
ups should be modified to a ``flat'' rate as currently modeled by the 
Government's price proposal form.''
    Response: The rule provides flexibility by not providing a 
``required proposal form'', however, GSAR 536.7105-2(a)(4)(iv), notes 
that ``The limitations of GSAR 552.243-71, especially markups, still 
apply for any changes.''
12. Guaranteed Maximum Price
    i. Comment: An industry group representing general contractors and 
a construction contractor provided comments on the GMP guidance at 
536.7105-2. These comments included a suggestion that GSA adjust the 
language to say GMP ``may'' be modified downward for deletions during 
the design phase. They provided further suggested adjustments to the 
language to allow for an increase to the GMP for ``no fault of CMc'' 
issues. Another comment requests GSA provide additional guidance on how 
the various evaluation criteria must be weighted and expressed concern 
that the pricing structure effectively incentivizes contractors to 
submit an artificially low price and further assumes that the lowest 
price proposal will be selected absent a compelling reason to select a 
higher priced proposal. Lastly, they noted that the evaluation should 
consider contractor approach to maximize the project within the GMP.
    Response: GSA has reviewed and appreciates the comments provided. 
GSA has adopted the suggestion to provide greater flexibility for GMP 
modifications for deletions during the design phase. GSA notes that the 
GMP is subject to adjustment under various standard contract clauses, 
including the changes clause, differing site conditions clause, and 
suspensions clause. GSAR 536.7103(b)(1)(i) provides that the technical 
evaluation factors, when combined, shall be considered significantly 
more important than cost or price. The rule provides flexibility by not 
establishing required technical evaluation factors or specific weights 
for technical evaluation factors. Additionally, the commenter's 
assumption that the lowest price proposal will always be selected is 
not consistent with the flexibility provided by FAR 15.101-1, Tradeoff 
Process. Regarding the concern that that the pricing structure 
effectively incentivizes contractors to submit an artificially low 
price, see GSAR 536.7103(b)(2), which states that a price realism 
analysis is required ``for the purpose of assessing, among others, 
whether an offeror's price reflects a lack of understanding of the 
contract requirements or risk inherent in an offeror's proposal.''
    ii. Comment: An industry group representing general contractors 
commented that the target ECW is not bonded and that while the CMc can 
advise the Owner and its design team on changes to make to adhere the 
target ECW, the CMc has no control over the outcome, quality, 
coordination and/or completeness of the design.
    Response: As stated in GSAR 536.7105-1(d), ``During the design 
phase, the architect-engineer contractor and the construction 
contractor shall collaborate on the design and constructability issues. 
The goal of this collaboration is to establish a final ECW that does 
not exceed the original target ECW.'' No changes to the regulatory text 
were made as a result of this comment.
    iii. Comment: An industry group representing general contractors 
commented that each of the Owner's contractors should validate program 
requirements with the project prospectus prior to advancing from one 
design phase to the next and certainly before exercising the 
construction phase.
    Response: GSA appreciates the comment. Under CMc, the Government 
has flexibility to adopt appropriate project management techniques. No 
changes to the regulatory text were made as a result of this comment.

III. Expected Economic Impact of This Rule

    All three predominant construction project delivery methods, 
Design-Bid-Build (D-B-B), Design/Build (D-B), and Construction Manager 
as Constructor (CMc), have merit. CMc specifically allows for early 
industry engagement by the construction contractor that can provide a 
net economic burden reduction compared with the other project delivery 
methods. An Economic Impact Analysis (EIA) reflecting the data and 
benefits of CMc has been prepared

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consistent with the principles of OMB Circular A-4 and is summarized as 
follows:

