General Services Administration – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

The Department of Defense cancelled the following Optional Form because of low usage: OF 70A, Fragile Label (2\1/2\ x 2\1/2\'').

Under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Secretariat will be submitting to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a request to review and approve an extension of a currently approved information collection requirement concerning payment by electronic fund transfer. This OMB clearance currently expires on September 30, 2005. Public comments are particularly invited on: Whether this collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of functions of the FAR, and whether it will have practical utility; whether our estimate of the public burden of this collection of information is accurate, and based on valid assumptions and methodology; ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and ways in which we can minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, through the use of appropriate technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

The Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense Acquisition Regulations Council (Councils) have agreed to convert the interim rule published in the Federal Register at 69 FR 34226, June 18, 2004, to a final rule with changes to amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement Sections 1431 and 1433 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2004 (Pub. L. 108-136). Section 1431 enacts Governmentwide authority to treat performance-based contracts or task orders for services as commercial items if certain conditions are met, and requires agencies to report on performance- based contracts or task orders awarded using this authority. Section 1433 amends the definition of commercial item to add specific performance-based terminology and to conform to the language added by Section 1431.

The Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense Acquisition Regulations Council (Councils) have agreed on a final rule amending the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to remove some of the exceptions to the applicability of the Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB) and HUBZone price evaluation factor.

The Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense Acquisition Regulations Council (Councils) have agreed on a final rule amending the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) by revising the cost principles for Deferred compensation other than pensions, and Postretirement benefits other than pensions. The related contract clause, Reversion or Adjustment of Plans for Postretirement Benefits (PRB) Other Than Pensions, is also revised. The rule revises the cost principle and contract clause by improving clarity and structure, and removing unnecessary and duplicative language. The revisions are intended to revise contract cost principles and procedures, in light of the evolution of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), the advent of Acquisition Reform, and experience gained from implementation of the cost principles in the FAR.

This document is issued under the joint authority of the Secretary of Defense, the Administrator of General Services and the Administrator for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. This Small Entity Compliance Guide has been prepared in accordance with Section 212 of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996. It consists of a summary of rules appearing in Federal Acquisition Circular (FAC) 2005-04 which amend the FAR. An asterisk (*) next to a rule indicates that a regulatory flexibility analysis has been prepared. Interested parties may obtain further information regarding these rules by referring to FAC 2005-04 which precedes this document. These documents are also available via the Internet at http:/ /www.acqnet.gov/far.

The Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense Acquisition Regulations Council (Councils) have agreed to convert the interim rule amending the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) published in the Federal Register at 69 FR 76352, December 20, 2004, to a final rule without change. This rule implemented Executive Order (E.O.) 13201, Notification of Employee Rights Concerning Payment of Union Dues or Fees. The rule requires Government contractors and subcontractors to post notices, in all plants and offices, whether or not used in performing work that supports a Federal contract, informing their employees that under Federal law they cannot be required to join a union or maintain membership in a union to retain their jobs. The required notices also advise employees who are not union members that they can object to the use of their union dues for certain purposes.

Pursuant to the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) , 42 U.S.C. Sec. 4321-4347, the Council on Environmental Quality Regulations (40 CFR parts 15001508), GSA Order PBS P 1095.1F (Environmental considerations in decision-making, dated October 19, 1999), and the GSA Public Buildings Service NEPA Desk Guide, GSA plans to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the proposed Master Plan for the redevelopment of the St. Elizabeths (St. Es) West Campus in Southeast Washington, DC. GSA has initiated consultation under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, 16 U.S.C. Sec. 470f, for the proposed Master Plan.

The General Services Administration (GSA) is amending the General Services Administration Acquisition Regulation (GSAR) in order to be consistent with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), to update GSAR clauses pertaining to subcontracting plans to include veteran-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses.

Under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), the General Services Administration will be submitting to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a request to review and approve a renewal of a currently approved information collection requirement regarding identification of products with environmental attributes. Public comments are particularly invited on: Whether this collection of information is necessary and whether it will have practical utility; whether our estimate of the public burden of this collection of information is accurate, and based on valid assumptions and methodology; ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected.

