Semiannual Regulatory Agenda, 16978-16990 [2021-04359]

Download as PDF 16978 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 60 / Wednesday, March 31, 2021 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION 48 CFR Chapter 1 Semiannual Regulatory Agenda Department of Defense (DoD), General Services Administration (GSA), and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda. AGENCY: This agenda provides summary descriptions of regulations being developed by the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense Acquisition Regulations Council in SUMMARY: compliance with Executive Order 12866 ‘‘Regulatory Planning and Review.’’ This agenda is being published to allow interested persons an opportunity to participate in the rulemaking process. The Regulatory Secretariat Division has attempted to list all regulations pending at the time of publication, except for minor and routine or repetitive actions; however, unanticipated requirements may result in the issuance of regulations that are not included in this agenda. There is no legal significance to the omission of an item from this listing. Also, the dates shown for the steps of each action are estimated and are not commitments to act on or by the dates shown. Published proposed rules may be reviewed in their entirety at the Government’s rulemaking website at https://www.regulations.gov. Lois Mandell, Division Director, Regulatory Secretariat Division, 1800 F Street NW, 2nd Floor, Washington, DC 20405–0001, 202–501–4755. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: DoD, GSA, and NASA, under their several statutory authorities, jointly issue and maintain the FAR through periodic issuance of changes published in the Federal Register and produced electronically as Federal Acquisition Circulars (FACs). The electronic version of the FAR, including changes, can be accessed on the FAR website at https:// www.acquisition.gov/far. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Dated: September 4, 2020. William F. Clark, Director, Office of Government-wide Acquisition Policy, Office of Acquisition Policy, Office of Government-wide Policy. DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR)—PROPOSED RULE STAGE Regulation Identifier No. Sequence No. Title 358 .................... 359 .................... FAR Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2015–038, Reverse Auction Guidance ................................. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017–014, Use of Acquisition 360 to Encourage Vendor Feedback. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017–013, Breaches of Personally Identifiable Information. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017–016, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) ..... Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–002, Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance .. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–006; Definition of Subcontract ............................... Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–012, Rights to Federally Funded Inventions and Licensing of Government-Owned Inventions. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–013, Exemption of Commercial and COTS Item Contracts From Certain Laws and Regulations. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–014, Increasing Task-Order Level Competition ..... Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–007, Update of Historically Underutilized Business Zone Program. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–008, Small Business Program Amendments ......... Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–010, Efficient Federal Operations .......................... Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–015, Improving Consistency Between Procurement & Non-Procurement Procedures on Suspension and Debarment. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–016, Maximizing Use of American-Made Goods, Products and Materials. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–004, Application of the MPT to Certain Task and Delivery Orders. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–005, Explanations to Unsuccessful Offerors on Certain Orders Under Task and Delivery Order Contracts. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–007, Accelerated Payments Applicable to Contracts With Certain Small Business Concerns. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–008, Prohibition on Criminal History Inquiries by Contractors Prior to Conditional Offer. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–010, Small Business Innovation Research and Technology Transfer Programs. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–013, Certification of Women-Owned Small Businesses. 360 .................... 361 362 363 364 .................... .................... .................... .................... 365 .................... 366 .................... 367 .................... 368 .................... 369 .................... 370 .................... 371 .................... 372 .................... 373 .................... 374 .................... 375 .................... 376 .................... 377 .................... 9000–AN31 9000–AN43 9000–AN44 9000–AN56 9000–AN62 9000–AN66 9000–AN71 9000–AN72 9000–AN73 9000–AN90 9000–AN91 9000–AN94 9000–AN98 9000–AN99 9000–AO04 9000–AO08 9000–AO10 9000–AO11 9000–AO12 9000–AO17 jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS20 DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR)—FINAL RULE STAGE Regulation Identifier No. Sequence No. Title 378 .................... Federal Acquisition Regulation: FAR Case 2016–005; Effective Communication Between Government and Industry. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017–005, Whistleblower Protection for Contractor Employees. Federal Acquisition Regulation; FAR Case 2016–002, Applicability of Small Business Regulations Outside the United States. 379 .................... 380 .................... VerDate Sep<11>2014 23:20 Mar 30, 2021 Jkt 253001 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\31MRP20.SGM 31MRP20 9000–AN29 9000–AN32 9000–AN34 16979 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 60 / Wednesday, March 31, 2021 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR)—FINAL RULE STAGE—Continued Regulation Identifier No. Sequence No. Title 381 .................... 382 .................... 383 .................... Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2016–011, Revision of Limitations on Subcontracting .... Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017–003; Individual Sureties ......................................... Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017–011, Section 508-Based Standards in Information and Communication Technology. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017–018, Violation of Arms Control Treaties or Agreements With the United States. Federal Regulation Acquisition (FAR); FAR Case 2017–019, Policy on Joint Ventures ................................ Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–016, Lowest Price Technically Acceptable Source Selection Process. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–020, Construction Contract Administration ............ Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–021, Reserve Officer Training Corps and Military Recruiting on Campus. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–023, Taxes-Foreign Contracts in Afghanistan ....... Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–017, Prohibition on Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–001, Analysis for Equipment Acquisitions ............. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–002, Recreational Services on Federal Lands ...... Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–003, Substantial Bundling and Consolidation ........ Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–004, Good Faith in Small Business Subcontracting. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–009, Prohibition on Contracting With Entities Using Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–006, Documentation of Market Research .............. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–011, Implementation of Issued Exclusion and Removal Orders. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–012, Scope of Review by Procurement Center Representatives. 384 .................... 385 .................... 386 .................... 387 .................... 388 .................... 389 .................... 390 .................... 391 392 393 394 .................... .................... .................... .................... 395 .................... 396 .................... 397 .................... 398 .................... 9000–AN35 9000–AN39 9000–AN46 9000–AN57 9000–AN59 9000–AN75 9000–AN78 9000–AN79 9000–AN81 9000–AN83 9000–AN84 9000–AN85 9000–AN86 9000–AN87 9000–AN92 9000–AO09 9000–AO13 9000–AO16 DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR)—COMPLETED ACTIONS Title 399 .................... 400 .................... 401 .................... Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2014–002; Set-Asides Under Multiple Award Contracts Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2016–013, Tax on Certain Foreign Procurement ............ Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR); FAR Case 2015–002, Requirements for DD Form 254, Contract Security Classification Specification. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017–010, Evaluation Factors for Multiple-Award Contracts. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–004; Increased Micro-Purchase and Simplified Acquisition Thresholds. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–005, Modifications to Cost or Pricing Data and Reporting Requirements. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–022; Orders Issued Via Fax or Electronic Commerce. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–013, Inflation Adjustment of Acquisition-Related Thresholds. 402 .................... 403 .................... 404 .................... 405 .................... 406 .................... DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE/ GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION/NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION (FAR) Proposed Rule Stage jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS20 Regulation Identifier No. Sequence No. 358. Far Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2015–038, Reverse Auction Guidance E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement policies addressing the VerDate Sep<11>2014 23:20 Mar 30, 2021 Jkt 253001 effective use of reverse auctions. Reverse auctions involve offerors lowering their pricing over multiple rounds of bidding in order to win Federal contracts. This change incorporates guidance from the Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) memorandum, ‘‘Effective Use of Reverse Auctions,’’ which was issued in response to recommendations from the GAO report, Reverse Auctions: Guidance is Needed to Maximize Competition and Achieve Cost Savings (GAO–14–108). Reverse auctions are one tool used by Federal agencies to increase competition and reduce the cost of certain items. Reverse auctions differ from traditional auctions in that PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 9000–AM93 9000–AN38 9000–AN40 9000–AN54 9000–AN65 9000–AN69 9000–AN80 9000–AN96 sellers compete against one another to provide the lowest price or highestvalue offer to a buyer. This change to the FAR will include guidance that will standardize agencies’ use of reverse auctions to help agencies maximize competition and savings when using reverse auctions. Timetable: Action NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Date 12/07/20 06/00/21 FR Cite 85 FR 78815 I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. E:\FR\FM\31MRP20.SGM 31MRP20 16980 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 60 / Wednesday, March 31, 2021 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover Sr., Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 501–1448, Email: curtis.glover@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN31 359. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017–014, Use of Acquisition 360 To Encourage Vendor Feedback E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to address the solicitation of contractor feedback on both contract formation and contract administration activities. Agencies would consider this feedback, as appropriate, to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their acquisition activities. The rule would create FAR policy to encourage regular feedback in accordance with agency practice (both for contract formation and administration activities) and a standard FAR solicitation provision to support a sustainable model for broadened use of the Acquisition 360 survey to elicit feedback on the pre-award and debriefing processes in a consistent and standardized manner. Agencies would be able to use the solicitation provision to notify interested sources that a procurement is part of the Acquisition 360 survey and encourage stakeholders to voluntarily provide feedback on their experiences of the pre-award process. Timetable: Action Date ANPRM ............... ANPRM Comment Period End. NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ FR Cite 07/23/18 09/21/18 83 FR 34820 09/15/20 11/16/20 85 FR 57177 04/00/21 jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS20 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover Sr., Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 501–1448, Email: curtis.glover@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN43 360. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR CASE 2017–013, Breaches of Personally Identifiable Information E.O. 13771 Designation: Regulatory. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal VerDate Sep<11>2014 23:20 Mar 30, 2021 Jkt 253001 Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to create and implement appropriate contract clauses and regulatory coverage to address contractor requirements for a breach response consistent with the requirements. This FAR change will implement the requirements outlined in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Memorandum, M–17–12, ‘‘Preparing for and Responding to a Breach of Personally Identifiable Information,’’ section V part B. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. FR Cite 01/00/21 03/00/21 I I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Camara Francis, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 550–0935, Email: camara.francis@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN44 361. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR CASE 2017–016, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) E.O. 13771 Designation: Regulatory. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) program of Executive Order 13556 of November 4, 2010. As the executive agent designated to oversee the Governmentwide CUI program, NARA issued implementing regulations in late 2016 designed to address Federal agency policies for designating, safeguarding, disseminating, marking, decontrolling, and disposing of CUI. The NARA rule, which is codified at 32 CFR 2002, affects contractors that handle, possess, use, share, or receive CUI. This FAR rule helps to ensure uniform implementation of the requirements of the CUI program in contracts across Government agencies. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. FR Cite 03/00/21 05/00/21 I I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Camara Francis, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 DC 20405, Phone: 202 550–0935, Email: camara.francis@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN56 362. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR CASE 2018–002, Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance E.O. 13771 Designation: Regulatory. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement Presidential Memorandum, ‘‘The Mexico City Policy,’’ issued on January 13, 2017, in accordance with the Department of State’s implementation plan dated May 9, 2017. This rule would extend requirements of the memorandum and plans to new funding agreements for global health assistance furnished by all Federal departments or agencies. This expanded policy will cover global health assistance to include funding for international health programs, such as those for HIV/AIDS, maternal and child health, malaria, global health security, and certain family planning and reproductive health. Timetable: Action NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ Date 09/14/20 11/13/20 I FR Cite 85 FR 56549 05/00/21 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: FAR Policy, DOD/ GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969– 4075, Email: farpolicy@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN62 363. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR CASE 2018–006; Definition of Subcontract E.O. 13771 Designation: Other. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 820 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2018. Section 820 amends 41 U.S.C. 1906(c)(1) to change the definition of ‘‘subcontract’’ for the procurement of commercial items to exclude agreements entered into by a contractor for the supply of commodities that are intended for use in the performance of multiple contracts with the Federal Government and other parties and are not identifiable to any particular contract. Timetable: E:\FR\FM\31MRP20.SGM 31MRP20 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 60 / Wednesday, March 31, 2021 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. FR Cite 03/00/21 05/00/21 I I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208–4949, Email: michaelo.jackson@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN66 364. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–012, Rights to Federally Funded Inventions and Licensing of Government-Owned Inventions E.O. 13771 Designation: Regulatory. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the FAR to implement the changes to 37 CFR parts 401 and 404, ‘‘Rights to Federally Funded Inventions and Licensing of Government-Owned Inventions,’’ dated May 14, 2018. The changes reduce regulatory burdens on the public, but increase burdens on the Government, provide greater clarity to large businesses by codifying the applicability of Bayh-Dole as directed in Executive Order 12591, and provide greater clarity to all Federal funding recipients by updating regulatory provisions to align with provisions of the Leahy-Smith America Invents Act in terms of definitions and timeframes. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. FR Cite 03/00/21 04/00/21 I I jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS20 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208–4949, Email: michaelo.jackson@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN71 365. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–013, Exemption of Commercial and COTS Item Contracts From Certain Laws and Regulations E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch.137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 839 of the John S. VerDate Sep<11>2014 23:20 Mar 30, 2021 Jkt 253001 McCain National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2019. Paragraph (a) requires the FAR Council to review each past determination made not to exempt contracts and subcontracts for commercial products, commercial services, and commercially available off-the-shelf (COTS) items from certain laws when these contracts would otherwise have been exempt under 41 U.S.C. 1906(d) or 41 U.S.C. 1907(b). The FAR Council or the Administrator for Federal Procurement Policy has to determine whether there still exists specific reason not to provide exemptions from certain laws. If no determination is made to continue to exempt commercial contracts and subcontracts from certain laws, paragraph (a) requires that revisions to the FAR be proposed to reflect exemptions from those laws. Paragraph (b) requires the FAR Council to review the FAR to assess every regulation that requires a specific clause in contracts for commercial products or commercial services, unless the regulation is required by law or Executive Order. Paragraph (b) also requires that revisions to the FAR be proposed to eliminate those regulations unless the FAR Council makes a determination not to eliminate a regulation. Paragraph (c) requires the FAR Council to review the FAR to assess every regulation that requires a prime contractor to include a specific clause in subcontracts for commercially available off-the-shelf items, unless the clause is required by law or Executive Order. Paragraph (c) also requires that revisions to the FAR be proposed to eliminate those regulations unless the FAR Council makes a determination not to eliminate a regulation. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. FR Cite 04/00/21 06/00/21 I I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Mahruba Uddowla, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605–2868, Email: mahruba.uddowla@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN72 366. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–014, Increasing Task-Order Level Competition E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 16981 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 876 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2019, which would provide civilian agencies with an exception to the existing statutory requirement to include price to the Federal Government as an evaluation factor that must be considered in the evaluation of proposals for all contracts. The exception would only apply to IDIQ contracts and to Federal Supply Schedule contracts for services that are priced at an hourly rate. Furthermore, the exception would only apply in those instances where the Government intends to make a contract award to all qualifying offerors, thus affording maximum opportunity for effective competition at the task order level. An offeror would be qualified only if it is a responsible source and submits a proposal that conforms to the requirements of the solicitation, meets any technical requirements, and is otherwise eligible for award. Timetable: Action NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Date FR Cite 05/00/21 07/00/21 I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover Sr., Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 501–1448, Email: curtis.glover@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN73 367. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–007, Update of Historically Underutilized Business Zone Program E.O. 13771 Designation: Other. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement regulatory changes issued in a final rule on November 26, 2019 by the Small Business Administration regarding the Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) Program. The regulatory changes are intended to reduce the regulatory burden associated with the HUBZone Program. Timetable: Action NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. E:\FR\FM\31MRP20.SGM 31MRP20 Date 03/00/21 05/00/21 I FR Cite 16982 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 60 / Wednesday, March 31, 2021 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Malissa Jones, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605–2815, Email: malissa.jones@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN90 368. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–008, Small Business Program Amendments E.O. 13771 Designation: Other. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement regulatory changes proposed by the Small Business Administration regarding small business programs. The proposed regulatory changes include the timing of the determination of size status for multiple-award contracts for which price is not evaluated at the contract level; the grounds for sizestatus protests; and the grounds for socioeconomic status protests. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. FR Cite 03/00/21 05/00/21 I I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Malissa Jones, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605–2815, Email: malissa.jones@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN91 jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS20 369. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–010, Efficient Federal Operations 23:20 Mar 30, 2021 Jkt 253001 Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. FR Cite 01/00/21 03/00/21 I I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Kevin Funk, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 357–5805, Email: kevin.funk@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN94 370. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–015, Improving Consistency Between Procurement & Non-Procurement Procedures on Suspension and Debarment E.O. 13771 Designation: Other. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to bring the FAR and the Non-procurement Common Rule (NCR) procedures on suspension and debarment into closer alignment. The FAR covers procurement matters and the NCR covers other transactions, such as grants, cooperative agreements, contracts of assistance, loans and loan guarantees. The Government uses suspension and debarment procedures to exercise business judgment. These procedures give Federal officials a discretionary means to exclude parties from participation in certain transactions, while affording those parties due process. Timetable: Action E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement Executive Order 13834, ‘‘Efficient Federal Operations.’’ Executive Order 13834 directs Federal agencies to comply with statutory requirements related to energy and environmental performance in a manner that increases efficiency, maximizes performance, eliminates unnecessary use of resources, and protects the environment. This rule promotes the efficient acquisition of sustainable products, services, and construction methods in order to reduce energy and water consumption, reliance on natural resources, and enhance pollution VerDate Sep<11>2014 prevention, within the Federal Government. Timetable: Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. FR Cite 05/00/21 07/00/21 I I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover Sr., Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 501–1448, Email: curtis.glover@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN98 371. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–016, Maximizing Use of American-Made Goods, Products and Materials E.O. 13771 Designation: Fully or Partially Exempt. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement Executive Order (E.O.) 13881, Maximizing Use of AmericanMade Goods, Products, and Materials, which would provide that materials shall be considered to be of foreign origin if: (A) for iron and steel end products, the cost of foreign iron and steel used in such iron and steel end products constitutes 5 percent or more of the cost of all the products used in such iron and steel end products; or (B) for all other end products, the cost of the foreign products used in such end products constitutes 45 percent or more of the cost of all the components. In addition, the E.O. provides that in determining price reasonableness or public interest, the evaluation factors of 20 percent (for other than small businesses), or 30 percent (for small businesses) shall be applied to offers of materials of foreign origin. Timetable: Action NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ Date 09/14/20 11/13/20 I FR Cite 85 FR 56558 01/00/21 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969–7207, Email: zenaida.delgado@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN99 372. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–004, Application of the MPT To Certain Task and Delivery Orders E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the FAR by implementing section 826 of the NDAA for FY 2020 (Pub. L. 116–92) which increases the threshold for requiring fair opportunity on orders under multipleaward contracts from $3,500 to the micro-purchase threshold, unless an exception applies. This change applies the word-based threshold to ensure continued alignment with any future changes to the thresholds. Timetable: Action NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ E:\FR\FM\31MRP20.SGM 31MRP20 Date 10/22/20 12/21/20 I 05/00/21 FR Cite 85 FR 67327 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 60 / Wednesday, March 31, 2021 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208–4949, Email: michaelo.jackson@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AO04 373. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–005, Explanations to Unsuccessful Offerors on Certain Orders Under Task and Delivery Order Contracts E.O. 13771 Designation: Other. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 874 of the NDAA for FY 2020, which requires, when awarding a task or delivery order in an amount greater than the simplified acquisition threshold, but not greater than $5.5 million, contracting officers, upon written request from an unsuccessful offeror, to provide a brief explanation as to why the offeror was unsuccessful, including the rationale for award and an evaluation of the significant weak or deficient factors in the offeror’s offer. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. FR Cite 04/00/21 06/00/21 I I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Dana L. Bowman, Procurement Analyst, General Services Administration, 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 357– 9652, Email: dana.bowman@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AO08 jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS20 374. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–007, Accelerated Payments Applicable to Contracts With Certain Small Business Concerns E.O. 13771 Designation: Other. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to establish an accelerated payment date for small business contractors, to the fullest extent permitted by law, with a goal of 15 days after receipt of a proper invoice, if a specific payment date is not established by contract. For contractors that subcontract with small businesses, the proposed rule, to the fullest extent permitted by law, establishes an VerDate Sep<11>2014 23:20 Mar 30, 2021 Jkt 253001 accelerated payment date, with a goal of 15 days after receipt of a proper invoice, if: (1) A specific payment date is not established by contract, and (2) the contractor agrees to make accelerated payments to the subcontractor without any further consideration from, or fees charged to, the subcontractor. This change implements section 873 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Pub. L. 116–92). Section 873 amends 31 U.S.C. 3903(a). Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. FR Cite 01/00/21 03/00/21 I I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969–7207, Email: zenaida.delgado@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AO10 375. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–008, Prohibition on Criminal History Inquiries by Contractors Prior to Conditional Offer E.O. 13771 Designation: Other. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 1123 of the NDAA for FY 2020 (Pub. L. 116–92) for the prohibition on criminal history inquiries by contractors prior to conditional offer to an individual or sole proprietor. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. FR Cite 05/00/21 07/00/21 I I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover Sr., Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 501–1448, Email: curtis.glover@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AO11 376. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–010, Small Business Innovation Research and Technology Transfer Programs E.O. 13771 Designation: Other. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 16983 Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement changes to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Policy Directive issued (May 2, 2019). The proposed changes include updating FAR 27 to add reference to the STTR program, revise: definitions, allocation of rights, protection period, SBIR/STTR rights notice, data rights marking provisions, and add language to FAR 6.302–5(b) to acknowledge the unique competition requirements for SBIR/STTR Phase III contracts permitted by the Small Business Act. Timetable: Action NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Date FR Cite 04/00/21 06/00/21 I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Mahruba Uddowla, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605–2868, Email: mahruba.uddowla@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AO12 377. • Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR CASE 2020–013, Certification of Women-Owned Small Businesses E.O. 13771 Designation: Other. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: The purpose of this new FAR case is to implement the statutory requirement for certification of womenowned and economically disadvantaged women-owned small businesses participating in the Women-Owned Small Business Program (section 825 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015), as implemented by the Small Business Administration in its final rule published May 11, 2020. Timetable: Action NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Date FR Cite 05/00/21 07/00/21 I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Malissa Jones, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605–2815, Email: malissa.jones@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AO17 E:\FR\FM\31MRP20.SGM 31MRP20 16984 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 60 / Wednesday, March 31, 2021 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE/ GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION/NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION (FAR) Final Rule Stage 378. Federal Acquisition Regulation: FAR Case 2016–005; Effective Communication Between Government and Industry E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule amending the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 887 of the NDAA for FY 2016 (Pub. L. 114–92). This law provides that Government acquisition personnel are permitted and encouraged to engage in responsible and constructive exchanges with industry. This change will permit and encourage Government acquisition personnel to engage in responsible and constructive exchanges with industry as part of market research as long as those exchanges are consistent with existing laws and regulations and promote a fair competitive environment. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ FR Cite 11/29/16 03/02/17 I 01/00/21 81 FR 85914 I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208–4949, Email: michaelo.jackson@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN29 jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS20 379. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017–005, Whistleblower Protection for Contractor Employees E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement 41 U.S.C. 4712, ‘‘Enhancement of Contractor Protection From Reprisal for Disclosure of Certain Information,’’ and makes the pilot program permanent. The pilot was enacted on January 2, 2013, by section 828 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal VerDate Sep<11>2014 23:20 Mar 30, 2021 Jkt 253001 year (FY) 2013. The rule clarifies that contractors and subcontractors are prohibited from discharging, demoting, or otherwise discriminating against an employee as a reprisal for disclosing to any of the entities such as agency Inspector Generals and Congress information that the employee reasonably believes is evidence of gross mismanagement of a Federal contract; a gross waste of Federal funds; an abuse of authority relating to a Federal contract; a substantial and specific danger to public health or safety; or a violation of law, rule, or regulation related to a Federal contract (including the competition for or negotiation of a contract.) This rule enhances whistleblower protections for contractor employees by making permanent the protection for disclosure of the aforementioned information, and ensuring that the prohibition on reimbursement for legal fees accrued in defense against reprisal claims applies to both contractors and subcontractors. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ FR Cite 12/26/18 02/25/19 I 03/00/21 83 FR 66223 I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover Sr., Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 501–1448, Email: curtis.glover@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN32 380. Federal Acquisition Regulation; FAR Case 2016–002, Applicability of Small Business Regulations Outside the United States E.O. 13771 Designation: Fully or Partially Exempt. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to support SBA’s policy of including overseas contracts in agency small business contracting goals. SBA revised its regulation at 13 CFR 125.2, as finalized in its rule ‘‘Acquisition Process: Task and Delivery Order Contracts, Bundling, Consolidation’’ issued on October 2, 2013, to clarify that overseas contracting is not excluded from agency responsibilities to foster small business participation. In its final rule, SBA has clarified that, as a general matter, its small business contracting regulations apply PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 regardless of the place of performance. In light of these changes, there is a need to amend the FAR, both to support the changes to SBA’s regulation, and to give agencies the tools they need, especially the ability to use set-asides to maximize opportunities for small businesses overseas. Timetable: Action NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ Date 08/12/19 10/11/19 I FR Cite 84 FR 39793 01/00/21 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Mahruba Uddowla, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605–2868, Email: mahruba.uddowla@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN34 381. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2016–011, Revision of Limitations on Subcontracting E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to revise and standardize the limitations on subcontracting, including the nonmanufacturer rule, that apply to small business concerns under FAR part 19 procurements. This rule incorporates the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) final rule that implemented the statutory requirements of section 1651 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2013. This action is necessary to meet the Congressional intent of clarifying the limitations on subcontracting with which small businesses must comply, as well as the ways in which they can comply. The rule will benefit both small businesses and Federal agencies. The rule will allow small businesses to take advantage of subcontracts with similarly situated entities. As a result, these small businesses will be able to compete for larger contracts, which would positively affect their potential for growth as well as that of their potential subcontractors. Timetable: Action NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ Date 12/04/18 02/04/19 I FR Cite 83 FR 62540 01/00/21 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. E:\FR\FM\31MRP20.SGM 31MRP20 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 60 / Wednesday, March 31, 2021 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda Agency Contact: Mahruba Uddowla, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605–2868, Email: mahruba.uddowla@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN35 FAR to ensure that the updated accessibility standards are appropriately considered in Federal ICT acquisitions. Timetable: 382. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017–003; Individual Sureties E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to change the kinds of assets that individual sureties must use as security for their individual surety bonds. This change implements section 874 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2016 (Pub. L. 114–92), codified at 31 U.S.C. 9310, Individual Sureties. Individual sureties will no longer be able to pledge real property, corporate stocks, corporate bonds, or irrevocable letters of credit. The requirements of 31 U.S.C. 9310 are intended to strengthen the assets pledged by individual sureties, thereby mitigating risk to the Government. Timetable: NPRM .................. Correction ............ NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ FR Cite 02/12/20 04/13/20 I 01/00/21 85 FR 7910 I jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS20 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969–7207, Email: zenaida.delgado@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN39 383. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017–011, Section 508-Based Standards in Information and Communication Technology E.O. 13771 Designation: Regulatory. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to incorporate recent revisions and updates to accessibility standards issued by the U.S. Access Board pursuant to section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This FAR change incorporates the U.S. Access Board’s final rule, ‘‘Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Standards and Guidelines,’’ which published on January 18, 2017. This rule updates the VerDate Sep<11>2014 23:20 Mar 30, 2021 Jkt 253001 Action Date 03/31/20 04/16/20 06/01/20 FR Cite 85 FR 17831 85 FR 21139 01/00/21 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Camara Francis, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 550–0935, Email: camara.francis@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN46 384. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017–018, Violation of Arms Control Treaties or Agreements With the United States E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 1290(c)(3) of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2017, which requires an offeror or any of its subsidiaries to certify that it does not engage in any activity that contributed to or is a significant factor in the determination that a country is not in full compliance with its obligations undertaken in all arms control, nonproliferation, and disarmament agreements or commitments in which the United States is a participating state. Timetable: Action Date Interim Final Rule Interim Final Rule Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ 06/15/18 08/14/18 FR Cite 83 FR 28145 11/00/20 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208–4949, Email: michaelo.jackson@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN57 385. Federal Regulation Acquisition (FAR); FAR Case 2017–019, Policy on Joint Ventures E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 16985 Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement regulatory changes made by the Small Business Administration (SBA), Small Business Mentor Prote´ge´ Programs, published on July 25, 2016 (81 FR 48557), regarding joint ventures and to clarify policy on 8(a) joint ventures. The regulatory changes provide industry with a new way to compete for small business or socioeconomic set-asides using a joint venture made up of a mentor and a prote´ge´. The 8(a) joint venture clarification prevents confusion on an 8(a) joint venture’s eligibility to compete for an 8(a) competitive procurement. Timetable: Action NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ Date 06/05/20 08/04/20 I FR Cite 85 FR 34561 06/00/21 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Malissa Jones, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605–2815, Email: malissa.jones@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN59 386. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–016, Lowest Price Technically Acceptable Source Selection Process E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 880 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 to avoid using lowest price technically acceptable source selection criteria in circumstances that would deny the Government the benefits of cost and technical tradeoffs in the source selection process. Timetable: Action NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ Date 10/02/19 12/02/19 I FR Cite 84 FR 52425 11/00/20 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA E:\FR\FM\31MRP20.SGM 31MRP20 16986 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 60 / Wednesday, March 31, 2021 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208–4949, Email: michaelo.jackson@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN75 387. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–020, Construction Contract Administration E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 855 of the NDAA for FY 2019 (Pub. L. 115–232). Section 855 requires, for solicitations for construction contracts anticipated to be awarded to a small business, notification to prospective offerors regarding agency policies or practices in complying with FAR requirements relating to the timely definitization of requests for equitable adjustment and agency past performance in definitizing such requests. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ FR Cite 04/01/20 06/01/20 I 04/00/21 85 FR 18181 I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Dana L. Bowman, Procurement Analyst, General Services Administration, 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 357– 9652, Email: dana.bowman@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN78 jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS20 388. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–021, Reserve Officer Training Corps and Military Recruiting on Campus E.O. 13771 Designation: Fully or Partially Exempt. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement the requirements at 10 U.S.C. 983, which prohibits the award of certain Federal contracts or grants to institutions of higher education that prohibit Senior Reserve Officer Training Corps units or military recruiting on campus. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. VerDate Sep<11>2014 I 09/24/19 11/25/19 23:20 Mar 30, 2021 FR Cite 84 FR 49974 I Jkt 253001 Action Date Final Rule ............ Final Rule Effective. FR Cite 10/23/20 11/23/20 I 85 FR 67619 I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969–7207, Email: zenaida.delgado@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN79 389. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); Far Case 2018–023, TaxesForeign Contracts in Afghanistan E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement the provisions on taxes, duties, and fees contained in the Security and Defense Cooperation Agreement (dated 2014) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Status of Forces Agreement (dated 2014) with the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Both Agreements exempt the United States Government, and its contractors and subcontractors (other than those who are Afghan legal entities or residents), from paying any tax or similar charge assessed on activities associated with contracts performed within Afghanistan. The Agreements also exempt the acquisition, importation, exportation, reexportation, transportation, and use of supplies and services in Afghanistan, by or on behalf of the United States Government, from any taxes, customs, duties, fees, or similar charges in Afghanistan. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. Correction ............ NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ Final Rule Effective. FR Cite 09/20/19 10/15/19 11/19/19 84 FR 49502 84 FR 55109 10/23/20 11/23/20 85 FR 67623 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Kevin Funk, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 357–5805, Email: kevin.funk@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN81 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 390. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–017, Prohibition on Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment E.O. 13771 Designation: Fully or Partially Exempt. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA amended the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 889 (a)(1)(A) of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 19 (Pub. L. 115–232). Section 889(a)(1)(A) prohibits the Government from procuring covered telecommunications equipment and services from Huawei Technologies Company, ZTE Corporation, Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Technology Company, or Dahua Technology Company, to include any subsidiaries or affiliates. Provisions have been added to the FAR which require that an offeror represent at an entity level in SAM, and if applicable on an offer-by-offer basis, if the offeror will or will not provide any covered telecommunications equipment or services to the Government. If an offeror responds in an offer that it will provide covered telecommunications, the offeror will need to provide additional disclosures. This FAR rule is needed to protect U.S. networks against cyber activities conducted through Chinese Government-supported telecommunications equipment and services. Timetable: Action Interim Final Rule Interim Final Rule Comment Period End. Interim Final Rule Interim Final Rule Effective. Interim Final Rule Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ Date FR Cite 08/13/19 10/15/19 84 FR 40216 12/13/19 12/13/19 84 FR 68314 02/11/20 03/00/21 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: FAR Policy, DOD/ GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969– 4075, Email: farpolicy@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN83 391. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–001, Analysis for Equipment Acquisitions E.O. 13771 Designation: Other. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 E:\FR\FM\31MRP20.SGM 31MRP20 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 60 / Wednesday, March 31, 2021 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the FAR by implementing section 555 of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act for FY 2018 (Pub. L. 115–254), which requires equipment to be acquired using the method of acquisition most advantageous to the Government based on a case-by-case analysis of costs and other factors. Section 555 requires the methods of acquisition to be compared in the analysis to include, at a minimum: (1) Purchase; (2) long-term lease or rental; (3) short-term lease or rental; (4) interagency acquisition; or, (5) acquisition agreements with a State or local government. Section 555 exempts certain acquisitions from this required analysis. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ FR Cite 08/24/20 10/23/20 I 04/00/21 85 FR 52081 I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208–4949, Email: michaelo.jackson@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN84 jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS20 392. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–002, Recreational Services on Federal Lands E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to exempt contracts for seasonal recreational services and seasonal recreational equipment rental on Federal lands from the Executive Order 13658 minimum wage requirements. This rule implements Executive Order 13838 that was issued on May 25, 2018, and associated Department of Labor final rule published on September 26, 2018. In accordance with Executive Order 13838, this rule will not limit Executive Order 13658’s coverage of lodging and food services associated with seasonal recreational services, even when seasonal recreational services or seasonal recreational equipment rental are also provided under the same contract. Timetable: VerDate Sep<11>2014 23:20 Mar 30, 2021 Jkt 253001 Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ Final Rule Effective. FR Cite 10/21/19 12/20/19 84 FR 56157 10/23/20 11/23/20 85 FR 67626 393. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–003, Substantial Bundling and Consolidation E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are amending the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 863 of the National Defense Authorization Acts (NDAA) for FY 2016 and the Small Business Administration (SBA) implementing regulations requiring publication of a notice of substantial bundling and a notice of consolidation of contract requirements. Timetable: Action Date NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ FR Cite 04/27/20 06/26/20 I 04/00/21 85 FR 23299 I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Dana Bowman, Procurement Analyst, DoD/GSA/NASA (FAR), DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208–4949, Email: dana.bowman@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN86 394. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–004, Good Faith in Small Business Subcontracting E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 1821 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2017 and the Small Business Administration regulatory changes relating to small business subcontracting plans. Section 1821 PO 00000 Frm 00011 requires examples of activities that would be considered a failure to make a good faith effort to comply with small business subcontracting plan requirements. Timetable: Action Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Kevin Funk, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 357–5805, Email: kevin.funk@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN85 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 16987 NPRM .................. NPRM Comment Period End. Final Rule ............ Date 06/03/20 08/03/20 I FR Cite 85 FR 34155 05/00/21 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Dana L. Bowman, Procurement Analyst, General Services Administration, 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 357– 9652, Email: dana.bowman@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN87 395. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–009, Prohibition on Contracting With Entities Using Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment E.O. 13771 Designation: Other. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are amending the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement paragraph (a)(1)(B) of section 889 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 19 (Pub. L. 115–232). Beginning two years from the enacted date, paragraph (a)(1)(B) of section 889 prohibits the Government from entering into a contract or extending or renewing a contract with an entity that uses any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment and services from Huawei Technologies Company, ZTE Corporation, Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Technology Company, or Dahua Technology Company, to include any subsidiaries or affiliates. This FAR rule is needed to protect U.S. networks against cyber activities conducted through Chinese Government-supported telecommunications equipment and services. Paragraph (a)(1)(A) of section 889 is being implemented separately through FAR Case 2018–017. Timetable: Action Interim Final Rule Interim Final Rule Effective. Interim Final Rule Interim Final Rule Comment Period End. Interim Final Rule Comment Period End. E:\FR\FM\31MRP20.SGM 31MRP20 Date FR Cite 07/14/20 08/13/20 85 FR 42665 08/27/20 09/14/20 85 FR 53126 10/26/20 16988 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 60 / Wednesday, March 31, 2021 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda Action Date Interim Final Rule Effective. Final Rule ............ FR Cite 10/26/20 I 05/00/21 I Action Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: FAR Policy, DOD/ GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969– 4075, Email: farpolicy@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN92 396. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–006, Documentation of Market Research E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA opened this case to implement section 818 of the NDAA for FY 2020. Section 818 amends 10 U.S.C. 2377(c) and 41 U.S.C. 3307(d) to require the head of the agency document the results of market research in a manner appropriate to the size and complexity of the acquisition. Timetable: Action Date Final Rule ............ Final Rule Effective. FR Cite 10/23/20 11/23/20 I 85 FR 67623 I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Camara Francis, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 550–0935, Email: camara.francis@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AO09 jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS20 397. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–011, Implementation of Issued Exclusion and Removal Orders E.O. 13771 Designation: Other. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: This rule will amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to address implementation of issued exclusion and removal orders authorized by section 202 of the SECURE Technology Act (115 Pub. L. 390), which amends 41 U.S.C. 1323 by creating the Federal Acquisition Security Council (FASC) and authorizing the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Secretary of Defense, and the Director of National Intelligence to issue exclusion and removal orders, upon the recommendation of the FASC. These orders are issued to protect national security by excluding certain VerDate Sep<11>2014 23:20 Mar 30, 2021 covered products, services, or sources from the Federal supply chain. Timetable: Jkt 253001 Date Interim Final Rule Interim Final Rule Comment Period End. FR Cite Completed Actions 01/00/21 03/00/21 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Camara Francis, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 550–0935, Email: camara.francis@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AO13 398. • Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020–012, Scope of Review by Procurement Center Representatives E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: The purpose of this new FAR case is to implement section 1811 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (15 U.S.C. 644(l)(9)(A)), as implemented by the Small Business Administration’s final rule published November 29, 2019 (84 FR 65647). 15 U.S.C. 644(l)(9)(A) allows procurement center representatives to review solicitations without regard to whether the contract or order is set aside for small business, or reserved in the case of a multiple-award contract, or whether the solicitation would result in a bundled or consolidated contract or order. Timetable: Action Date Direct Final Rule Direct Final Rule Comment Period End. FR Cite 04/00/21 06/00/21 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Malissa Jones, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605–2815, Email: malissa.jones@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AO16 PO 00000 DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE/ GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION/NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION (FAR) 399. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2014–002; Set–Asides Under Multiple Award Contracts E.O. 13771 Designation: Fully or Partially Exempt. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule amending the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement regulatory changes made by the Small Business Administration, which provide Governmentwide policy for partial set-asides and reserves and for set-asides of orders for small business concerns under multipleaward contracts. Completed: Reason Date Final Rule Effective. FR Cite 03/30/20 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Mahruba Uddowla, Phone: 703 605–2868, Email: mahruba.uddowla@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AM93 400. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2016–013, Tax on Certain Foreign Procurement E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 37; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement a final rule issued by the Department of the Treasury that implements section 301 of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010, Public Law 111–347. This section imposes on any foreign person that receives a specified Federal procurement payment a tax equal to two percent of the amount of such payment. This rule applies to foreign persons that are awarded Federal Government contracts to provide goods or services. completed: Reason Final Rule ............ Final Rule Effective. Date 05/06/20 06/05/20 FR Cite 85 FR 27098 I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Frm 00012 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\31MRP20.SGM 31MRP20 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 60 / Wednesday, March 31, 2021 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Phone: 202 969–7207, Email: zenaida.delgado@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN38 401. Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR); FAR Case 2015–002, Requirements for DD Form 254, Contract Security Classification Specification E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to require the use of Department of Defense (DoD) Wide Area Workflow (WAWF) for the electronic submission of the DD Form 254, ‘‘Contract Security Classification Specification.’’ This form is used to convey security requirements regarding classified information to contractors and subcontractors and must be submitted to the Defense Security Services (DSS) when contractors or subcontractors require access to classified information under contracts awarded by agencies that are covered by the National Industrial Security Program (NISP). By changing the submittal process of the form from a manual process to an automated one, the Government will reduce the cost of maintaining the forms, while also providing a centralized repository for classified contract security requirements and supporting data. Completed: Reason Date Final Rule ............ Final Rule Effective. FR Cite 07/02/20 08/03/20 I 85 FR 40061 I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover, Phone: 202 501–1448, Email: curtis.glover@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN40 jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS20 402. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017–010, Evaluation Factors for Multiple-Award Contracts E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 825 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 17 (Pub. L. 114–328). Section 825 amends 10 U.S.C. 2305(a)(3) to change the requirement regarding the consideration of cost or price to the VerDate Sep<11>2014 23:20 Mar 30, 2021 Jkt 253001 Government as a factor in the evaluation of proposals for certain multiple-award task order contracts awarded by DoD, NASA, or the Coast Guard. At the Government’s discretion, solicitations for multiple-award contracts, which intend to award the same or similar services to each qualifying offeror, do not require price or cost as an evaluation factor for the base contract award. This rule will streamline the award of contracts for DoD, NASA, and the Coast Guard because they will not be required to consider cost or price in the evaluation of the award decision. Relieving the requirement to account for cost or price when evaluating proposals for these types of contracts, which feature competitive orders, will enable procurement officials to focus their energy on establishing and evaluating the non-price factors that will result in more meaningful distinctions among offerors. Completed: Reason Date Final Rule ............ Final Rule Effective. FR Cite 07/02/20 08/03/20 I 85 FR 40068 I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Phone: 202 208–4949, Email: michaelo.jackson@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN54 403. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–004; Increased Micro-Purchase and Simplified Acquisition Thresholds E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the FAR to implement sections 805, 806, and 1702(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2018. Section 805 increases the micropurchase threshold (MPT) to $10,000 and limits the use of convenience checks to not more than one half of the MPT amount (i.e., $5,000). Section 806 increases the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT) to $250,000. Section 1702(a) amends section 15(j)(1) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 644(j)(1)) to replace specific dollar thresholds with the terms ‘‘micro-purchase threshold’’ and ‘‘simplified acquisition threshold.’’ Completed: Reason Date Final Rule ............ PO 00000 Frm 00013 07/02/20 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 4702 FR Cite 85 FR 40064 Reason Final Rule Effective. Date 16989 FR Cite 08/31/20 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Phone: 202 208–4949, Email: michaelo.jackson@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN65 404. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–005, Modifications to Cost or Pricing Data and Reporting Requirements E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to increase the Truth in Negotiation Act (TINA) threshold to $2 million and require other than certified cost or pricing data. The rule reduces the burden on contractors because they would not be required to certify their cost or pricing data between $750,000 and $2 million. This change implements section 811 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2018. Section 811 modifies 10 U.S.C. 2306a and 41 U.S.C. 3502. Completed: Reason Final Rule ............ Final Rule Effective. Correction ............ Final Rule Effective. Date FR Cite 07/02/20 08/03/20 85 FR 40071 08/28/20 08/28/20 85 FR 53247 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Phone: 202 969–7207, Email: zenaida.delgado@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN69 405. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018–022; Orders Issued Via Fax or Electronic Commerce E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant. Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule amending a Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clause to permit the issuance of task or delivery orders via facsimile or electronic commerce and clarify when an order is considered ‘’issued’’ when using these methods. Completed: E:\FR\FM\31MRP20.SGM 31MRP20 16990 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 60 / Wednesday, March 31, 2021 / UA: Reg Flex Agenda Reason Date Final Rule ............ Final Rule Effective. FR Cite 07/02/20 08/03/20 I 85 FR 40075 I Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover, Phone: 202 501–1448, Email: curtis.glover@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN80 jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS20 406. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019–013, Inflation Adjustment of Acquisition-Related Thresholds E.O. 13771 Designation: Other. VerDate Sep<11>2014 23:20 Mar 30, 2021 Jkt 253001 Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c) ; 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113 Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement the inflation adjustment of acquisition-related dollar thresholds. A statute (41 U.S.C. 1908) requires an adjustment every 5 years of acquisitionrelated thresholds for inflation using the Consumer Price Index for all urban consumers, except for the Construction Wage Rate Requirements statute (formerly Davis-Bacon Act), Service Contract Labor Standards statute, and trade agreements thresholds. Completed: PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4701 Sfmt 9990 Reason NPRM .................. Final Rule ............ Final Rule Effective. Date 06/30/20 10/02/20 10/01/20 FR Cite 85 FR 39146 85 FR 62485 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Phone: 202 208–4949, Email: michaelo.jackson@gsa.gov. RIN: 9000–AN96 [FR Doc. 2021–04359 Filed 3–30–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6820–EP–P E:\FR\FM\31MRP20.SGM 31MRP20

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 60 (Wednesday, March 31, 2021)]
[Unknown Section]
[Pages 16978-16990]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-04359]



[[Page 16977]]

Vol. 86

Wednesday,

No. 60

March 31, 2021

Part XX





Department of Defense





General Services Administration





National Aeronautics and Space Administration





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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

Federal Register / Vol. 86 , No. 60 / Wednesday, March 31, 2021 / UA: 
Reg Flex Agenda

[[Page 16978]]


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DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

48 CFR Chapter 1


Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

AGENCY: Department of Defense (DoD), General Services Administration 
(GSA), and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This agenda provides summary descriptions of regulations being 
developed by the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense 
Acquisition Regulations Council in compliance with Executive Order 
12866 ``Regulatory Planning and Review.'' This agenda is being 
published to allow interested persons an opportunity to participate in 
the rulemaking process. The Regulatory Secretariat Division has 
attempted to list all regulations pending at the time of publication, 
except for minor and routine or repetitive actions; however, 
unanticipated requirements may result in the issuance of regulations 
that are not included in this agenda. There is no legal significance to 
the omission of an item from this listing. Also, the dates shown for 
the steps of each action are estimated and are not commitments to act 
on or by the dates shown.
    Published proposed rules may be reviewed in their entirety at the 
Government's rulemaking website at https://www.regulations.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lois Mandell, Division Director, 
Regulatory Secretariat Division, 1800 F Street NW, 2nd Floor, 
Washington, DC 20405-0001, 202-501-4755.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: DoD, GSA, and NASA, under their several 
statutory authorities, jointly issue and maintain the FAR through 
periodic issuance of changes published in the Federal Register and 
produced electronically as Federal Acquisition Circulars (FACs).
    The electronic version of the FAR, including changes, can be 
accessed on the FAR website at https://www.acquisition.gov/far.

    Dated: September 4, 2020.
William F. Clark,
Director, Office of Government-wide Acquisition Policy, Office of 
Acquisition Policy, Office of Government-wide Policy.

                 DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR)--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
358.......................  FAR Acquisition Regulation         9000-AN31
                             (FAR); FAR Case 2015-038,
                             Reverse Auction Guidance.
359.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN43
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-014, Use of
                             Acquisition 360 to
                             Encourage Vendor Feedback.
360.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN44
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-013, Breaches
                             of Personally
                             Identifiable Information.
361.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN56
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-016, Controlled
                             Unclassified Information
                             (CUI).
362.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN62
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-002, Protecting
                             Life in Global Health
                             Assistance.
363.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN66
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-006; Definition
                             of Subcontract.
364.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN71
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-012, Rights to
                             Federally Funded
                             Inventions and Licensing
                             of Government-Owned
                             Inventions.
365.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN72
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-013, Exemption
                             of Commercial and COTS
                             Item Contracts From
                             Certain Laws and
                             Regulations.
366.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN73
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-014, Increasing
                             Task-Order Level
                             Competition.
367.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN90
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-007, Update of
                             Historically
                             Underutilized Business
                             Zone Program.
368.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN91
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-008, Small
                             Business Program
                             Amendments.
369.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN94
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-010, Efficient
                             Federal Operations.
370.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN98
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-015, Improving
                             Consistency Between
                             Procurement & Non-
                             Procurement Procedures on
                             Suspension and Debarment.
371.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN99
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-016, Maximizing
                             Use of American-Made
                             Goods, Products and
                             Materials.
372.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO04
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-004,
                             Application of the MPT to
                             Certain Task and Delivery
                             Orders.
373.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO08
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-005,
                             Explanations to
                             Unsuccessful Offerors on
                             Certain Orders Under Task
                             and Delivery Order
                             Contracts.
374.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO10
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-007,
                             Accelerated Payments
                             Applicable to Contracts
                             With Certain Small
                             Business Concerns.
375.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO11
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-008,
                             Prohibition on Criminal
                             History Inquiries by
                             Contractors Prior to
                             Conditional Offer.
376.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO12
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-010, Small
                             Business Innovation
                             Research and Technology
                             Transfer Programs.
377.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO17
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-013,
                             Certification of Women-
                             Owned Small Businesses.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


                  DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR)--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
378.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN29
                             Regulation: FAR Case 2016-
                             005; Effective
                             Communication Between
                             Government and Industry.
379.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN32
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-005,
                             Whistleblower Protection
                             for Contractor Employees.
380.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN34
                             Regulation; FAR Case 2016-
                             002, Applicability of
                             Small Business
                             Regulations Outside the
                             United States.

[[Page 16979]]

 
381.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN35
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2016-011, Revision
                             of Limitations on
                             Subcontracting.
382.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN39
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-003; Individual
                             Sureties.
383.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN46
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-011, Section
                             508-Based Standards in
                             Information and
                             Communication Technology.
384.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN57
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-018, Violation
                             of Arms Control Treaties
                             or Agreements With the
                             United States.
385.......................  Federal Regulation                 9000-AN59
                             Acquisition (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-019, Policy on
                             Joint Ventures.
386.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN75
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-016, Lowest
                             Price Technically
                             Acceptable Source
                             Selection Process.
387.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN78
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-020,
                             Construction Contract
                             Administration.
388.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN79
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-021, Reserve
                             Officer Training Corps
                             and Military Recruiting
                             on Campus.
389.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN81
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-023, Taxes-
                             Foreign Contracts in
                             Afghanistan.
390.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN83
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-017,
                             Prohibition on Certain
                             Telecommunications and
                             Video Surveillance
                             Services or Equipment.
391.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN84
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-001, Analysis
                             for Equipment
                             Acquisitions.
392.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN85
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-002,
                             Recreational Services on
                             Federal Lands.
393.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN86
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-003,
                             Substantial Bundling and
                             Consolidation.
394.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN87
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-004, Good Faith
                             in Small Business
                             Subcontracting.
395.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN92
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-009,
                             Prohibition on
                             Contracting With Entities
                             Using Certain
                             Telecommunications and
                             Video Surveillance
                             Services or Equipment.
396.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO09
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-006,
                             Documentation of Market
                             Research.
397.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO13
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-011,
                             Implementation of Issued
                             Exclusion and Removal
                             Orders.
398.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO16
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-012, Scope of
                             Review by Procurement
                             Center Representatives.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


                  DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR)--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
399.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AM93
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2014-002; Set-Asides
                             Under Multiple Award
                             Contracts.
400.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN38
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2016-013, Tax on
                             Certain Foreign
                             Procurement.
401.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN40
                             Regulations (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2015-002,
                             Requirements for DD Form
                             254, Contract Security
                             Classification
                             Specification.
402.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN54
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-010, Evaluation
                             Factors for Multiple-
                             Award Contracts.
403.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN65
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-004; Increased
                             Micro-Purchase and
                             Simplified Acquisition
                             Thresholds.
404.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN69
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-005,
                             Modifications to Cost or
                             Pricing Data and
                             Reporting Requirements.
405.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN80
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-022; Orders
                             Issued Via Fax or
                             Electronic Commerce.
406.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN96
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-013, Inflation
                             Adjustment of Acquisition-
                             Related Thresholds.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE/GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION/NATIONAL 
AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION (FAR)

Proposed Rule Stage

358. Far Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2015-038, Reverse 
Auction Guidance

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement policies addressing the 
effective use of reverse auctions. Reverse auctions involve offerors 
lowering their pricing over multiple rounds of bidding in order to win 
Federal contracts. This change incorporates guidance from the Office of 
Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) memorandum, ``Effective Use of 
Reverse Auctions,'' which was issued in response to recommendations 
from the GAO report, Reverse Auctions: Guidance is Needed to Maximize 
Competition and Achieve Cost Savings (GAO-14-108). Reverse auctions are 
one tool used by Federal agencies to increase competition and reduce 
the cost of certain items. Reverse auctions differ from traditional 
auctions in that sellers compete against one another to provide the 
lowest price or highest-value offer to a buyer. This change to the FAR 
will include guidance that will standardize agencies' use of reverse 
auctions to help agencies maximize competition and savings when using 
reverse auctions.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/07/20  85 FR 78815
NPRM Comment Period End.............   06/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.

[[Page 16980]]

    Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover Sr., Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 501-
1448, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN31

359. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017-014, Use of 
Acquisition 360 To Encourage Vendor Feedback

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to address the solicitation of contractor 
feedback on both contract formation and contract administration 
activities. Agencies would consider this feedback, as appropriate, to 
improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their acquisition 
activities. The rule would create FAR policy to encourage regular 
feedback in accordance with agency practice (both for contract 
formation and administration activities) and a standard FAR 
solicitation provision to support a sustainable model for broadened use 
of the Acquisition 360 survey to elicit feedback on the pre-award and 
debriefing processes in a consistent and standardized manner. Agencies 
would be able to use the solicitation provision to notify interested 
sources that a procurement is part of the Acquisition 360 survey and 
encourage stakeholders to voluntarily provide feedback on their 
experiences of the pre-award process.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM...............................   07/23/18  83 FR 34820
ANPRM Comment Period End............   09/21/18  .......................
NPRM................................   09/15/20  85 FR 57177
NPRM Comment Period End.............   11/16/20  .......................
Final Rule..........................   04/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover Sr., Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 501-
1448, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN43

360. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR CASE 2017-013, Breaches 
of Personally Identifiable Information

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Regulatory.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to create and implement appropriate 
contract clauses and regulatory coverage to address contractor 
requirements for a breach response consistent with the requirements. 
This FAR change will implement the requirements outlined in the Office 
of Management and Budget (OMB) Memorandum, M-17-12, ``Preparing for and 
Responding to a Breach of Personally Identifiable Information,'' 
section V part B.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   01/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   03/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Camara Francis, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 550-0935, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN44

361. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR CASE 2017-016, 
Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Regulatory.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA) Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) 
program of Executive Order 13556 of November 4, 2010. As the executive 
agent designated to oversee the Governmentwide CUI program, NARA issued 
implementing regulations in late 2016 designed to address Federal 
agency policies for designating, safeguarding, disseminating, marking, 
decontrolling, and disposing of CUI. The NARA rule, which is codified 
at 32 CFR 2002, affects contractors that handle, possess, use, share, 
or receive CUI. This FAR rule helps to ensure uniform implementation of 
the requirements of the CUI program in contracts across Government 
agencies.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   03/00/21
NPRM Comment Period End.............   05/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Camara Francis, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 550-0935, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN56

362. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR CASE 2018-002, 
Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Regulatory.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement Presidential Memorandum, 
``The Mexico City Policy,'' issued on January 13, 2017, in accordance 
with the Department of State's implementation plan dated May 9, 2017. 
This rule would extend requirements of the memorandum and plans to new 
funding agreements for global health assistance furnished by all 
Federal departments or agencies. This expanded policy will cover global 
health assistance to include funding for international health programs, 
such as those for HIV/AIDS, maternal and child health, malaria, global 
health security, and certain family planning and reproductive health.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   09/14/20  85 FR 56549
NPRM Comment Period End.............   11/13/20
Final Rule..........................   05/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: FAR Policy, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, 
Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969-4075, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN62

363. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR CASE 2018-006; 
Definition of Subcontract

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Other.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 820 of the National 
Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2018. Section 820 amends 41 
U.S.C. 1906(c)(1) to change the definition of ``subcontract'' for the 
procurement of commercial items to exclude agreements entered into by a 
contractor for the supply of commodities that are intended for use in 
the performance of multiple contracts with the Federal Government and 
other parties and are not identifiable to any particular contract.
    Timetable:

[[Page 16981]]



------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   03/00/21
NPRM Comment Period End.............   05/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208-
4949, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN66

364. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018-012, Rights to 
Federally Funded Inventions and Licensing of Government-Owned 
Inventions

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Regulatory.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the FAR to 
implement the changes to 37 CFR parts 401 and 404, ``Rights to 
Federally Funded Inventions and Licensing of Government-Owned 
Inventions,'' dated May 14, 2018. The changes reduce regulatory burdens 
on the public, but increase burdens on the Government, provide greater 
clarity to large businesses by codifying the applicability of Bayh-Dole 
as directed in Executive Order 12591, and provide greater clarity to 
all Federal funding recipients by updating regulatory provisions to 
align with provisions of the Leahy-Smith America Invents Act in terms 
of definitions and timeframes.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   03/00/21
NPRM Comment Period End.............   04/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208-
4949, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN71

365. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018-013, Exemption 
of Commercial and COTS Item Contracts From Certain Laws and Regulations

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch.137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 839 of the John S. 
McCain National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2019. 
Paragraph (a) requires the FAR Council to review each past 
determination made not to exempt contracts and subcontracts for 
commercial products, commercial services, and commercially available 
off-the-shelf (COTS) items from certain laws when these contracts would 
otherwise have been exempt under 41 U.S.C. 1906(d) or 41 U.S.C. 
1907(b). The FAR Council or the Administrator for Federal Procurement 
Policy has to determine whether there still exists specific reason not 
to provide exemptions from certain laws. If no determination is made to 
continue to exempt commercial contracts and subcontracts from certain 
laws, paragraph (a) requires that revisions to the FAR be proposed to 
reflect exemptions from those laws.
    Paragraph (b) requires the FAR Council to review the FAR to assess 
every regulation that requires a specific clause in contracts for 
commercial products or commercial services, unless the regulation is 
required by law or Executive Order. Paragraph (b) also requires that 
revisions to the FAR be proposed to eliminate those regulations unless 
the FAR Council makes a determination not to eliminate a regulation.
    Paragraph (c) requires the FAR Council to review the FAR to assess 
every regulation that requires a prime contractor to include a specific 
clause in subcontracts for commercially available off-the-shelf items, 
unless the clause is required by law or Executive Order. Paragraph (c) 
also requires that revisions to the FAR be proposed to eliminate those 
regulations unless the FAR Council makes a determination not to 
eliminate a regulation.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   04/00/21
NPRM Comment Period End.............   06/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Mahruba Uddowla, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605-2868, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN72

366. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018-014, 
Increasing Task-Order Level Competition

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 876 of the John S. 
McCain National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2019, which 
would provide civilian agencies with an exception to the existing 
statutory requirement to include price to the Federal Government as an 
evaluation factor that must be considered in the evaluation of 
proposals for all contracts. The exception would only apply to IDIQ 
contracts and to Federal Supply Schedule contracts for services that 
are priced at an hourly rate. Furthermore, the exception would only 
apply in those instances where the Government intends to make a 
contract award to all qualifying offerors, thus affording maximum 
opportunity for effective competition at the task order level. An 
offeror would be qualified only if it is a responsible source and 
submits a proposal that conforms to the requirements of the 
solicitation, meets any technical requirements, and is otherwise 
eligible for award.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/00/21
NPRM Comment Period End.............   07/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover Sr., Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 501-
1448, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN73

367. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019-007, Update of 
Historically Underutilized Business Zone Program

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Other.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement regulatory changes issued in 
a final rule on November 26, 2019 by the Small Business Administration 
regarding the Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) 
Program. The regulatory changes are intended to reduce the regulatory 
burden associated with the HUBZone Program.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   03/00/21
NPRM Comment Period End.............   05/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 16982]]

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Malissa Jones, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605-2815, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN90

368. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019-008, Small 
Business Program Amendments

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Other.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement regulatory changes proposed 
by the Small Business Administration regarding small business programs. 
The proposed regulatory changes include the timing of the determination 
of size status for multiple-award contracts for which price is not 
evaluated at the contract level; the grounds for size-status protests; 
and the grounds for socioeconomic status protests.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   03/00/21
NPRM Comment Period End.............   05/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Malissa Jones, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605-2815, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN91

369. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019-010, Efficient 
Federal Operations

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement Executive Order 13834, 
``Efficient Federal Operations.'' Executive Order 13834 directs Federal 
agencies to comply with statutory requirements related to energy and 
environmental performance in a manner that increases efficiency, 
maximizes performance, eliminates unnecessary use of resources, and 
protects the environment. This rule promotes the efficient acquisition 
of sustainable products, services, and construction methods in order to 
reduce energy and water consumption, reliance on natural resources, and 
enhance pollution prevention, within the Federal Government.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   01/00/21
NPRM Comment Period End.............   03/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Kevin Funk, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 357-5805, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN94

370. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019-015, Improving 
Consistency Between Procurement & Non-Procurement Procedures on 
Suspension and Debarment

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Other.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to bring the FAR and the Non-procurement 
Common Rule (NCR) procedures on suspension and debarment into closer 
alignment. The FAR covers procurement matters and the NCR covers other 
transactions, such as grants, cooperative agreements, contracts of 
assistance, loans and loan guarantees.
    The Government uses suspension and debarment procedures to exercise 
business judgment. These procedures give Federal officials a 
discretionary means to exclude parties from participation in certain 
transactions, while affording those parties due process.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/00/21
NPRM Comment Period End.............   07/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover Sr., Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 501-
1448, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN98

371. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019-016, 
Maximizing Use of American-Made Goods, Products and Materials

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Fully or Partially Exempt.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement Executive Order (E.O.) 13881, 
Maximizing Use of American-Made Goods, Products, and Materials, which 
would provide that materials shall be considered to be of foreign 
origin if: (A) for iron and steel end products, the cost of foreign 
iron and steel used in such iron and steel end products constitutes 5 
percent or more of the cost of all the products used in such iron and 
steel end products; or (B) for all other end products, the cost of the 
foreign products used in such end products constitutes 45 percent or 
more of the cost of all the components. In addition, the E.O. provides 
that in determining price reasonableness or public interest, the 
evaluation factors of 20 percent (for other than small businesses), or 
30 percent (for small businesses) shall be applied to offers of 
materials of foreign origin.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   09/14/20  85 FR 56558
NPRM Comment Period End.............   11/13/20
Final Rule..........................   01/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969-7207, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN99

372. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020-004, 
Application of the MPT To Certain Task and Delivery Orders

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the FAR by 
implementing section 826 of the NDAA for FY 2020 (Pub. L. 116-92) which 
increases the threshold for requiring fair opportunity on orders under 
multiple-award contracts from $3,500 to the micro-purchase threshold, 
unless an exception applies. This change applies the word-based 
threshold to ensure continued alignment with any future changes to the 
thresholds.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   10/22/20  85 FR 67327
NPRM Comment Period End.............   12/21/20
Final Rule..........................   05/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 16983]]

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208-
4949, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO04

373. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020-005, 
Explanations to Unsuccessful Offerors on Certain Orders Under Task and 
Delivery Order Contracts

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Other.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 874 of the NDAA for 
FY 2020, which requires, when awarding a task or delivery order in an 
amount greater than the simplified acquisition threshold, but not 
greater than $5.5 million, contracting officers, upon written request 
from an unsuccessful offeror, to provide a brief explanation as to why 
the offeror was unsuccessful, including the rationale for award and an 
evaluation of the significant weak or deficient factors in the 
offeror's offer.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   04/00/21
NPRM Comment Period End.............   06/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Dana L. Bowman, Procurement Analyst, General 
Services Administration, 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 
202 357-9652, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO08

374. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020-007, 
Accelerated Payments Applicable to Contracts With Certain Small 
Business Concerns

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Other.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to establish an accelerated payment date 
for small business contractors, to the fullest extent permitted by law, 
with a goal of 15 days after receipt of a proper invoice, if a specific 
payment date is not established by contract. For contractors that 
subcontract with small businesses, the proposed rule, to the fullest 
extent permitted by law, establishes an accelerated payment date, with 
a goal of 15 days after receipt of a proper invoice, if: (1) A specific 
payment date is not established by contract, and (2) the contractor 
agrees to make accelerated payments to the subcontractor without any 
further consideration from, or fees charged to, the subcontractor. This 
change implements section 873 of the National Defense Authorization Act 
for Fiscal Year 2020 (Pub. L. 116-92). Section 873 amends 31 U.S.C. 
3903(a).
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   01/00/21
NPRM Comment Period End.............   03/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969-7207, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO10

375. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020-008, 
Prohibition on Criminal History Inquiries by Contractors Prior to 
Conditional Offer

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Other.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 1123 of the NDAA for 
FY 2020 (Pub. L. 116-92) for the prohibition on criminal history 
inquiries by contractors prior to conditional offer to an individual or 
sole proprietor.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/00/21
NPRM Comment Period End.............   07/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover Sr., Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 501-
1448, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO11

376. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020-010, Small 
Business Innovation Research and Technology Transfer Programs

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Other.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement changes to the U.S. Small 
Business Administration (SBA) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) 
and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Policy Directive issued 
(May 2, 2019). The proposed changes include updating FAR 27 to add 
reference to the STTR program, revise: definitions, allocation of 
rights, protection period, SBIR/STTR rights notice, data rights marking 
provisions, and add language to FAR 6.302-5(b) to acknowledge the 
unique competition requirements for SBIR/STTR Phase III contracts 
permitted by the Small Business Act.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   04/00/21
NPRM Comment Period End.............   06/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Mahruba Uddowla, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605-2868, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO12

377.  Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR CASE 2020-013, 
Certification of Women-Owned Small Businesses

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Other.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: The purpose of this new FAR case is to implement the 
statutory requirement for certification of women-owned and economically 
disadvantaged women-owned small businesses participating in the Women-
Owned Small Business Program (section 825 of the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015), as implemented by the Small 
Business Administration in its final rule published May 11, 2020.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/00/21
NPRM Comment Period End.............   07/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Malissa Jones, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605-2815, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO17


[[Page 16984]]



DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE/GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION/NATIONAL 
AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION (FAR)

Final Rule Stage

378. Federal Acquisition Regulation: FAR Case 2016-005; Effective 
Communication Between Government and Industry

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule amending the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 887 of the 
NDAA for FY 2016 (Pub. L. 114-92). This law provides that Government 
acquisition personnel are permitted and encouraged to engage in 
responsible and constructive exchanges with industry. This change will 
permit and encourage Government acquisition personnel to engage in 
responsible and constructive exchanges with industry as part of market 
research as long as those exchanges are consistent with existing laws 
and regulations and promote a fair competitive environment.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   11/29/16  81 FR 85914
NPRM Comment Period End.............   03/02/17
Final Rule..........................   01/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208-
4949, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN29

379. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017-005, 
Whistleblower Protection for Contractor Employees

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement 41 U.S.C. 4712, 
``Enhancement of Contractor Protection From Reprisal for Disclosure of 
Certain Information,'' and makes the pilot program permanent. The pilot 
was enacted on January 2, 2013, by section 828 of the National Defense 
Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year (FY) 2013. The rule clarifies 
that contractors and subcontractors are prohibited from discharging, 
demoting, or otherwise discriminating against an employee as a reprisal 
for disclosing to any of the entities such as agency Inspector Generals 
and Congress information that the employee reasonably believes is 
evidence of gross mismanagement of a Federal contract; a gross waste of 
Federal funds; an abuse of authority relating to a Federal contract; a 
substantial and specific danger to public health or safety; or a 
violation of law, rule, or regulation related to a Federal contract 
(including the competition for or negotiation of a contract.) This rule 
enhances whistleblower protections for contractor employees by making 
permanent the protection for disclosure of the aforementioned 
information, and ensuring that the prohibition on reimbursement for 
legal fees accrued in defense against reprisal claims applies to both 
contractors and subcontractors.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/26/18  83 FR 66223
NPRM Comment Period End.............   02/25/19
Final Rule..........................   03/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover Sr., Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 501-
1448, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN32

380. Federal Acquisition Regulation; FAR Case 2016-002, Applicability 
of Small Business Regulations Outside the United States

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Fully or Partially Exempt.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to support SBA's policy of 
including overseas contracts in agency small business contracting 
goals. SBA revised its regulation at 13 CFR 125.2, as finalized in its 
rule ``Acquisition Process: Task and Delivery Order Contracts, 
Bundling, Consolidation'' issued on October 2, 2013, to clarify that 
overseas contracting is not excluded from agency responsibilities to 
foster small business participation.
    In its final rule, SBA has clarified that, as a general matter, its 
small business contracting regulations apply regardless of the place of 
performance. In light of these changes, there is a need to amend the 
FAR, both to support the changes to SBA's regulation, and to give 
agencies the tools they need, especially the ability to use set-asides 
to maximize opportunities for small businesses overseas.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   08/12/19  84 FR 39793
NPRM Comment Period End.............   10/11/19
Final Rule..........................   01/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Mahruba Uddowla, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605-2868, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN34

381. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2016-011, Revision 
of Limitations on Subcontracting

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to revise and standardize the 
limitations on subcontracting, including the nonmanufacturer rule, that 
apply to small business concerns under FAR part 19 procurements. This 
rule incorporates the Small Business Administration's (SBA) final rule 
that implemented the statutory requirements of section 1651 of the 
National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2013. This 
action is necessary to meet the Congressional intent of clarifying the 
limitations on subcontracting with which small businesses must comply, 
as well as the ways in which they can comply. The rule will benefit 
both small businesses and Federal agencies. The rule will allow small 
businesses to take advantage of subcontracts with similarly situated 
entities. As a result, these small businesses will be able to compete 
for larger contracts, which would positively affect their potential for 
growth as well as that of their potential subcontractors.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/04/18  83 FR 62540
NPRM Comment Period End.............   02/04/19
Final Rule..........................   01/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.

[[Page 16985]]

    Agency Contact: Mahruba Uddowla, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605-2868, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN35

382. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017-003; 
Individual Sureties

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to change the kinds of assets that 
individual sureties must use as security for their individual surety 
bonds. This change implements section 874 of the National Defense 
Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2016 (Pub. L. 114-92), codified at 31 
U.S.C. 9310, Individual Sureties. Individual sureties will no longer be 
able to pledge real property, corporate stocks, corporate bonds, or 
irrevocable letters of credit. The requirements of 31 U.S.C. 9310 are 
intended to strengthen the assets pledged by individual sureties, 
thereby mitigating risk to the Government.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   02/12/20  85 FR 7910
NPRM Comment Period End.............   04/13/20
Final Rule..........................   01/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969-7207, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN39

383. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017-011, Section 
508-Based Standards in Information and Communication Technology

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Regulatory.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to incorporate recent revisions 
and updates to accessibility standards issued by the U.S. Access Board 
pursuant to section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This FAR 
change incorporates the U.S. Access Board's final rule, ``Information 
and Communication Technology (ICT) Standards and Guidelines,'' which 
published on January 18, 2017. This rule updates the FAR to ensure that 
the updated accessibility standards are appropriately considered in 
Federal ICT acquisitions.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   03/31/20  85 FR 17831
Correction..........................   04/16/20  85 FR 21139
NPRM Comment Period End.............   06/01/20
Final Rule..........................   01/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Camara Francis, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 550-0935, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN46

384. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017-018, Violation 
of Arms Control Treaties or Agreements With the United States

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 1290(c)(3) of 
the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2017, which 
requires an offeror or any of its subsidiaries to certify that it does 
not engage in any activity that contributed to or is a significant 
factor in the determination that a country is not in full compliance 
with its obligations undertaken in all arms control, nonproliferation, 
and disarmament agreements or commitments in which the United States is 
a participating state.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule..................   06/15/18  83 FR 28145
Interim Final Rule Comment Period      08/14/18
 End.
Final Rule..........................   11/00/20
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208-
4949, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN57

385. Federal Regulation Acquisition (FAR); FAR Case 2017-019, Policy on 
Joint Ventures

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement regulatory changes 
made by the Small Business Administration (SBA), Small Business Mentor 
Prot[eacute]g[eacute] Programs, published on July 25, 2016 (81 FR 
48557), regarding joint ventures and to clarify policy on 8(a) joint 
ventures. The regulatory changes provide industry with a new way to 
compete for small business or socioeconomic set-asides using a joint 
venture made up of a mentor and a prot[eacute]g[eacute]. The 8(a) joint 
venture clarification prevents confusion on an 8(a) joint venture's 
eligibility to compete for an 8(a) competitive procurement.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/05/20  85 FR 34561
NPRM Comment Period End.............   08/04/20
Final Rule..........................   06/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Malissa Jones, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605-2815, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN59

386. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018-016, Lowest 
Price Technically Acceptable Source Selection Process

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 880 of the 
John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal 
Year (FY) 2019 to avoid using lowest price technically acceptable 
source selection criteria in circumstances that would deny the 
Government the benefits of cost and technical tradeoffs in the source 
selection process.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   10/02/19  84 FR 52425
NPRM Comment Period End.............   12/02/19
Final Rule..........................   11/00/20
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA

[[Page 16986]]

(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208-4949, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN75

387. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018-020, 
Construction Contract Administration

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 855 of the 
NDAA for FY 2019 (Pub. L. 115-232). Section 855 requires, for 
solicitations for construction contracts anticipated to be awarded to a 
small business, notification to prospective offerors regarding agency 
policies or practices in complying with FAR requirements relating to 
the timely definitization of requests for equitable adjustment and 
agency past performance in definitizing such requests.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   04/01/20  85 FR 18181
NPRM Comment Period End.............   06/01/20
Final Rule..........................   04/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Dana L. Bowman, Procurement Analyst, General 
Services Administration, 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 
202 357-9652, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN78

388. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018-021, Reserve 
Officer Training Corps and Military Recruiting on Campus

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Fully or Partially Exempt.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement the requirements at 
10 U.S.C. 983, which prohibits the award of certain Federal contracts 
or grants to institutions of higher education that prohibit Senior 
Reserve Officer Training Corps units or military recruiting on campus.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   09/24/19  84 FR 49974
NPRM Comment Period End.............   11/25/19
Final Rule..........................   10/23/20  85 FR 67619
Final Rule Effective................   11/23/20
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969-7207, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN79

389. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); Far Case 2018-023, Taxes-
Foreign Contracts in Afghanistan

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement the provisions on 
taxes, duties, and fees contained in the Security and Defense 
Cooperation Agreement (dated 2014) and the North Atlantic Treaty 
Organization Status of Forces Agreement (dated 2014) with the Islamic 
Republic of Afghanistan. Both Agreements exempt the United States 
Government, and its contractors and subcontractors (other than those 
who are Afghan legal entities or residents), from paying any tax or 
similar charge assessed on activities associated with contracts 
performed within Afghanistan. The Agreements also exempt the 
acquisition, importation, exportation, reexportation, transportation, 
and use of supplies and services in Afghanistan, by or on behalf of the 
United States Government, from any taxes, customs, duties, fees, or 
similar charges in Afghanistan.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   09/20/19  84 FR 49502
Correction..........................   10/15/19  84 FR 55109
NPRM Comment Period End.............   11/19/19  .......................
Final Rule..........................   10/23/20  85 FR 67623
Final Rule Effective................   11/23/20  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Kevin Funk, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 357-5805, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN81

390. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018-017, 
Prohibition on Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance 
Services or Equipment

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Fully or Partially Exempt.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA amended the Federal Acquisition 
Regulation (FAR) to implement section 889 (a)(1)(A) of the National 
Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 19 (Pub. L. 115-232). Section 
889(a)(1)(A) prohibits the Government from procuring covered 
telecommunications equipment and services from Huawei Technologies 
Company, ZTE Corporation, Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou 
Technology Company, or Dahua Technology Company, to include any 
subsidiaries or affiliates. Provisions have been added to the FAR which 
require that an offeror represent at an entity level in SAM, and if 
applicable on an offer-by-offer basis, if the offeror will or will not 
provide any covered telecommunications equipment or services to the 
Government. If an offeror responds in an offer that it will provide 
covered telecommunications, the offeror will need to provide additional 
disclosures. This FAR rule is needed to protect U.S. networks against 
cyber activities conducted through Chinese Government-supported 
telecommunications equipment and services.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule..................   08/13/19  84 FR 40216
Interim Final Rule Comment Period      10/15/19  .......................
 End.
Interim Final Rule..................   12/13/19  84 FR 68314
Interim Final Rule Effective........   12/13/19  .......................
Interim Final Rule Comment Period      02/11/20  .......................
 End.
Final Rule..........................   03/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: FAR Policy, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, 
Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969-4075, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN83

391. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019-001, Analysis 
for Equipment Acquisitions

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Other.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113

[[Page 16987]]

    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the FAR by 
implementing section 555 of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) 
Reauthorization Act for FY 2018 (Pub. L. 115-254), which requires 
equipment to be acquired using the method of acquisition most 
advantageous to the Government based on a case-by-case analysis of 
costs and other factors. Section 555 requires the methods of 
acquisition to be compared in the analysis to include, at a minimum: 
(1) Purchase; (2) long-term lease or rental; (3) short-term lease or 
rental; (4) interagency acquisition; or, (5) acquisition agreements 
with a State or local government. Section 555 exempts certain 
acquisitions from this required analysis.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   08/24/20  85 FR 52081
NPRM Comment Period End.............   10/23/20  .......................
Final Rule..........................   04/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208-
4949, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN84

392. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019-002, 
Recreational Services on Federal Lands

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to exempt contracts for seasonal 
recreational services and seasonal recreational equipment rental on 
Federal lands from the Executive Order 13658 minimum wage requirements. 
This rule implements Executive Order 13838 that was issued on May 25, 
2018, and associated Department of Labor final rule published on 
September 26, 2018. In accordance with Executive Order 13838, this rule 
will not limit Executive Order 13658's coverage of lodging and food 
services associated with seasonal recreational services, even when 
seasonal recreational services or seasonal recreational equipment 
rental are also provided under the same contract.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   10/21/19  84 FR 56157
NPRM Comment Period End.............   12/20/19  .......................
Final Rule..........................   10/23/20  85 FR 67626
Final Rule Effective................   11/23/20  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Kevin Funk, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 357-5805, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN85

393. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019-003, 
Substantial Bundling and Consolidation

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are amending the Federal Acquisition 
Regulation (FAR) to implement section 863 of the National Defense 
Authorization Acts (NDAA) for FY 2016 and the Small Business 
Administration (SBA) implementing regulations requiring publication of 
a notice of substantial bundling and a notice of consolidation of 
contract requirements.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   04/27/20  85 FR 23299
NPRM Comment Period End.............   06/26/20  .......................
Final Rule..........................   04/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Dana Bowman, Procurement Analyst, DoD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, 
Phone: 202 208-4949, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN86

394. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019-004, Good 
Faith in Small Business Subcontracting

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 1821 of the 
National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2017 and the Small 
Business Administration regulatory changes relating to small business 
subcontracting plans. Section 1821 requires examples of activities that 
would be considered a failure to make a good faith effort to comply 
with small business subcontracting plan requirements.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/03/20  85 FR 34155
NPRM Comment Period End.............   08/03/20  .......................
Final Rule..........................   05/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Dana L. Bowman, Procurement Analyst, General 
Services Administration, 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 
202 357-9652, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN87

395. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019-009, 
Prohibition on Contracting With Entities Using Certain 
Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Other.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are amending the Federal Acquisition 
Regulation (FAR) to implement paragraph (a)(1)(B) of section 889 of the 
National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 19 (Pub. L. 115-232). 
Beginning two years from the enacted date, paragraph (a)(1)(B) of 
section 889 prohibits the Government from entering into a contract or 
extending or renewing a contract with an entity that uses any 
equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications 
equipment and services from Huawei Technologies Company, ZTE 
Corporation, Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Technology 
Company, or Dahua Technology Company, to include any subsidiaries or 
affiliates. This FAR rule is needed to protect U.S. networks against 
cyber activities conducted through Chinese Government-supported 
telecommunications equipment and services. Paragraph (a)(1)(A) of 
section 889 is being implemented separately through FAR Case 2018-017.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule..................   07/14/20  85 FR 42665
Interim Final Rule Effective........   08/13/20  .......................
Interim Final Rule..................   08/27/20  85 FR 53126
Interim Final Rule Comment Period      09/14/20  .......................
 End.
Interim Final Rule Comment Period      10/26/20  .......................
 End.

[[Page 16988]]

 
Interim Final Rule Effective........   10/26/20  .......................
Final Rule..........................   05/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: FAR Policy, DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, 
Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969-4075, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN92

396. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020-006, 
Documentation of Market Research

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA opened this case to implement section 
818 of the NDAA for FY 2020. Section 818 amends 10 U.S.C. 2377(c) and 
41 U.S.C. 3307(d) to require the head of the agency document the 
results of market research in a manner appropriate to the size and 
complexity of the acquisition.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   10/23/20  85 FR 67623
Final Rule Effective................   11/23/20  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Camara Francis, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 550-0935, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO09

397. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020-011, 
Implementation of Issued Exclusion and Removal Orders

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Other.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: This rule will amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation 
(FAR) to address implementation of issued exclusion and removal orders 
authorized by section 202 of the SECURE Technology Act (115 Pub. L. 
390), which amends 41 U.S.C. 1323 by creating the Federal Acquisition 
Security Council (FASC) and authorizing the Secretary of Homeland 
Security, the Secretary of Defense, and the Director of National 
Intelligence to issue exclusion and removal orders, upon the 
recommendation of the FASC. These orders are issued to protect national 
security by excluding certain covered products, services, or sources 
from the Federal supply chain.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule..................   01/00/21  .......................
Interim Final Rule Comment Period      03/00/21  .......................
 End.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Camara Francis, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 550-0935, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO13

398.  Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020-012, 
Scope of Review by Procurement Center Representatives

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: The purpose of this new FAR case is to implement section 
1811 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (15 
U.S.C. 644(l)(9)(A)), as implemented by the Small Business 
Administration's final rule published November 29, 2019 (84 FR 65647). 
15 U.S.C. 644(l)(9)(A) allows procurement center representatives to 
review solicitations without regard to whether the contract or order is 
set aside for small business, or reserved in the case of a multiple-
award contract, or whether the solicitation would result in a bundled 
or consolidated contract or order.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Direct Final Rule...................   04/00/21  .......................
Direct Final Rule Comment Period End   06/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Malissa Jones, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605-2815, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO16

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE/GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION/NATIONAL 
AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION (FAR)

Completed Actions

399. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2014-002; Set-
Asides Under Multiple Award Contracts

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Fully or Partially Exempt.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule amending the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement regulatory changes 
made by the Small Business Administration, which provide Governmentwide 
policy for partial set-asides and reserves and for set-asides of orders 
for small business concerns under multiple-award contracts.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule Effective................   03/30/20  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Mahruba Uddowla, Phone: 703 605-2868, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AM93

400. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2016-013, Tax on 
Certain Foreign Procurement

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 37; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement a final rule issued 
by the Department of the Treasury that implements section 301 of the 
James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010, Public Law 111-
347. This section imposes on any foreign person that receives a 
specified Federal procurement payment a tax equal to two percent of the 
amount of such payment. This rule applies to foreign persons that are 
awarded Federal Government contracts to provide goods or services.
    completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   05/06/20  85 FR 27098
Final Rule Effective................   06/05/20  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.

[[Page 16989]]

    Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Phone: 202 969-7207, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN38

401. Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR); FAR Case 2015-002, 
Requirements for DD Form 254, Contract Security Classification 
Specification

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to require the use of Department 
of Defense (DoD) Wide Area Workflow (WAWF) for the electronic 
submission of the DD Form 254, ``Contract Security Classification 
Specification.'' This form is used to convey security requirements 
regarding classified information to contractors and subcontractors and 
must be submitted to the Defense Security Services (DSS) when 
contractors or subcontractors require access to classified information 
under contracts awarded by agencies that are covered by the National 
Industrial Security Program (NISP). By changing the submittal process 
of the form from a manual process to an automated one, the Government 
will reduce the cost of maintaining the forms, while also providing a 
centralized repository for classified contract security requirements 
and supporting data.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   07/02/20  85 FR 40061
Final Rule Effective................   08/03/20  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover, Phone: 202 501-1448, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN40

402. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2017-010, 
Evaluation Factors for Multiple-Award Contracts

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 825 of the 
National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 17 (Pub. L. 114-328). 
Section 825 amends 10 U.S.C. 2305(a)(3) to change the requirement 
regarding the consideration of cost or price to the Government as a 
factor in the evaluation of proposals for certain multiple-award task 
order contracts awarded by DoD, NASA, or the Coast Guard. At the 
Government's discretion, solicitations for multiple-award contracts, 
which intend to award the same or similar services to each qualifying 
offeror, do not require price or cost as an evaluation factor for the 
base contract award. This rule will streamline the award of contracts 
for DoD, NASA, and the Coast Guard because they will not be required to 
consider cost or price in the evaluation of the award decision. 
Relieving the requirement to account for cost or price when evaluating 
proposals for these types of contracts, which feature competitive 
orders, will enable procurement officials to focus their energy on 
establishing and evaluating the non-price factors that will result in 
more meaningful distinctions among offerors.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   07/02/20  85 FR 40068
Final Rule Effective................   08/03/20  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Phone: 202 208-4949, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN54

403. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018-004; Increased 
Micro-Purchase and Simplified Acquisition Thresholds

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
FAR to implement sections 805, 806, and 1702(a) of the National Defense 
Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2018. Section 805 increases the micro-
purchase threshold (MPT) to $10,000 and limits the use of convenience 
checks to not more than one half of the MPT amount (i.e., $5,000). 
Section 806 increases the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT) to 
$250,000. Section 1702(a) amends section 15(j)(1) of the Small Business 
Act (15 U.S.C. 644(j)(1)) to replace specific dollar thresholds with 
the terms ``micro-purchase threshold'' and ``simplified acquisition 
threshold.''
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   07/02/20  85 FR 40064
Final Rule Effective................   08/31/20  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Phone: 202 208-4949, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN65

404. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018-005, 
Modifications to Cost or Pricing Data and Reporting Requirements

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Deregulatory.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to increase the Truth in 
Negotiation Act (TINA) threshold to $2 million and require other than 
certified cost or pricing data. The rule reduces the burden on 
contractors because they would not be required to certify their cost or 
pricing data between $750,000 and $2 million. This change implements 
section 811 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 
2018. Section 811 modifies 10 U.S.C. 2306a and 41 U.S.C. 3502.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   07/02/20  85 FR 40071
Final Rule Effective................   08/03/20  .......................
Correction..........................   08/28/20  85 FR 53247
Final Rule Effective................   08/28/20  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Phone: 202 969-7207, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN69

405. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2018-022; Orders 
Issued Via Fax or Electronic Commerce

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Not subject to, not significant.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule amending a 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clause to permit the issuance of 
task or delivery orders via facsimile or electronic commerce and 
clarify when an order is considered `'issued'' when using these 
methods.
    Completed:

[[Page 16990]]



------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   07/02/20  85 FR 40075
Final Rule Effective................   08/03/20  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover, Phone: 202 501-1448, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN80

406. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2019-013, Inflation 
Adjustment of Acquisition-Related Thresholds

    E.O. 13771 Designation: Other.
    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c) ; 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement the inflation 
adjustment of acquisition-related dollar thresholds. A statute (41 
U.S.C. 1908) requires an adjustment every 5 years of acquisition-
related thresholds for inflation using the Consumer Price Index for all 
urban consumers, except for the Construction Wage Rate Requirements 
statute (formerly Davis-Bacon Act), Service Contract Labor Standards 
statute, and trade agreements thresholds.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/30/20  85 FR 39146
Final Rule..........................   10/02/20  85 FR 62485
Final Rule Effective................   10/01/20  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Phone: 202 208-4949, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN96

[FR Doc. 2021-04359 Filed 3-30-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-EP-P


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