    A study by the Pankow Foundation \2\ as well as GSA's own data 
analysis, further detailed herein, have shown that early engagement 
by the construction contractor under a CMc project can provide 
reduced cost growth, reduced schedule growth and administrative 
savings, resulting in a net economic burden reduction compared with 
other project delivery methods.
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    \2\ Leicht, R.M., Molenaar, K.R., Messner, J.I., Franz, B.W., 
and Esmaeili, B. (2015). Maximizing Success in Integrated Projects: 
An Owner's Guide. Version 0.9, May. Available at https://bim.psu.edu/delivery.
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    All economic impact estimate calculations were based on 
discussions with GSA subject matter experts from the PBS Office of 
Design and Construction and PBS Office of Acquisition Management, 
and the following data. Historic data was gathered and analyzed from 
GSA's Electronic Planning Module (ePM),\3\ an internal system which 
was mandated as a project management tool for construction starting 
in 2009. Historic data was also gathered and analyzed from the 
Federal Procurement Data System (FPDS),\4\ the authoritative source 
for government wide contract award data.
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    \3\ A total of 124 GSA capital construction contracts (i.e. over 
prospectus) were completed between 2009 and 2016. Capital 
construction contracts were selected as they were determined to be 
the most likely to be suitable for the CMc project delivery method.
    \4\ A total of 283 construction contracts (i.e. PSC of Y1xx or 
Z2xx) over the current prospectus threshold of $3M were awarded by 
GSA between 2009 and 2016. On average 4.4 offers were received for 
each solicitation. Of the total population, 125 (44%) were large 
business awards and 158 (56%) were small business awards.
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    The results of the analysis showed this rule will provide a net 
deregulatory savings of 9,405 hours ($659,011), or ($488,710) when 
annualized at a 7 percent discount. These savings are a result of 
the following elements:
    A. Reduced Schedule Growth: Under a CMc project delivery method, 
the general contractor (GC) for construction work is engaged through 
a separate contract during the design phase of the project, 
sometimes as early as 30 percent design completion. By comparison, 
under a design-bid-build (D-B-B) project delivery method, the GC is 
not engaged through a separate contract until the design is 100 
percent complete. Under a design-build (D/B) project delivery 
method, the GC and the architect are part of the same contract with 
the Government. The early engagement of the GC under CMc may create 
collaboration between the architect and the GC. This early 
engagement also offers the opportunity to begin advanced work on 
certain elements of the project while the design is finalized. For 
example, an early work package may be definitized to allow for 
demolition work to be done, which is not typically impacted by the 
final touches of a design. Similarly, site preparation work to clear 
the land for a project may be started. This concurrent work while 
the design is completed can result in meaningful schedule savings. 
Analysis of the GSA capital construction project data from ePM 
showed that on average the reduced schedule growth potential for CMc 
projects is 75 days. This allows for increased efficiency for a 
senior project manager (PM), senior CO, and journeyman CS. Based on 
subject matter expertise, the PM would save 6 hours per day, the CO 
would save 2.5 hours per day, and the CS would save 5 hours per day. 
Based on the historic ePM data, GSA estimated that 10 capital 
projects funded annually would use the CMc method. Given this 
population, the total annual savings to the Government is 10,125 
hours ($701,343). Similar savings to the public may be realized and 
may be reflected as direct cost savings in the contract, but cannot 
be quantified.
    B. Final GMP Proposal: For CMc projects, the contract begins as 
a fixed price incentive contract type where the guaranteed maximum 
price (GMP) negotiated at the outset is the price ceiling for the 
contract. This contract type is necessary because the design is not 
complete and all the costs for the construction work cannot be 
determined. However, once the design for a project is completed, the 
final GMP for the construction work can be established and the 
contract can be converted to a firm fixed price (FFP) contract type. 
This may be attractive to both industry and Government. A conversion 
to FFP allows the contractor to end cost accounting standard (CAS) 
compliance efforts. Conversion to FFP also allows the Government to 
further mitigate risk by placing the full responsibility for all 
costs on the contractor. In order to execute this conversion, the 
contractor must submit a revised proposal for the final GMP. Based 
on subject matter expertise within GSA, it is assumed that the 
contractor will require 40 hours of effort to obtain subcontractor 
quotes, adjust costs and submit a new proposal for the final GMP 
element. It is assumed that the Government will require 20 hours of 
effort to review and negotiate the final GMP. The total annual 
burden to the public is 400 hours ($22,076) and to the Government is 
200 hours ($11,038).
    C. Regulation Familiarization: GSA Class Deviation SPE-2012-04-
02 has been in place for several years and provides the existing 
policies and procedures for CMc construction projects. GSAR Case 
2015-G506 essentially incorporates these existing policies and 
procedures. However, there are some clarifications and updates to 
these policies that reflect on lessons learned and best practices 
over the years. These changes include: clarification on the level of 
design development required for CMc procurement competition, further 
details as to what is included in the fee for construction work, and 
guidance for establishing separate allowance items. The rule 
contains minimal changes from existing policies and procedures for 
CMc methods, and thus, should result in minimal burden to understand 
new requirements. Based on subject matter expertise within GSA, it 
is assumed that industry and Government alike will require two 
additional hours during the solicitation phase to review and 
understand the differences between the existing policy and this rule 
in order to provide a representative proposal. Based on the historic 
FPDS data, GSA estimated that 5 offers would be received for each 
CMc project. Given this population, the total annual burden to the 
public is 100 hours ($7,755) and to the Government is 20 hours 
($1,464).
    D. Unquantified Benefits: There are several economic benefits 
specific to CMc that are expected to reduce burden that are 
difficult to quantify. Although not easily quantifiable they 
collectively represent additional meaningful savings to qualify this 
rule as deregulatory.
    1. Direct cost savings may result from potential reduced 
schedule growth for CMc projects. Construction projects include 
general conditions and other costs that are calculated by a daily 
rate. If a CMc project finishes earlier, the total direct costs will 
be lower.
    2. Early collaboration between the CMc and architect allows for 
(a) innovation during design that leads to fewer change orders 
during construction, and (b) identification of conflicts or errors 
before work investments are made.
    3. As compared with design-build projects, CMc projects will 
reduce sunk costs associated with price proposal preparation efforts 
and lower barriers to entry for industry to submit proposals and 
compete in this space. Design-build project solicitations often 
require a detailed concept level design submission as part of the 
proposal. Offerors must partner with an architecture-engineering 
firm at great expense to obtain these design concepts in order to 
prepare and submit an offer to the Government.
    4. Early work packages under CMc allow for advanced execution of 
certain elements while the design is finalized, such as demolition 
or site preparation work, which are not typically impacted by the 
final touches of a design. These early work package elements can be 
removed from the GMP and converted to separate firm-fixed-price 
(FFP) line items. Conversion to a FFP may allow the Government to 
lock-in lower prices and allow the CMc to subcontract labor trades 
earlier. In a tight labor or material market, this may translate to 
meaningful cost and schedule savings.

    Interested parties may obtain a copy of the complete EIA from the 
Regulatory Secretariat Division.

IV. Executive Orders 12866 and 13563

    Executive Orders (E.O.s) 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess 
all costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if 
regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize 
net benefits (including potential economic, environmental, public 
health and safety effects, distributive impacts, and equity). E.O. 
13563 supplements E.O. 12866 and emphasizes the importance of 
quantifying both costs and benefits, of reducing costs, of harmonizing 
rules, and of promoting flexibility. This is a significant regulatory 
action and, therefore, was subject to review under section 6(b) of E.O. 
12866, Regulatory

[[Page 69632]]

Planning and Review, dated September 30, 1993. This rule is not a major 
rule under 5 U.S.C. 804.

V. Executive Order 13771

    This rule is considered an E.O. 13771 deregulatory action. Details 
on the estimated savings of this final rule can be found in the rule's 
economic impact analysis detailed in Section III.

VI. Executive Order 13777

    This rule has been identified by GSA's Regulatory Reform Task Force 
as a rule that improves efficiency by eliminating procedures with costs 
that exceed the benefits as described in Section III.

VII. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    GSA 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, at 5 U.S.C. 601, et seq., because the 
rule will incorporate clauses that are currently in use in GSA 
construction solicitations and contracts and contractors are familiar 
with and are currently complying with these practices. However, a Final 
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (FRFA) has been prepared. There were no 
comments submitted in response to the initial regulatory flexibility 
analysis provided in the proposed rule. The FRFA has been prepared 
consistent with the criteria of 5 U.S.C. 604 and is summarized as 
follows:

    The final rule amends the General Services Administration 
Acquisition Regulation (GSAR) coverage on construction contracts, 
including clauses for solicitations and resultant contracts, to 
clarify, update, and incorporate existing guidance on the 
construction manager as constructor (CMc) project delivery method.
    There were no comments submitted and therefore no significant 
issues raised by the public in response to the initial regulatory 
flexibility analysis provided in the proposed rule.
    The final rule changes will apply to approximately 10 GSA 
construction contracts per year. Of these, approximately 6 (60 
percent) contracts may be held by small businesses. The final rule 
is unlikely to affect small businesses awarded GSA CMc construction 
contracts as it implements clauses currently in use in CMc 
solicitations and contracts. The final rule does not pose any new 
reporting, recordkeeping or other compliance requirements.

    The Regulatory Secretariat Division has submitted a copy of the 
FRFA to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business 
Administration. Interested parties may obtain a copy of the FRFA from 
the Regulatory Secretariat Division.

VIII. Paperwork Reduction Act

    There are two information collection requests associated with this 
rule.
    First, this rule requires contractors to keep all relevant 
documents for a period of three years after the final payment. This 
requirement is currently covered by existing OMB Control Number 9000-
0034, titled: Examination of Records by Comptroller General and 
Contract Audit; Sections Affected: FAR 52.215-2; FAR 52.212-5; FAR 
52.214-26.
    Second, this rule requires contractors to submit revised proposals 
and negotiate contract modifications during contract administration. 
OMB has cleared this information collection requirement \5\ under OMB 
Control Number 3090-0320, titled: Construction Manager as Constructor 
(CMc); GSAR Section Affected: 552.236-79, in the amount of 400 burden 
hours. No comments were received on the information collection 
requirement that was provided in the proposed rule; however, due to the 
use of more current data to calculate the burden, revisions were made 
to the burden estimate associated with the collection.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \5\ The 30-day Federal Register Notice associated with IC 3090-
0320 was published at 84 FR 42917 on August 19, 2019.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

List of Subjects in 48 CFR Parts 501, 536, and 552

    Government procurement.

Jeffrey A. Koses,
Senior Procurement Executive, Office of Acquisition Policy, Office of 
Government-wide Policy.
    Therefore, GSA amends 48 CFR parts 501, 536, and 552 as set forth 
below:

0
1. The authority citation for 48 CFR parts 501, 536, and 552 continues 
to read as follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c).

PART 501--GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION ACQUISITION REGULATION 
SYSTEM

0
2. Amend section 501.106 by adding to the table, in numerical order, 
GSAR references ``552.236-79'' and ``552.236-80'' and their 
corresponding OMB control numbers ``3090-0320'' and ``9000-0034'' to 
read as follows:


501.106  OMB approval under the Paperwork Reduction Act.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                            OMB control
                     GSAR reference                             No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                * * * * *
552.236-79..............................................       3090-0320
552.236-80..............................................       9000-0034
 
                                * * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------

PART 536--CONSTRUCTION AND ARCHITECT-ENGINEER CONTRACTS

0
3. Add section 536.102 to read as follows:


536.102  Definitions.

    Construction-Manager-as-Constructor (CMc) means the project 
delivery method where design and construction are contracted 
concurrently through two separate contracts and two separate 
contractors. Unlike the traditional design-bid-build delivery method, 
under the CMc delivery method, the Government awards a separate 
contract to a designer (i.e., architect-engineer contractor) and to a 
construction contractor (i.e., CMc contractor) prior to the completion 
of the design documents. The Government retains the CMc contractor 
during design to work with the architect-engineer contractor to provide 
constructability reviews and cost estimating validation. The CMc 
contract includes design phase services at a firm-fixed-price and an 
option for construction at a guaranteed maximum price.

0
4. Amend section 536.515 by--
0
 a. Removing from the introductory text ``Use the clause--'' and adding 
``Use the clause:'' in its place;
0
 b. Removing from paragraph (a) ``will be followed; or'' and adding 
``will be followed.'' in its place; and
0
 c. Adding paragraph (c) to read as follows:


536.515  Schedules for construction contracts.

* * * * *
    (c) With its Alternate III when the contract amount is expected to 
be above the simplified acquisition threshold and a construction-
manager-as-constructor project delivery method will be followed.

0
5. Revise section 536.521 to read as follows:


536.521  Specifications and drawings for construction.

    Insert the clause at 552.236-21, Specifications and Drawings for 
Construction, in solicitations and contracts if construction, 
dismantling, demolition, or removal of improvements is contemplated. 
Use the clause:
    (a) With its Alternate I when a design-build project delivery 
method will be followed.
    (b) With its Alternate II when a construction-manager-as-
constructor

[[Page 69633]]

project delivery method will be followed.

0
 6. Revise section 536.571 to read as follows:


536.571  Contractor responsibilities.

    Insert the clause at 552.236-71, Contractor Responsibilities, in 
solicitations and contracts if construction, dismantling, demolition, 
or removal of improvements is contemplated. Use the clause:
    (a) With its Alternate I when a design-build project delivery 
method will be followed.
    (b) With its Alternate II when a construction-manager-as-
constructor project delivery method will be followed.

Subpart 536.70--[Reserved]

0
 7. Add and reserve Subpart 536.70.

0
8. Add subpart 536.71 to read as follows:

Subpart 536.71--Construction-Manager-as-Constructor Contracting

Sec.
536.7101 Scope of subpart.
536.7102 Definitions.
536.7103 Construction contract solicitation procedures.
536.7104 Construction contract award.
536.7105 Construction contract administration.
536.7105-1 Responsibilities.
536.7105-2 Guaranteed maximum price.
536.7105-3 Accounting and auditing requirements.
536.7105-4 Value engineering.
536.7105-5 Shared savings incentive.
536.7105-6 Allowances.
536.7105-7 Early work packages.
536.7105-8 Conversion to firm-fixed-price.
536.7106 Construction contract closeout.
536.7107 Contract clauses.


536.7101  Scope of subpart.

    This subpart describes policies and procedures for the use of the 
CMc project delivery method.


536.7102  Definitions.

    As used in this subpart--
    CMc Contingency Allowance (CCA) means an allowance for the 
exclusive use of the construction contractor to cover reimbursable 
costs during construction that are not the basis of a change order. 
These costs could include estimating, scheduling, and planning errors 
in the final Estimated Cost of the Work (ECW) or other contractor 
errors.
    Cost means allowable costs in accordance with FAR Part 31.
    Cost of Performance means the final sum of cost of the construction 
work and fee for the construction work.
    Early Work Package means a set of construction activities that can 
be clearly defined and separately performed from the remainder of the 
construction work. Demolition is an example of an early work package.
    Estimated Cost of the Work (ECW) means the estimated cost of the 
construction work, not including home office overhead.
    Fee for the Construction Work means the amount established in the 
construction contract for the contractor's profit and home office 
overhead costs, as described in FAR part 31, for the construction work.
    Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) means the sum of the ECW, CCA, and 
the fee for the construction work.


536.7103  Construction contract solicitation procedures.

    (a) Procurement Timing. The request for proposals should be issued 
only when the project design requirements have been developed to a 
sufficient degree of specificity to permit competition with meaningful 
pricing for the ECW. The contracting officer should obtain written 
documentation for the contract file from the project manager that the 
project design requirements satisfy the condition stated in this 
section.
    (b) Proposal Evaluation.
    (1) Evaluation Factors.
    (i) Except as provided in paragraph (ii) of this section, the 
solicitation shall provide that the technical evaluation factors, when 
combined, shall be considered significantly more important than cost or 
price.
    (ii) Subject to the approval of the HCA, the weighting of the 
technical evaluation factors and cost or price may be different than 
that required under paragraph (i) of this section. Any such written 
approval shall be documented in the contract file.
    (2) Price Realism. The contracting officer shall provide for a 
price realism analysis in the solicitation for the purpose of 
assessing, among others, whether an offeror's price reflects a lack of 
understanding of the contract requirements or risk inherent in an 
offeror's proposal. The solicitation shall provide offerors with notice 
that the agency intends to perform a price realism analysis.
    (3) Total Evaluated Price. For purposes of evaluation, the total 
evaluated price shall include the firm-fixed-price for design phase 
services, the construction work GMP option(s), and any other fixed-
priced line items. If advance pricing elements such as extended 
overhead rates and daily delay rates are proposed, those shall also be 
evaluated as part of the total evaluated price.
    (c) Government Budget (e.g., Prospectus) Information. Subject to 
the approval of the contracting director, the solicitation may include 
information contained or referenced within a prospectus submission to 
Congress for a project.


536.7104  Construction contract award.

    In accordance with FAR 4.1001, the contracting officer shall use 
the SF 1442 to identify the services or items to be acquired as 
separately identified line items on a unit price or lump sum basis 
including the design phase services, the construction work GMP 
option(s), and any other work not included in the previously identified 
items.


536.7105  Construction contract administration.


536.7105-1  Responsibilities.

    (a) During all phases of the project, the architect-engineer 
contractor that is providing design services under a separate contract 
with GSA is contractually responsible for the design in the same manner 
as under a traditional, design-bid-build project delivery method.
    (b) The design phase services provided by the construction 
contractor can include, but are not limited to, scheduling, systems 
analysis, subcontractor involvement, cost-estimating, constructability 
reviews, cost-reconciliation services, and market analysis.
    (c) The scope of work should task the construction contractor with 
reviewing the design documents and providing pricing information at 
various defined milestones during the design phase.
    (d) During the design phase, the architect-engineer contractor and 
the construction contractor shall collaborate on the design and 
constructability issues. The goal of this collaboration is to establish 
a final ECW that does not exceed the original target ECW.
    (e) No discussions between the architect-engineer contractor and 
the construction contractor shall be considered as a change to the 
construction contract or design contract unless incorporated by the 
contracting officer through a modification.


536.7105-2  Guaranteed Maximum Price.

    (a) General.
    (1) GMP.
    (i) The GMP is the ceiling price described by FAR 16.403-2.
    (ii) The GMP is established at contract award. The GMP may be 
established as one option or as multiple options through separate line 
items, with a separate GMP amount for each line item.

[[Page 69634]]

    (iii) The GMP is subject to adjustment under various standard 
contract clauses, including the changes clause, differing site 
conditions clause, and suspensions clause.
    (iv) The contract file shall contain all documents to support any 
scope changes including a separate analysis to document the rationale 
for any upward or downward adjustment to the GMP.
    (2) ECW.
    (i) The proposed ECW incorporated at construction contract award is 
the target ECW.
    (ii) The final ECW should be established prior to completion of the 
design (i.e. 100 percent construction documents), generally no earlier 
than completion of 75 percent construction documents.
    (iii) The contracting officer shall negotiate the final ECW and 
incorporate it into the construction contract through a bilateral 
modification prior to exercising the GMP option.
    (3) CCA.
    (i) The CCA type of allowance may only be used as part of the CMc 
project delivery method and should not be confused with other types of 
allowances that may be used with other construction project delivery 
methods.
    (ii) The CCA provides for a contingency relative to a fixed 
percentage of the ECW, except for the requirements at paragraph (c)(3) 
of this section. The CCA at time of GMP option exercise is subject to 
negotiation between the contractor and the contracting officer and may 
be different than the amount at time of contract award.
    (iii) The amount of the CCA will depend on the status of design and 
construction, as well as the complexity and uncertainties of the 
project. Early phase designs usually include less defined scope and, 
accordingly, may require a higher initial CCA at time of contract 
award. Later phase designs may remove uncertainties and reduce risk, 
allowing for a lower CCA at time of GMP option exercise.
    (iv) The CCA shall not exceed 3 percent of the ECW, unless approved 
in writing by the HCA for a higher amount not to exceed 5 percent of 
the ECW.
    (4) Fee for the Construction Work.
    (i) The fee may be proposed per phase of construction if each phase 
is a separate option.
    (ii) At time of proposal submission, the offeror shall submit a 
list of the items included within the offeror's home office overhead.
    (iii) At time of proposal submission, the fee elements may be 
expressed as a percentage of the ECW, but shall be converted to a fixed 
amount prior to executing the GMP option.
    (iv) The fee for the construction work is not increased or 
decreased based on fluctuations in the actual costs of the work. The 
fee may, however be adjusted for changes that are the basis for a 
change order, including scope changes, differing site conditions, and 
Government-caused delays.
    (v) Any fee for the construction work associated with a change 
order shall not be driven by a fixed percentage. The contracting 
officer should determine whether the profit included, if any, in a 
contractor's proposal is reasonable, see FAR 15.404-4 for additional 
guidance. The limitations of GSAR 552.243-71, especially markups, still 
apply for any changes.
    (b) Design Phase.
    (1) The GMP may be bilaterally modified upward during the design 
phase only for approved additions to the scope of work.
    (2) The GMP may be bilaterally modified downward during the design 
phase for deletions to the scope of work.
    (c) Exercising the GMP Option.
    (1) The GMP option shall not be exercised until the final ECW is 
established.
    (2) If the sum of the final ECW, CCA, and fee for construction work 
is less than the GMP as established at contract award or as adjusted in 
accordance with FAR Part 43, then the contracting officer shall adjust 
the GMP downward accordingly through a bilateral modification to 
exercise the GMP option.
    (3) If the sum of the final ECW, CCA, and fee for the construction 
work is greater than the GMP as established at contract award or as 
adjusted in accordance with FAR Part 43, then the contracting officer 
should work with the contractor to identify measures to reduce the 
overall GMP. Such measures may include reducing the CCA, reducing the 
fee, or as a last resort, reducing the scope of the project.
    (4) The GMP option shall not be exercised if the final ECW, CCA, 
and fee for the construction work is greater than the GMP as 
established at contract award or as adjusted in accordance with FAR 
Part 43.
    (d) Construction Phase.
    (1) After award of the GMP option, changes in scope may be issued 
as an adjustment to the GMP or as a stand-alone firm-fixed-price line 
item.
    (2) Any changes in scope after award of the GMP option shall be 
reflected by a written modification to the construction contract in 
accordance with FAR Part 43.
    (e) Early Work Package. (1) Early work packages (see 536.7105-7) 
may be used in the procurement that are priced separately or included 
in the GMP option.
    (2) If any early work package exercised reduces the scope of the 
construction services under the GMP option, the ECW shall be reduced, 
and the CCA, fee for the construction work, and GMP shall be adjusted 
accordingly.
    (f) GMP Adjustment. (1) Any changes to the total GMP or individual 
parts of the GMP must be incorporated in the contract through a 
modification.
    (2) Any modification that changes the GMP, including modifications 
for early work packages and fixed price conversions, must clearly state 
that it includes a change to the GMP and describe the changes to the 
individual parts of the GMP components in the modification.
    (3) Any modification that changes the total GMP, or individual 
parts of the GMP, is subject to the requirement for a prenegotiation 
objectives memo and price negotiation memo, including fair and 
reasonable price determination, per FAR 15.406.
    (4) The contracting officer should consult other members of the 
acquisition team, including the project manager, to analyze and justify 
any adjustments to the total GMP, or individual parts of the GMP.


536.7105-3  Accounting and auditing requirements.

    (a) Cost Accounting Standards. (1) Except as provided in paragraph 
(a)(2) of this section or through an exemption at FAR 30.201-1, 
construction contracts under the CMc project delivery method are 
subject to the cost accounting standards (CAS) identified in FAR Part 
30.
    (2) The contracting officer may request a CAS waiver in accordance 
with the requirements at FAR 30.201-5 and 530.201-5.
    (3) If CAS applies, the contract clauses identified at FAR 30.201-4 
shall be included in the contract.
    (4) If a CAS waiver is granted or if CAS does not apply, the 
contract clause identified at 536.7107(b) shall be included in the 
contract.
    (b) GMP Option Accounting. (1) Open Book Accounting. Open book 
accounting shall be followed for financial tracking of all contract 
line items that are awarded on a GMP basis. Such financial tracking may 
be accomplished through an audit in accordance with paragraph (c) of 
this section.
    (2) Payments and Reconciliation. All payments shall be reconciled 
with the

[[Page 69635]]

open book accounting records and the schedule of values adjusted, as 
appropriate. Reconciliation shall occur each month and should be 
coordinated with monthly progress payments. The reconciliation shall be 
documented in the contract file.
    (c) Auditing Requirements. In accordance with GSAM 542.102(a), for 
any audit services required by this Subpart 536.71, the contracting 
officer shall first request such services be performed by or through 
the Assistant Inspector General for Auditing or the Regional Inspector 
General for Auditing. If the Office of Inspector General declines to 
perform such an audit, the contracting officer may obtain audit 
services from a certified public accountant.


536.7105-4  Value engineering.

    In accordance with FAR 48.202, the clause at FAR 52.248-3 Value 
Engineering-Construction does not apply to incentive contracts. 
Accordingly, value engineering, as that term is used and described in 
FAR Part 48, shall not apply to the CMc project delivery method 
described in this subpart.


536.7105-5  Shared savings incentive.

    (a) General. The incentive is a shared portion of the difference 
between the final GMP and the final cost of performance. Cost 
reductions may be realized by the construction contractor as a result 
of innovations and efficiencies during the construction phase, such as 
increased labor productivity or strong material subcontract 
negotiations.
    (b) Share Ratio. (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this 
section, the share ratio for the construction contractor shall range 
from 30 percent to 50 percent. The share ratio for the construction 
contractor shall not exceed 50 percent. The complexity of the project 
and the amount of risk to the construction contractor should be 
considered when determining the ratio. A project with greater risk to 
the construction contractor should reflect a greater share ratio for 
the construction contractor.
    (2) Subject to the approval of the HCA, the share ratio may be 
different than that required under paragraph (b)(1) of this section. 
Any such written approval shall be documented in the contract file.
    (c) Incentive calculation. The incentive amount is calculated in 
accordance with the clause at 552.236-79 Construction-Manager-As-
Constructor.


536.7105-6  Allowances.

    (a) Establishing a separate allowance in addition to the CCA is 
only permitted pursuant to a written determination approved by the 
contracting director supporting the use of any such allowance.
    (b) The written determination for a separate allowance in addition 
to the CCA shall consider the following:
    (1) Alternative contracting structures, such as a separate GMP line 
item or performing the work as part of the GMP option, and
    (2) Ensuring conformance with all applicable rules and procedures 
relating to allowances, including FAR 11.702.


536.7105-7  Early work packages.

    (a) Construction services for an early work package must be within 
the scope of the overall contract.
    (b) Early work packages may be part of the initial procurement as a 
separately priced line item, or the Government and the construction 
contractor may agree to develop an early work package after award, 
typically identified toward the beginning of the project.
    (c) Early Work Packages Developed After Award.
    (1) The parties shall bilaterally agree to the scope, schedule, and 
pricing for any such early work package, and the contract shall be 
modified in accordance with FAR Part 43.
    (2) If any such early work package reduces the scope of the 
construction services under the GMP option, the ECW shall be reduced, 
and the CCA, fee for the construction work, and GMP shall be adjusted 
accordingly.
    (3) Any modification to the contract for an early work package is 
subject to the requirement for a prenegotiation objectives memo and 
price negotiation memo, including fair and reasonable price 
determination, per FAR 15.406.
    (d) Early work packages that are firm-fixed-price are not subject 
to open book accounting, a shared savings incentive, or the need for 
determination of final settlement.


536.7105-8  Conversion to Firm-Fixed-Price.

    (a) At any time after completion of 100 percent construction 
documents, the Government and the construction contractor may 
bilaterally convert the whole contract to firm-fixed-price.
    (b) Conversion to firm-fixed-price may occur after the contingency 
risks, to be covered by the CCA, have been sufficiently reduced in the 
best interest of the Government. See FAR 16.103(b) for additional 
guidance for assessing risk management, profit motive, and timing 
considerations.
    (c) Conversion to firm-fixed-price is only permitted pursuant to a 
written determination from the contracting officer to the contract file 
supporting the conversion. The contracting officer should consult other 
members of the acquisition team, including the project manager, to 
analyze and justify the conversion.
    (d) The contracting officer shall not agree to a firm-fixed-price 
in excess of the GMP.
    (e) In accordance with 536.7105-3(c), the contracting officer shall 
obtain an independent audit of the construction contractor's costs 
incurred in the performance of the contract to date.
    (f) When evaluating the construction contractor's proposal for 
firm-fixed-price definitization, the contracting officer should compare 
the anticipated final cost to the firm-fixed-price being proposed. It 
may be reasonable for the construction contractor to include a 
contingency for assuming the risk associated with agreeing to the firm-
fixed-price. The contracting officer should evaluate this contingency 
to ensure that the proposed amount reasonably reflects the remaining 
risks being assumed by the construction contractor. This evaluation may 
be informed by the history of the project, the balance of the CCA, and 
other factors.
    (g) The modification to convert to a firm-fixed-price is subject to 
the requirement to obtain cost and pricing data unless one of the 
exceptions in FAR 15.403-1 applies.
    (h) The modification to convert to a firm-fixed-price is subject to 
the requirement for a prenegotiation objectives memo and price 
negotiation memo, including fair and reasonable price determination, 
per FAR 15.406.
    (i) Upon converting to a firm-fixed-price, the contract is no 
longer subject to open book accounting, a shared savings incentive, or 
the need for determination of final settlement.


536.7106  Construction contract closeout.

    Unless the contract has been converted to a standard firm-fixed-
price contract (see 536.7105-8)--
    (a) The contracting officer shall ensure that the construction 
contractor's proposal for final settlement is accurate and reliable in 
accordance with the open book accounting practices of the contract.
    (b) In accordance with 536.7105-3(c), the contracting officer shall 
obtain an independent audit of the construction contractor's costs.

[[Page 69636]]

536.7107  Contract clauses.

    (a) Insert a clause substantially the same as the clause at 
552.236-79, Construction-Manager-As-Constructor, in solicitations and 
contracts if construction, dismantling, or removal of improvements is 
contemplated when a CMc project delivery method will be followed. This 
clause is in lieu of the clause at FAR 52.216-17 Incentive Price 
Revision--Successive Targets.
    (b) Insert a clause substantially the same as the clause at 
552.236-80, Accounting Records and Progress Payments, in solicitations 
and contracts if construction, dismantling, or removal of improvements 
is contemplated when a CMc project delivery method will be followed and 
cost accounting standards do not apply. This clause is used when the 
clauses at FAR 52.230-2 Cost Accounting Standards, FAR 52.230-3 
Disclosure and Consistency of Cost Accounting Practices, and FAR 
52.230-6 Administration of Cost Accounting Standards do not apply.

PART 552--SOLICITATION PROVISIONS AND CONTRACT CLAUSES

0
11. Amend section 552.236-15 by adding Alternate III to read as 
follows:


552.236-15  Schedules for Construction Contracts.

* * * * *
    Alternate III (JAN 2020). As prescribed in 536.515(c), substitute 
the following paragraphs (c), (e), (h), and (i) for paragraphs (c), 
(e), (h), and (i) of the basic clause:
    (c) Submission. (1) Within 30 calendar days of contract award, or 
such other time as may be specified in the contract, the Contractor 
shall submit the design phase project schedule.
    (2) Within 30 calendar days after establishing the final estimated 
cost of work, the Contractor shall submit the construction phase 
project schedule, together with a written narrative describing the 
major work activities, activities on the critical path, and major 
constraints underlying the sequence and logic of the project schedule.
    (e) Activities. (1) The design phase project schedule shall depict 
all activities necessary to complete the design work, including, as 
applicable, all submittal and submittal review activities, cost 
reconciliation, and establishing the estimated cost of work for the 
construction phase.
    (2) The Contractor shall use a critical path method project 
schedule to plan, coordinate, and perform the construction phase work.
    (3) The construction phase project schedule shall depict all 
activities necessary to complete the construction work, including, as 
applicable, all submittal and submittal review activities, all 
procurement activities, and all field activities, including 
mobilization, construction, start-up, testing, balancing, 
commissioning, and punchlist.
    (4) Activities shall be sufficiently detailed and limited in 
duration to enable proper planning and coordination of the work, 
effective evaluation of the reasonableness and realism of the project 
schedule, accurate monitoring of progress, and reliable analysis of 
schedule impacts.
    (5) Activity durations shall be based upon reasonable and realistic 
allocation of the resources required to complete each activity, given 
physical and logistical constraints on the performance of the work. All 
logic shall validly reflect physical or logistical constraints on 
relationships between activities. Except for the first and last 
activities in the project schedule, each activity shall have at least 
one predecessor and one successor relationship to form a logically 
connected network plan from notice to proceed to the contract 
completion date.
    (h) Revisions to the schedule. (1) The Contractor should anticipate 
that the project schedule will be subject to review and may require 
revision. The Contractor shall devote sufficient resources for 
meetings, revisions, and resubmissions of the project schedule to 
address any exceptions taken. The Contractor understands and 
acknowledges that the purpose of the review and resolution of 
exceptions is to maximize the usefulness of the project schedule for 
contract performance.
    (2) If the Contractor proposes a revision to the project schedule 
after initial approved submission, the Contractor shall provide in 
writing a narrative describing the substance of the revision, the 
rationale for the revision, and the impact of the revision on the 
projected substantial completion date and the available float for all 
activities.
    (i) Updates. Unless a different period for updates is specified 
elsewhere, the Contractor shall update the project schedule monthly to 
reflect actual progress in completing the work, and submit the updated 
project schedule within 5 working days of the end of each month.

0
 12. Amend section 552.236-21 by adding Alternate II to read as 
follows:


552.236-21  Specifications and Drawings for Construction.

* * * * *
    Alternate II (JAN 2020). As prescribed in 536.521(b), add the 
following paragraph to the basic clause:
    (h) For the purposes of this clause, specifications and drawings 
refer only to the construction documents, meaning the 100 percent 
complete specifications and construction drawings developed during the 
design phase.

0
13. Amend section 552.236-71 by adding Alternate II to read as follows:


552.236-71  Contractor Responsibilities.

* * * * *
    Alternate II (JAN 2020). As prescribed in 536.571(b), delete 
paragraphs (d), (e), (f), and (g) of the basic clause, and insert 
paragraphs (d), (e), (f), (g), (h), (i), and (j) as follows:
    (d) The Contractor shall be responsible for performing the design 
phase services in accordance with the statement of work. The Contractor 
shall submit all deliverables and reports in accordance with the 
statement of work.
    (e) The Contractor shall be responsible to review all design 
information (e.g. draft specifications and drawings) provided. The 
Contractor shall be responsible for determining that the project as 
described in the design information is constructible using commercially 
practicable means and methods; that the construction work is described 
in the design documents with sufficient completeness to enable pricing 
of a complete project within the guaranteed maximum price; and that the 
manner of presentation and organization of information in the design 
documents enables accurate estimation of the cost of the work.
    (f) Prior to establishment of the final estimated cost of work, the 
Contractor shall bring to the Contracting Officer's attention all 
instances that it has discovered or has been made aware of where design 
errors and omissions affect the Contractor's ability to accurately 
estimate the cost of the work.
    (g) Where installation of separate work components as shown in the 
contract will result in conflict or interference between such 
components or with existing conditions, including allowable tolerances, 
it is the Contractor's responsibility to bring such conflict or 
interference to the attention of the Contracting Officer and seek 
direction before fabrication, construction, or installation of any 
affected work. If the Contractor fabricates, constructs, or installs 
any work prior to receiving such direction, the Contractor shall be 
responsible for all cost and time incurred to resolve or mitigate such 
conflict or interference.
    (h) Where drawings show work without specific routing, dimensions,

[[Page 69637]]

locations, or position relative to other work or existing conditions, 
and such information is not specifically defined by reference to 
specifications or other information supplied in the contract, the 
Contractor is responsible for routing, dimensioning, and locating such 
work in coordination with other work or existing conditions in a manner 
consistent with contract requirements.
    (i) It is not the Contractor's responsibility to ensure that the 
contract documents comply with applicable laws, statutes, building 
codes and regulations. If it comes to the attention of the Contractor 
that any of the contract documents do not comply with such 
requirements, the Contractor shall promptly notify the Contracting 
Officer in writing. If the Contractor performs any of the work prior to 
notifying and receiving direction from the Contracting Officer, the 
Contractor shall assume full responsibility for correction of such 
work, and any fees or penalties that may be assessed for non-
compliance.
    (j) The Contractor is responsible to construct the project in 
accordance with the drawings and specifications. The final Estimated 
Cost of the Construction Work (ECW) may be determined based upon 
incomplete design documents. In those instances in which the drawings 
and specifications are not complete at the time the final ECW is 
established, the Contractor shall exercise reasonable care and judgment 
to determine the intent of the design and shall calculate the final ECW 
on the basis of the quality of construction, materials, and finishes 
that can be reasonably inferred from the design documents or other 
specified sources.

0
14. Add sections 552.236-79 and 552.236-80 to read as follows:


552.236-79  Construction-Manager-As-Constructor.

    As prescribed in 536.7107(a), insert the following clause:

Construction-Manager-As-Constructor (JAN 2020)

    (a) General. Pricing for the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) for 
the option for construction services shall be subject to the 
requirements below.
    (b) Definitions. The following definitions shall apply to this 
clause:
    Construction-Manager-as-Constructor (CMc) Contingency Allowance 
(CCA) means an allowance for the exclusive use of the construction 
contractor to cover reimbursable costs during construction that are 
not the basis of a change order. These costs could include 
estimating, scheduling, and planning errors in the final Estimated 
Cost of the Work (ECW) or other contractor errors.
    Cost means allowable costs in accordance with FAR Part 31.
    Cost of Performance means the final sum of cost of the 
construction work and fee for the construction work.
    Early Work Package means a set of construction activities that 
can be clearly defined and separately performed from the remainder 
of the construction work. Demolition is an example of an early work 
package.
    Estimated Cost of the Work (ECW) means the estimated cost of the 
construction work, not including home office overhead.
    Fee for the Construction Work means the amount established for 
the contractor's profit and home office overhead costs, as described 
in FAR Part 31, for the construction work.
    Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) means the sum of the ECW, CCA, 
and the fee for the construction work.
    (c) Guaranteed Maximum Price. This contract at award includes a 
GMP.
    (d) Estimated Cost of the Work. The proposed ECW incorporated 
into the contract at award is a target ECW. A final ECW is 
negotiated during the design phase and is incorporated into the 
contract prior to exercise of the GMP option.
    (e) Final Estimated Cost of the Work.
    (1) Submission Requirements for Final ECW Proposal. During the 
design phase, and at a time agreed by the Contracting Officer, the 
Contractor shall submit the following:
    (i) A detailed statement of all construction costs, including 
early work packages in the performance of the construction work to 
date;
    (ii) A detailed breakdown of home office overhead costs and a 
statement that the accounting practices used for the allocation of 
home office overhead on this contract is in accordance with the 
Contractor's established cost accounting practices;
    (iii) A proposed final ECW;
    (iv) Sufficient data to support the accuracy and reliability of 
the estimate;
    (v) An explanation of the difference between the proposed final 
ECW and the target ECW used to establish the GMP; and
    (vi) The Contractor's affirmation that:
    (A) The Contractor is satisfied that the project as described in 
the specifications and construction drawings is constructible using 
commercially practicable means and methods;
    (B) The Contractor is satisfied that the construction work has 
been sufficiently described to enable it to estimate the cost of the 
work with reasonable accuracy;
    (C) The Contractor has disclosed to the Contracting Officer all 
of its actual knowledge relating to design errors and omissions that 
may affect the cost of the work; and
    (D) The Contractor acknowledges that the final ECW and time 
established for completion shall not be adjusted on account of cost 
or time attributable to known design errors and omissions disclosed 
by the Contractor pursuant to paragraph (e)(1)(v)(C) of this clause. 
Unknown design errors and omissions that form the basis for a change 
order may still be settled in accordance with GSAR 552.243-71 
Equitable Adjustments.
    (2) Establishment of the Final ECW. The parties shall negotiate 
a final ECW based on the data provided under paragraph (e)(1) of 
this clause. The final ECW shall be established and incorporated 
into the Contract by bilateral modification. The Contracting Officer 
will not accept a final ECW proposal that does not include the 
written affirmation described in this clause. The Contracting 
Officer will not exercise the GMP option for construction work 
unless the final ECW has been incorporated into the contract.
    (f) CMc Contingency Allowance. The CCA shall be _ percent of the 
ECW [Contracting Officer insert percentage amount].
    (g) Shared Savings Incentive. The Contractor shall be entitled 
to _percent of the difference between the final GMP and the final 
cost of performance [Contracting Officer insert percentage amount].
    (h) Adjustment of ECW and GMP. The ECW and GMP shall be subject 
to adjustment for changes and any other conditions giving rise to 
entitlement to an adjustment under this contract. The ECW and GMP 
may be adjusted down for deletions to the scope of the construction 
services through a bilateral modification.
    (i) Adjustment of CCA. If the sum of the final ECW, CCA, and fee 
for the construction work is greater than the GMP as established at 
contract award or as adjusted in accordance with FAR Part 43, then 
the Contractor should work with the Contracting Officer to identify 
measures to reduce the overall GMP, including reducing the CCA, 
reducing the fee, or as a last resort, reducing the scope of the 
project. At any time, the parties may agree to a different CCA than 
the amount expressed at time of contract award. Prior to the use of 
the CCA, the Contractor shall coordinate approval following the 
procedures identified in the contract. For approved CCA uses, the 
CCA shall be reduced and the ECW shall be adjusted accordingly.
    (j) Adjustment of the Fee for the Construction Work. The fee for 
the construction work may be adjusted for changes that are the basis 
for a change order, including scope changes, differing site 
conditions, and Government-caused delays. The fee for the 
construction work associated with a change order shall not be driven 
by a fixed percentage. The fee for the construction work is not 
increased or decreased based on fluctuations in the actual costs of 
the work. At time of proposal submission, the fee elements may be 
expressed as a percentage of the ECW, but shall be converted to a 
fixed amount prior to executing the GMP option.
    (k) Conversion to Firm-Fixed-Price Prior to Final Settlement.
    (1) Submission Requirements for Conversion to Firm-Fixed Price. 
If the parties agree to negotiate and establish a firm-fixed-price 
for construction work prior to the exercise of the GMP option, or at 
the request of the Contracting Officer, the Contractor shall submit 
the following:
    (i) A proposed firm-fixed-price proposal for the completion of 
the construction work, which shall include all markups, including 
profit.
    (ii) A detailed statement of any costs incurred in the 
performance of the contract work to date.
    (2) Establishment of Firm-Fixed-Price.

[[Page 69638]]

    (i) Prior to Exercise of GMP Option. The parties may negotiate 
and establish a firm-fixed-price for construction work prior to the 
exercise of the GMP option based on the data provided under 
paragraph (k)(1) of this clause; provided that the firm-fixed-price 
shall not exceed the GMP. The Contracting Officer shall have the 
right, but not the obligation, to bilaterally exercise the GMP 
option at the firm-fixed-price within 120 calendar days of the 
establishment of such price.
    (ii) After Exercise of the GMP Option. At any time prior to 
final settlement, the Contracting Officer may request that the 
Contractor provide a firm-fixed-price proposal for the completion of 
construction work in accordance with paragraph (k)(1) of this 
clause. Within 60 calendar days of such request, the Contractor 
shall provide such data. Within 60 calendar days of receipt of the 
Contractor's proposal, the Contracting Officer shall have the right, 
but not the obligation, to convert the contract to a firm-fixed-
price contract through a bilateral modification at the proposed 
fixed-price or as otherwise negotiated by the parties; provided that 
the firm-fixed-price, plus any costs incurred in the performance of 
the construction work, shall not exceed the GMP.
    (iii) If any portion of the contract is converted to a firm-
fixed-price, then that portion of the contract is no longer subject 
to open book accounting, a shared savings incentive, or the need for 
final settlement. If the contract is not converted to a firm-fixed-
price contract, then the final settlement of the Contractor's 
compensation shall be determined in accordance with paragraph (l) of 
this clause.
    (3) Payments. If this contract is converted to a firm-fixed-
price contract, the Contractor shall submit a revised schedule of 
values for the construction work allocating the unpaid balance of 
the fixed price to the itemized work activities remaining 
uncompleted, which shall be the basis for remaining progress 
payments.
    (l) Final Settlement. The final settlement amount shall consist 
of the cost of performance and the Contractor's shared savings 
incentive, if any, provided that in no event shall the final 
settlement exceed the GMP. The final settlement amount shall be the 
Contractor's total compensation due under the contract.
    (1) Submission Requirements for Final Settlement Proposal. The 
Contractor shall submit a final settlement proposal within 120 days 
of substantial completion to determine the cost of the construction 
work, which shall include the following:
    (i) A detailed statement of all costs incurred by the Contractor 
in performing the construction work;
    (ii) A firm-fixed-price proposal for the performance of the 
remaining work, if any, that may be necessary to complete 
performance of the construction work;
    (iii) An executed release of claims, which shall describe any 
and all exceptions, including a description of any outstanding 
claims; and
    (iv) Any other relevant data that the Contracting Officer may 
reasonably require.
    (2) Determination of the Cost of the Work. The cost of the 
construction work shall be the sum of all costs incurred by the 
Contractor in performing the construction work, the proposed fixed 
price for performance of remaining work, if any, less the residual 
value of any Contractor retained inventory. In order to determine 
the cost of the construction work, the Contractor shall be subject 
to an audit of the Contractor's records and/or the Contractor's 
proposal. Establishment of the cost of the construction work shall 
be subject to negotiation between the Government and the Contractor. 
In the event that the parties are unable to reach agreement, the 
Contracting Officer may unilaterally determine the cost of the 
construction work, and such determination shall be subject to FAR 
Clause 52.233-1 Disputes.
    (3) Determination of the Shared Savings Incentive. If the final 
cost of performance is equal to or greater than the final GMP, the 
Contractor is not entitled to any additional compensation. If the 
final cost of performance is less than the final GMP, the Contractor 
is entitled to the percentage specified in paragraph (g) of this 
clause, of the difference between the final GMP and the final cost 
of performance, as the shared savings incentive.
    (m) Subcontracts. No subcontract placed under this contract may 
provide for cost-plus-a-percentage of cost. Any costs incurred by 
the Contractor as a result of such a subcontract shall not be 
included in the cost of the construction work or the final 
settlement.
    (n) Open Book Access. (1) At any time prior to converting to 
firm-fixed-price, the Government and its representatives, including 
designated auditors and accountants, shall have the right, but not 
the obligation, to attend any and all project meetings and shall 
have access to any and all records maintained by the Contractor 
relating to the contract. The Contractor shall include this 
requirement for open book access by the Government in its 
subcontracts for the contract.
    (2) After converting to firm-fixed-price, the Government 
maintains the right to examine records under GSAR Clause 552.215-70.
    (o) Termination. If this Contract is terminated, the Contractor 
shall not be entitled to a shared savings incentive.
    (p) The contractor agrees to incorporate the substance of this 
clause in all subcontracts under this contract.


(End of Clause)


552.236-80  Accounting Records and Progress Payments.

    As prescribed in 536.7107(b), insert the following clause:

Accounting Records and Progress Payments (JAN 2020)

    (a) The Contractor shall keep full and detailed accounts and 
exercise such controls as may be necessary for proper financial 
management under this contract. The Contractor's accounting and 
control systems shall meet Generally Accepted Accounting Principles 
(GAAP) and provide for the following:
    (1) There is proper segregation of direct costs and indirect 
costs.
    (2) There is proper identification and accumulation of direct 
costs by contract.
    (3) There is a labor time distribution system that charges 
direct and indirect labor appropriately.
    (b) The Contractor shall afford access to and shall permit any 
authorized representatives of the Government to audit, examine and 
copy any records, documents, books, correspondence, instructions, 
drawings, receipts, subcontracts, purchase orders, vouchers, 
memoranda, and other data relating to this contract. Records subject 
to audit, examination, and copying shall include those records 
necessary to evaluate and verify all direct and indirect costs, 
including overhead and payroll tax and fringe benefit allocations, 
as they may apply to costs associated with the contract. The 
Contractor shall preserve these records for a period of three years 
after the final payment, or for such longer period as may be 
required by law.
    (c) The records identified in paragraphs (b) of this clause 
shall be subject to inspection and audit by the Government or its 
authorized representative for, but not limited to, evaluating and 
verifying:
    (1) Contractor compliance with contract requirements;
    (2) Compliance with pricing change orders, invoices, 
applications for payment, or claims submitted by the contractor or 
any of its subcontractors at any tier, including vendors and 
suppliers.
    (d) If requested by the Government, the Contractor shall 
promptly deliver to the Government or its designee copies of all 
records related to the contract, in a form acceptable to the 
Government. The Contractor shall provide to the Government or its 
authorized representative such records maintained in an electronic 
format in a computer readable format on data disks or suitable 
alternative computer data exchange formats.
    (e) The Government shall have access to the Contractor's 
facilities, shall be allowed to interview all current and former 
employees to discuss matters pertinent to the contract, and shall be 
provided adequate work space, in order to conduct audits and 
examinations.
    (f) If any audit or examination of the Contractor's records 
discloses total findings resulting in overpricing or overcharges by 
the Contractor to the Government in excess of one-quarter percent of 
the total contract billings, the Contractor shall immediately 
reimburse the Government for the overcharges. The Contractor shall 
also reimburse the Government for the costs of the audit unless 
otherwise agreed to by the Government and the Contractor.
    (g) The Government shall be entitled to audit all modifications, 
including lump-sum modifications, to determine whether the proposed 
costs, as represented by the Contractor and any of its 
subcontractors, are in compliance with the contract. If it is 
determined that the costs proposed under a modification, including 
lump-sum modifications, are not in compliance with the contract, the 
Government reserves the right to adjust the amount previously 
approved and included in the modification.
    (h) If the Contractor fails to comply with any conditions in 
this clause, the Contracting

[[Page 69639]]

Officer may retain a maximum of 10 percent of the amount of each 
payment request submitted until such deficiencies are corrected.
    (i) These requirements regarding accounting records shall not 
mitigate, lessen nor change any other requirements in the contract 
regarding audits, payment submissions, records, or records 
retention.
    (j) The contractor agrees to incorporate the substance of this 
clause in all subcontracts under this contract.


(End of Clause)

[FR Doc. 2019-26367 Filed 12-18-19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-21-P