SUMMARY: It has been reported recently to Congressional committees and the General Services Administration (GSA), Public Buildings Service that some Federal agencies using the delegated leasing authority issued to Federal agencies on September 25, 1996, as part of the ``Can't Beat GSA Leasing'' program are not following properly the instructions specified as a condition for use of the leasing delegation. The attached bulletin reemphasizes and updates the notification and reporting requirements specified in the delegation of authority and its supporting information, GSA Bulletin FPMR D-239 and GSA Bulletin FPMR D-239, Supplement 1, which are hereby canceled and superseded by this bulletin. Additional reporting requirements for categorical and special purpose space delegations are also included. This bulletin is in keeping with the spirit of Executive Order 13327, ``Federal Real Property Asset Management,'' in order to maximize the increased Governmentwide emphasis on real property inventory management. The FMR and any corresponding documents may be accessed at GSA's website at https://www.gsa.gov/fmr. Click on FMR Bulletins.

Under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Secretariat will be submitting to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a request to review and approve an extension of a currently approved information collection requirement concerning permits, authorities, or franchises certification. The clearance currently expires on July 31, 2005. Public comments are particularly invited on: Whether this collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of functions of the FAR, and whether it will have practical utility; whether our estimate of the public burden of this collection of information is accurate, and based on valid assumptions and methodology; ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and ways in which we can minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, through the use of appropriate technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

Under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Secretariat will be submitting to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a request to review and approve an extension of a currently approved information collection requirement concerning transportation requirements. The clearance currently expires on October 31, 2005. Public comments are particularly invited on: Whether this collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of functions of the FAR, and whether it will have practical utility; whether our estimate of the public burden of this collection of information is accurate, and based on valid assumptions and methodology; ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and ways in which we can minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, through the use of appropriate technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

The General Services Administration (GSA) is amending the Federal Travel Regulation (FTR), by clarifying various provisions regarding temporary duty (TDY) travel. The explanation of changes is addressed in the supplementary information below. The FTR and any corresponding documents may be accessed at GSA's website at https:// www.gsa.gov/ftr.

Under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Secretariat will be submitting to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a request to review and approve an extension of a currently approved information collection requirement concerning advance payments. The clearance currently expires on July 31, 2005. Public comments are particularly invited on: Whether this collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of functions of the FAR, and whether it will have practical utility; whether our estimate of the public burden of this collection of information is accurate, and based on valid assumptions and methodology; ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and ways in which we can minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, through the use of appropriate technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

Under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Secretariat will be submitting to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a request to review and approve an extension of a currently approved information collection requirement concerning economic price adjustment. The clearance currently expires on August 31, 2005. Public comments are particularly invited on: Whether this collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of functions of the FAR, and whether it will have practical utility; whether our estimate of the public burden of this collection of information is accurate, and based on valid assumptions and methodology; ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and ways in which we can minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, through the use of appropriate technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

Under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Secretariat will be submitting to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a request to review and approve an extension of a currently approved information collection requirement concerning bankruptcy. The clearance currently expires on June 30, 2005. Public comments are particularly invited on: Whether this collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of functions of the FAR, and whether it will have practical utility; whether our estimate of the public burden of this collection of information is accurate, and based on valid assumptions and methodology; ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and ways in which we can minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, through the use of appropriate technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

Under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), the General Services Administration has submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a request to review and approve a renewal of a currently approved information collection requirement regarding the GSAR Price Reductions Clause. A request for public comments was published at 70 FR 10404, March 3, 2005. No comments were received. Public comments are particularly invited on: Whether this collection of information is necessary and whether it will have practical utility; whether our estimate of the public burden of this collection of information is accurate, and based on valid assumptions and methodology; ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected.

Under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), the General Services Administration will be submitting to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a request to review and approve a renewal of a currently approved information collection requirement regarding preparation, submission, and negotiation of subcontracting plans. The clearance currently expires on August 31, 2005. This information collection will ensure that small and small disadvantaged business concerns are afforded the maximum practicable opportunity to participate as subcontractors in construction, repair, and alteration or lease contracts. Preparation, submission, and negotiation of subcontracting plans requires all negotiated solicitations having an anticipated award value over $500,000 ($1,000,000 for construction), submission of a subcontracting plan with other than small business concerns when a negotiated acquisition meets all four of the following conditions. 1. When the contracting officer anticipates receiving individual subcontracting plans (not commercial plans). 2. When the award is based on trade-offs among cost or price and technical and/or management factors under FAR 15.101-1. 3. The acquisition is not a commercial item acquisition. 4. The acquisition offers more than minimal subcontracting opportunities. Public comments are particularly invited on: Whether this collection of information is necessary and whether it will have practical utility; whether our estimate of the public burden of this collection of information is accurate, and based on valid assumptions and methodology; ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected.

Under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Secretariat will be submitting to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a request to review and approve an extension of a currently approved information collection requirement concerning incentive contracts. The clearance currently expires on June 30, 2005. Public comments are particularly invited on: Whether this collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of functions of the FAR, and whether it will have practical utility; whether our estimate of the public burden of this collection of information is accurate, and based on valid assumptions and methodology; ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and ways in which we can minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, through the use of appropriate technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

Under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Secretariat will be submitting to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a request to review and approve an extension of a currently approved information collection requirement concerning the Buy American ActConstruction (Grimberg Decision). The clearance currently expires on June 30, 2005. Public comments are particularly invited on: Whether this collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of functions of the FAR, and whether it will have practical utility; whether our estimate of the public burden of this collection of information is accurate, and based on valid assumptions and methodology; ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and ways in which we can minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, through the use of appropriate technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

The General Services Administration (GSA) has reviewed the lodging rates of certain locations in the States of Arizona, Florida, Maryland, Missouri, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Washington and determined that they are inadequate. The per diems prescribed in Bulletin 05-5 may be found at https://www.gsa.gov/perdiem.

The Federal Acquisition Conference and Exposition (FACE) 2005 is a forum for Federal acquisition professionals and policy makers to share their insights and experiences. FACE also provides a full range of training on the latest acquisition issues and an opportunity to review exhibitors' products and services. The Chief Acquisition Officers Council, Federal Acquisition Institute, U.S. General Services Administration, and Department of Defense are sponsoring the FACE 2005. This Governmentwide conference has become a major event for the acquisition community. The Federal Acquisition Institute is serving as the conference planner. The conference will be held June 7-8, 2005 at the Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC. The theme of this year's conference, ``Mission Possible through Acquisition,'' recognizes contracting as a key component in supporting how Federal agencies acquire the goods and services that enable them to perform their missions. Benefits of Attending Earn 10.5 Continuous Learning Points; Learn about important issues and emerging trends in acquisition; Hear from senior managers, agency experts, and industry partners; Visit the exhibit hall to review products and services; and Network with your colleagues in the Federal acquisition community throughout the conference and at the reception Tuesday evening. WHO SHOULD ATTEND? Contracting officers, contract specialists, contracting officer's technical representatives/contracting officer's representatives, program managers, and private industry contractors. REGISTRATION: Registration rates are $400 for government attendees and $700 for industry attendees. These registration rates and online registration expire on May 31, 2005. After May 31, attendees may register onsite. Onsite rates are $500 for government attendees and $750 for industry attendees. Register online: www.fai.gov/face.

Under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Secretariat has submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a request to review and approve an extension of a currently approved information collection requirement concerning North Carolina sales tax certification. A request for public comments was published at 70 FR 5970, on February 4, 2005. No comments were received. Public comments are particularly invited on: Whether this collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of functions of the FAR, and whether it will have practical utility; whether our estimate of the public burden of this collection of information is accurate, and based on valid assumptions and methodology; ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and ways in which we can minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, through the use of appropriate technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

Under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Secretariat has submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a request to review and approve an extension of a currently approved information collection requirement concerning contractor use of Government supply sources. A request for public comments was published at 70 FR 5971, February 4, 2005, No comments were received. Public comments are particularly invited on: Whether this collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of functions of the FAR, and whether it will have practical utility; whether our estimate of the public burden of this collection of information is accurate, and based on valid assumptions and methodology; ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and ways in which we can minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, through the use of appropriate technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology.