[Federal Register: February 8, 2002 (Volume 67, Number 27)]
[Rules and Regulations]               
[Page 6111-6113]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr08fe02-14]                         


[[Page 6111]]  
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Part III

Department of Defense

General Services Administration

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

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

48 CFR Chapter 1 et al.

Federal Acquisition Regulations; Final Rules

[[Page 6112]]

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

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

48 CFR Chapter 1

 
Federal Acquisition Circular 2001-04; Introduction

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

ACTION: Summary presentation of final and interim rules.

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

SUMMARY: This document summarizes the Federal Acquisition Regulation 
(FAR) rules agreed to by the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and 
the Defense Acquisition Regulations Council in this Federal Acquisition 
Circular (FAC) 2001-04. A companion document, the Small Entity 
Compliance Guide (SECG), follows this FAC. The FAC, including the SECG, 
is available via the Internet at http://www.arnet.gov/far.

DATES: For effective dates and comment dates, see separate documents 
which follow.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: The FAR Secretariat, Room 4035, GS 
Building, Washington, DC 20405, (202) 501-4755, for information 
pertaining to status or publication schedules. For clarification of 
content, contact the analyst whose name appears in the table below in 
relation to each FAR case or subject area. Please cite FAC 2001-04 and 
specific FAR case number(s). Interested parties may also visit our 
website at http://www.arnet.gov/far.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
         Item                Subject         FAR case       Analyst
------------------------------------------------------------------------
I....................  Definitions for       2000-404  DeStefano.
                        Classified
                        Acquisitions.
II...................  Special Simplified    2002-002  Moss.
                        Procedures for
                        Purchases of
                        Commercial Items
                        in Excess of the
                        Simplified
                        Acquisition
                        Threshold.
III..................  Notification of       2001-013  Olson.
                        Noncompliance with
                        Cost Accounting
                        Standards.
IV...................  Executive Order       2001-017  Nelson.
                        13204, Revocation
                        of Executive Order
                        on Nondisplacement
                        of Qualified
                        Workers Under
                        Certain Contracts.
V....................  Caribbean Basin       2000-306  Davis.
                        Country End
                        Products.
VI...................  Final Contract        1999-026  Klein.
                        Voucher Submission.
VII..................  Technical            .........  .................
                        Amendments.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Summaries for each FAR rule follow. For the 
actual revisions and/or amendments to these FAR cases, refer to the 
specific item number and subject set forth in the documents following 
these item summaries.
    FAC 2001-04 amends the FAR as specified below:

Item I--Definitions for Classified Acquisitions (FAR Case 2000-404)

    This final rule amends the FAR to clarify definitions that are used 
for classified procurements. The final rule--
     Moves the definitions of ``classified acquisition,'' 
``classified contract,'' and ``classified information'' from FAR 4.401 
to FAR 2.101, because the definitions apply to more than one FAR part;
     Amends those definitions for clarity;
     Amends the definition of ``classified information'' to 
reflect classification of privately generated restricted data in 
accordance with Department of Energy regulations; and
     Amends the policy regarding bid openings for classified 
acquisitions at FAR 14.402-2 for clarity.

Item II--Special Simplified Procedures for Purchases of Commercial 
Items in Excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (FAR Case 
2002-002)

    This rule amends FAR Subpart 13.5 to implement Section 823 of the 
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2002 (Pub. L. 107-
107). Section 823 amends Section 4202(e) of the Clinger-Cohen Act of 
1996 (Divisions D and E of Pub. L. 104-106; 110 Stat. 654; 10 U.S.C. 
2304 note) to extend, through January 1, 2003, the expiration of the 
test of special simplified procedures for purchases of commercial items 
greater than the simplified acquisition threshold, but not exceeding 
$5,000,000.

Item III--Notification of Noncompliance With Cost Accounting 
Standards (FAR Case 2001-013)

    This final rule amends Table 15-2, Instructions for Submitting 
Cost/Price Proposals When Cost or Pricing Data are Required, located at 
FAR 15.4, Contract pricing. The rule removes the requirement for a 
contractor to notify the contracting officer when there is a 
noncompliance that has an immaterial cost impact. The rule affects 
contracting officers that require cost or pricing data on cost 
accounting standard-covered contracts.

Item IV--Executive Order 13204, Revocation of Executive Order on 
Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers Under Certain Contracts (FAR 
Case 2001-017)

    The interim rule published in the Federal Register at 66 FR 27416, 
May 16, 2001, is converted to a final rule without change. This rule 
finalizes the implementation of Executive Order (E.O.) 13204, 
Revocation of Executive Order on Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers 
Under Certain Contracts, signed by the President on February 17, 2001. 
The E.O. requires that any rules implementing E.O. 12933, 
Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers Under Certain Contracts, be 
promptly rescinded. As a result, Subpart 22.12 and the clause at 
52.222-50 were removed and reserved. The clause at 52.212-5 was amended 
by revising the date and removing paragraph (c)(6). Contracting 
officers should not take any action on any complaint filed under former 
FAR Subpart 22.12.

Item V--Caribbean Basin Country End Products (FAR Case 2000-306)

    This interim rule amends FAR 25.003, 25.400, 25.404, and the clause 
at 52.225-5, Trade Agreements, to implement the determination of the 
United States Trade Representative (USTR) to renew the treatment of 
Caribbean Basin country end products as eligible products under the 
Trade Agreements Act (TAA), with the exception of end products from the 
Dominican Republic, Honduras, and Panama. This rule applies only if an 
acquisition is subject to the TAA (see FAR 25.403). The Dominican 
Republic and Honduras were already removed from the definition of 
Caribbean Basin countries in FAC 97-17, FAR case 2000-003, published in 
the Federal Register at 65 FR 24321, April 25, 2000. This rule now 
removes Panama. Offers of end products from these countries are

[[Page 6113]]

no longer acceptable under acquisitions subject to the TAA unless the 
contracting officer does not receive any offers of U.S.-made end 
products or eligible products (designated, Caribbean Basin, or NAFTA 
country end products).
    This interim rule also amends the definition of ``Caribbean Basin 
country end product'' at FAR 25.003 and in the clause at 52.225-5, 
Trade Agreements, to implement Section 211 of the United States--
Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act and the determinations of the 
USTR as to which countries qualify for the enhanced trade benefits 
under that Act. Offerors of end products from the Caribbean Basin must 
understand the revised definition in order to certify whether the 
products that they are offering qualify as Caribbean Basin country end 
products. The definition of ``Caribbean Basin country end product'' 
excludes products that do not qualify for duty-free treatment. 
Information provided in this rule helps offerors determine the duty-
free status of a product by review of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of 
the United States.

Item VI--Final Contract Voucher Submission (FAR Case 1999-026)

    This final rule amends FAR 42.705, Final indirect cost rates, and 
FAR 52.216-7, Allowable Cost and Payment, to explicitly state the right 
of the contracting officer to unilaterally determine the final contract 
payment amount when the contractor does not submit the final invoice or 
voucher within the time specified in the contract. The rule is 
applicable to contracting officers that administer contract closeout 
procedures.

Item VII--Technical Amendments

    These amendments update sections and make editorial changes at 
sections 3.807, 9.203, 12.301, 13.301, 14.205-2, 14.409-1, 15.404-4, 
31.002, 31.205-17, 36.606, 42.705-1, 46.202-4, 51.101, 52.212-3, 
52.213-4, 52.219-21, and 52.222-44.

    Dated: February 1, 2002.
Al Matera,
Director, Acquisition Policy Division.

Federal Acquisition Circular

    Federal Acquisition Circular (FAC) 2001-04 is issued under the 
authority of the Secretary of Defense, the Administrator of General 
Services, and the Administrator for the National Aeronautics and 
Space Administration.
    Unless otherwise specified, all Federal Acquisition Regulation 
(FAR) and other directive material contained in FAC 2001-04 is 
effective February 20, 2002.

Dated: January 31, 2002.

Carolyn M. Balven,
Col., USAF Deputy Dir., Defense Procurement.

Dated: January 30, 2002.

David A. Drabkin,
Deputy Associate Administrator, Office of Acquisition Policy, 
General Services Administration.

Dated: January 30, 2002.

Tom Luedtke,
Associate Administrator for Procurement, National Aeronautics and 
Space Administration.

[FR Doc. 02-2912 Filed 2-7-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-EP-P

[Federal Register: February 8, 2002 (Volume 67, Number 27)]
[Rules and Regulations]               
[Page 6113-6114]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr08fe02-15]                         

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

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

48 CFR Parts 2, 4, 14, and 32

[FAC 2001-04; FAR Case 2000-404; 
Item I]
RIN 9000-AI81

 
Federal Acquisition Regulation; Definitions for Classified 
Acquisitions

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense 
Acquisition Regulations Council (Councils) have agreed to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to provide consistent definitions 
for classified acquisitions.

DATES: Effective Date: February 20, 2002.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: The FAR Secretariat, Room 4035, GS 
Building, Washington, DC 20405, (202) 501-4755, for information 
pertaining to status or publication schedules. For clarification of 
content, contact Mr. Ralph DeStefano, Procurement Analyst, at (202) 
501-1758. Please cite FAC 2001-04, FAR case 2000-404.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

A. Background

    This rule amends the FAR to address perceived inconsistencies in 
definitions that are used for classified acquisitions. The rule moves 
the definitions of ``classified acquisition,'' ``classified contract,'' 
and ``classified information'' from FAR 4.401 to FAR 2.101, because the 
definitions apply to more than one FAR part. Those definitions also 
have been amended for clarity. The definition of ``classified 
information'' has been further amended to reflect classification of 
privately generated restricted data in accordance with Department of 
Energy regulations at 10 CFR 1045.21. The rule also amends the policy 
regarding bid openings for classified acquisitions at FAR 14.402-2 for 
clarity.
    DoD, GSA, and NASA published a proposed rule in the Federal 
Register at 65 FR 46558, July 28, 2000. Four respondents submitted 
comments on the proposed rule. The Councils considered all comments in 
the development of the final rule. The following issues merit noting:
     Comment: Expand the definition of ``classified 
information'' at FAR 2.101 to include privately generated Restricted 
Data, which is established under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as 
amended, and implemented in 10 CFR 1045.21. Response: Accepted.
     Comment: Amend the ``classified contract'' definition at 
FAR 2.101 to address only situations where the contract itself is 
classified and add a new ``contracts involving access to classified'' 
definition at FAR 2.101. Commentor believed that the suggested change 
was more in keeping with a ``plain language'' philosophy. Response: Not 
accepted. The suggested change does not conform to the way the terms 
are used in the FAR.
     Comment: The rule at FAR 14.402-2 states ``the contracting 
officer must not make a public record of the bids or the bid prices.'' 
The language is too narrow because it only restricts the contracting 
officer from making a public record. Response: Accepted. The current 
FAR language will be retained in lieu of the language in the proposed 
rule. Keeping the present FAR language addresses the person opening the 
bids.
    This is not a significant regulatory action, and therefore, was not 
subject to review under Section 6(b) of Executive Order 12866, 
Regulatory Planning and Review, dated September 30, 1993. This rule is 
not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804.

B. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Department of Defense, the General Services Administration, and 
the National Aeronautics and Space Administration certify that this 
final rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial 
number of small entities within the meaning of the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 601, et seq., because, while we have made 
changes for clarity, we

[[Page 6114]]

have not substantively changed procedures for award and administration 
of contracts.

C. Paperwork Reduction Act

    The Paperwork Reduction Act does not apply because the changes to 
the FAR do not impose information collection requirements that require 
the approval of the Office of Management and Budget under 44 U.S.C. 
3501, et seq.

List of Subjects in 48 CFR parts 2, 4, 14, and 32

    Government procurement.

    Dated: February 1, 2002.
Al Matera,
Director, Acquisition Policy Division.

    Therefore, DoD, GSA, and NASA amend 48 CFR parts 2, 4, 14, and 32 
as set forth below:

    1. The authority citation for 48 CFR parts 2, 4, 14, and 32 
continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c); 10 U.S.C. chapter 137; and 42 
U.S.C. 2473(c).

PART 2--DEFINITIONS OF WORDS AND TERMS

    2. Amend section 2.101 by adding, in alphabetical order, the 
definitions ``classified acquisition,'' ``classified contract,'' and 
``classified information'' to read as follows:


2.101  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Classified acquisition means an acquisition in which offerors must 
have access to classified information to properly submit an offer or 
quotation, to understand the performance requirements, or to perform 
the contract.
    Classified contract means any contract in which the contractor or 
its employees must have access to classified information during 
contract performance. A contract may be a classified contract even 
though the contract document itself is unclassified.
    Classified information means any knowledge that can be communicated 
or any documentary material, regardless of its physical form or 
characteristics, that--
    (1)(i) Is owned by, is produced by or for, or is under the control 
of the United States Government; or
    (ii) Has been classified by the Department of Energy as privately 
generated restricted data following the procedures in 10 CFR 1045.21; 
and
    (2) Must be protected against unauthorized disclosure according to 
Executive Order 12958, Classified National Security Information, April 
17, 1995, or classified in accordance with the Atomic Energy Act of 
1954.
* * * * *

PART 4--ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS


4.401  [Reserved]

    3. Section 4.401 is removed and reserved.

PART 14--SEALED BIDDING


14.103-1  [Amended]

    4. Amend section 14.103-1 in paragraph (c) by removing ``(see 
4.401)''.

    5. Revise section 14.402-2 to read as follows:


14.402-2  Classified bids.

    The general public may not attend bid openings for classified 
acquisitions. A bidder or its representative may attend and record the 
results if the individual has the appropriate security clearance. The 
contracting officer also may make the bids available at a later time to 
properly cleared individuals who represent bidders. No public record 
shall be made of bids or bid prices received in response to classified 
invitations for bids.

PART 32--CONTRACT FINANCING


32.1103  [Amended]

    6. Amend section 32.1103 in paragraph (d) by removing ``(see 
4.401)''.

[FR Doc. 02-2913 Filed 2-7-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-EP-P

[Federal Register: February 8, 2002 (Volume 67, Number 27)]
[Rules and Regulations]               
[Page 6114-6115]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr08fe02-16]                         

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

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

48 CFR Part 13

[FAC 2001-04; FAR Case 2002-002; Item II]
RIN 9000-AJ28

 
Federal Acquisition Regulation; Special Simplified Procedures for 
Purchases of Commercial Items in Excess of the Simplified Acquisition 
Threshold

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: 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 implement Section 
823 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 
(Pub. L. 107-107). Section 823 extends the test of the special 
simplified procedures for purchases of commercial items greater than 
the simplified acquisition threshold, but not exceeding $5,000,000, 
until January 1, 2003.

DATES: Effective Date: February 20, 2002.
    Applicability Date: FAR Subpart 13.5, as amended by this rule, is 
applicable to solicitations issued on or after January 1, 2002.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: The FAR Secretariat, Room 4035, GS 
Building, Washington, DC, 20405, (202) 501-4755, for information 
pertaining to status or publication schedules. For clarification of 
content, contact Ms. Victoria Moss, Procurement Analyst, at (202) 501-
4764. Please cite FAC 2001-04, FAR case 2002-002.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

A. Background

    This final rule amends FAR Subpart 13.5 to implement section 823 of 
the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2002 (Pub. L. 
107-107). Section 823 amends section 4202(e) of the Clinger-Cohen Act 
of 1996 (Divisions D and E of Pub. L. 104-106; 110 Stat. 654; 10 U.S.C. 
2304 note) to extend, through January 1, 2003, the expiration of the 
test of special simplified procedures for purchases of commercial items 
greater than the simplified acquisition threshold, but not exceeding 
$5,000,000.
    This is not a significant regulatory action, and therefore, was not 
subject to review under Section 6(b) of Executive Order 12866, 
Regulatory Planning and Review, dated September 30, 1993. This rule is 
not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804.

B. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    This final rule does not constitute a significant FAR revision 
within the meaning of FAR 1.501 and Public Law 98-577, and publication 
for public comments is not required. However, the Councils will 
consider comments from small entities concerning the affected FAR 
Subpart 13.5 in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 610. Interested parties must 
submit such comments separately and should cite 5 U.S.C. 601, et seq. 
(FAC 2001-04, FAR case 2002-002), in correspondence.

[[Page 6115]]

C. Paperwork Reduction Act

    The Paperwork Reduction Act does not apply because the changes to 
the FAR do not impose information collection requirements that require 
the approval of the Office of Management and Budget under 44 U.S.C. 
3501, et seq.

List of Subjects in 48 CFR Part 13

    Government procurement.

    Dated: February 1, 2002.
Al Matera,
Director, Acquisition Policy Division.

    Therefore, DoD, GSA, and NASA amend 48 CFR part 13 as set forth 
below:

PART 13--SIMPLIFIED ACQUISITION PROCEDURES

    1. The authority citation for 48 CFR part 13 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c); 10 U.S.C. chapter 137; and 42 
U.S.C. 2473(c).


13.500    [Amended]

    2. Amend section 13.500 in paragraph (d) by removing ``January 1, 
2002'' and adding ``January 1, 2003'' in its place.

[FR Doc. 02-2914 Filed 2-7-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-EP-P

[Federal Register: February 8, 2002 (Volume 67, Number 27)]
[Rules and Regulations]               
[Page 6115]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr08fe02-17]                         

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

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

48 CFR Part 15

[FAC 2001-04; FAR Case 2001-013; 
Item III]
RIN 9000-AJ29

 
Federal Acquisition Regulation; Notification of Noncompliance 
With Cost Accounting Standards

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: 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 the 
requirement for a contractor to notify the contracting officer when 
there is a cost accounting standard (CAS) noncompliance that has an 
immaterial cost impact.

DATES: Effective Date: February 20, 2002.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: The FAR Secretariat, Room 4035, GS 
Building, Washington, DC, 20405, (202) 501-4755, for information 
pertaining to status or publication schedules. For clarification of 
content, contact Mr. Jeremy Olson at (202) 501-3221. Please cite FAC 
2001-04, FAR case 2001-013.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

A. Background

    Contracting officers may require submission of cost or pricing data 
in the format indicated in Table 15-2, Instructions for Submitting 
Cost/Price Proposals When Cost or Pricing Data are Required, which is 
included in FAR 15.408, Solicitation provisions and contract clauses. 
This Table requires contractors to state whether they have been 
notified that they are or may be in noncompliance with the CAS. When 
there is a noncompliance and the cognizant Federal agency official 
determines the noncompliance has an immaterial cost impact, it is not 
necessary for the contractor to notify the contracting officer because 
the noncompliance will not impact the contract price. If the 
noncompliance is not corrected and it subsequently results in 
materially increased costs to the Government, the provisions of the 
applicable CAS clauses will continue to be enforced. Since the 
notification requirement is an inefficient use of resources and may 
cause an unnecessary delay, this rule deletes it.
    This is not a significant regulatory action, and therefore, was not 
subject to review under Section 6(b) of Executive Order 12866, 
Regulatory Planning and Review, dated September 30, 1993. This rule is 
not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804.

B. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    This final rule does not constitute a significant FAR revision 
within the meaning of FAR 1.501 and Public Law 98-577, and publication 
for public comments is not required.
    However, the Councils will consider comments from small entities 
concerning the affected FAR Part 15 in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 610. 
Interested parties must submit such comments separately and should cite 
5 U.S.C. 601, et seq. (FAC 2001-04, FAR case 2001-013), in 
correspondence.

C. Paperwork Reduction Act

    The Paperwork Reduction Act does not apply because the changes to 
the FAR do not impose information collection requirements that require 
the approval of the Office of Management and Budget under 44 U.S.C. 
3501, et seq.

List of Subjects in 48 CFR Part 15

    Government procurement.

    Dated: February 1, 2002.
Al Matera,
Director, Acquisition Policy Division.
    Therefore, DoD, GSA, and NASA amend 48 CFR part 15 as set forth 
below:

    1. The authority citation for 48 CFR part 15 continues to read as 
follows:

PART 15--CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c); 10 U.S.C. chapter 137; and 42 
U.S.C. 2473(c).

    2. In section 15.408, amend Table 15-2, which follows paragraph 
(m)(4), by revising paragraph A.(8) of the General Instructions to read 
as follows:


15.408  Solicitation provisions and contract clauses.

* * * * *

Table 15-2--Instructions for Submitting Cost/Price Proposals When 
Cost or Pricing Data are Required

* * * * *

I. General Instructions

    A. * * *
    (8) Whether your organization is subject to cost accounting 
standards; whether your organization has submitted a CASB Disclosure 
Statement, and if it has been determined adequate; whether you have 
been notified that you are or may be in noncompliance with your 
Disclosure Statement or CAS (other than a noncompliance that the 
cognizant Federal agency official has determined to have an immaterial 
cost impact), and, if yes, an explanation; whether any aspect of this 
proposal is inconsistent with your disclosed practices or applicable 
CAS, and, if so, an explanation; and whether the proposal is consistent 
with your established estimating and accounting principles and 
procedures and FAR Part 31, Cost Principles, and, if not, an 
explanation;
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 02-2915 Filed 2-7-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-EP-P
[Federal Register: February 8, 2002 (Volume 67, Number 27)]
[Rules and Regulations]               
[Page 6116]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr08fe02-18]                         


[[Page 6116]]

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

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

48 CFR Parts 22 and 52

[FAC 2001-04; FAR Case 2001-017; 
Item IV]
RIN 9000-AJ13

 
Federal Acquisition Regulation; Executive Order 13204, Revocation 
of Executive Order on Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers Under 
Certain Contracts

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: 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 implement 
Executive Order (E.O.) 13204, Revocation of Executive Order on 
Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers Under Certain Contracts, signed by 
the President on February 17, 2001. The E.O. requires that any rules 
implementing E.O. 12933, Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers Under 
Certain Contracts, be promptly rescinded.

DATES: Effective Date: February 20, 2002.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: The FAR Secretariat, Room 4035, GS 
Building, Washington, DC, 20405, (202) 501-4755, for information 
pertaining to status or publication schedules. For clarification of 
content, contact Ms. Linda Nelson, Procurement Analyst, at (202) 501-
1900. Please cite FAC 2001-04, FAR case 2001-017.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

A. Background

    This final rule amends the FAR to implement Executive Order (E.O.) 
13204, Revocation of Executive Order on Nondisplacement of Qualified 
Workers Under Certain Contracts. The E.O. required the prompt recession 
of any orders, rules, regulations, guidelines, or policies implementing 
or enforcing E.O. 12933, Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers Under 
Certain Contracts, to the extent consistent with law.
    DoD, GSA, and NASA published an interim rule in the Federal 
Register at 66 FR 27416, May 16, 2001. No comments were received in 
response to the notice. The interim rule is converted to a final rule 
without change.
    This is not a significant regulatory action, and therefore, was not 
subject to review under Section 6(b) of Executive Order 12866, 
Regulatory Planning and Review, dated September 30, 1993. This rule is 
not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804.

B. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Department of Defense, the General Services Administration, and 
the National Aeronautics and Space Administration certify that this 
final rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial 
number of small entities within the meaning of the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 601, et seq., because the rule merely removes 
requirements from the FAR that implemented regulations issued by the 
Department of Labor (DoL) for which DoL certified would not have a 
significant economic effect on a substantial number of small entities 
(see Federal Register at 62 FR 28175, May 22, 1997).

C. Paperwork Reduction Act

    The Paperwork Reduction Act does not apply because the changes to 
the FAR do not impose information collection requirements that require 
the approval of the Office of Management and Budget under 44 U.S.C. 
3501, et seq.

List of Subjects in 48 CFR Parts 22 and 52

    Government procurement.

    Dated: February 1, 2002.
Al Matera,
Director, Acquisition Policy Division.

Interim Rule Adopted as Final Without Change

    Accordingly, DoD, GSA, and NASA adopt the interim rule amending 48 
CFR parts 22 and 52, which was published in the Federal Register at 66 
FR 27416, May 16, 2001, as a final rule without change.

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c); 10 U.S.C. chapter 137; and 42 
U.S.C. 2473(c).

[FR Doc. 02-2916 Filed 2-7-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-EP-P
[Federal Register: February 8, 2002 (Volume 67, Number 27)]
[Rules and Regulations]               
[Page 6116-6118]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr08fe02-19]                         

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

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

48 CFR Parts 25 and 52

[FAC 2001-04; FAR Case 2000-306; 
Item V]
RIN 9000-AJ27

 
Federal Acquisition Regulation; Caribbean Basin Country End 
Products

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

ACTION: Interim rule with request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: The Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense 
Acquisition Regulations Council (Councils) have agreed on an interim 
rule amending the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement the 
determination of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to 
extend the treatment of certain end products, from countries designated 
by the President as beneficiaries under the Caribbean Basin Economic 
Recovery Act, as eligible products under the Trade Agreements Act, with 
the exception of end products from the Dominican Republic, Honduras, 
and Panama. This rule also implements Section 211 of the United 
States--Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act and the determination of 
the USTR as to which countries qualify for the enhanced trade benefits 
under that Act.

DATES: Effective Date: February 20, 2002.
    Comment Date: Interested parties should submit comments to the FAR 
Secretariat at the address shown below on or before April 9, 2002, to 
be considered in the formulation of a final rule.

ADDRESSES: Submit written comments to: General Services Administration, 
FAR Secretariat (MVP), 1800 F Street, NW, Room 4035, Attn: Ms. Laurie 
Duarte, Washington, DC 20405.
    Submit electronic comments via the Internet to: farcase.2000-
306@gsa.gov
    Please submit comments only and cite FAC 2001-04, FAR case 2000-
306, in all correspondence related to this case.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: The FAR Secretariat, Room 4035, GS 
Building, Washington, DC 20405, (202) 501-4755, for information 
pertaining to

[[Page 6117]]

status or publication schedules. For clarification of content, contact 
Ms. Cecelia L. Davis, Procurement Analyst, at (202) 219-0202. Please 
cite FAC 2001-04, FAR case 2000-306.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

A. Background

    The USTR published a notice in the Federal Register on December 14, 
2001 (66 FR 64897), renewing the treatment of certain end products, 
from countries designated by the President as beneficiaries under the 
Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act, as eligible products under the 
Trade Agreements Act, with the exception of end products from the 
Dominican Republic, Honduras, and Panama. This rule implements that 
determination.
    This interim rule also amends the FAR to implement Section 211 of 
the United States--Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (Title II of 
Pub. L. 106-200) and the determinations of the USTR under that Act. To 
date, the USTR has published determinations in the Federal Register at 
65 FR 60236, October 10, 2000; 65 FR 69988, November 21, 2000; 66 FR 
9888, February 12, 2001, and 66 FR 31272, June 11, 2001. Section 211 
amends the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act at 19 U.S.C. 2703 to 
provide enhanced trade benefits for Caribbean Basin countries that have 
implemented and follow, or are making substantial progress toward 
implementing and following, the customs procedures required by the 
Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act. Certain products of those 
countries now qualify for duty-free treatment, so they can be treated 
as Caribbean Basin country end products. Offerors can find these 
products, and the current list of countries, in the Harmonized Tariff 
Schedule (HTS). The FAR gives information on the HTS in FAR clause 
52.225-5, Trade Agreements. The USTR notices in the Federal Register 
announced the determination that Barbados, Belize, Costa Rica, 
Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, 
Jamaica, Nicaragua, Panama, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago 
currently qualify for the enhanced trade benefits and modified the 
Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States accordingly.
    This is not a significant regulatory action and, therefore, was not 
subject to review under Section 6(b) of Executive Order 12866, 
Regulatory Planning and Review, dated September 30, 1993. This rule is 
not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804.

B. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The interim rule is not expected to have a significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities within the meaning of 
the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 601, et seq., because it only 
affects a limited number of products from a few Caribbean Basin 
countries. The Berry Amendment (formerly at 10 U.S.C. 2241, note, but 
recently enacted as 10 U.S.C. 2533a) still prohibits the Department of 
Defense from buying most of the textile and apparel articles receiving 
duty-free treatment under this Act. Therefore, an Initial Regulatory 
Flexibility Analysis has not been performed. The Councils will consider 
comments from small entities concerning the affected FAR parts in 
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 610. Interested parties must submit such 
comments separately and should cite 5 U.S.C. 601, et seq. (FAC 2001-04, 
FAR case 2000-306), in correspondence.

C. Paperwork Reduction Act

    The Paperwork Reduction Act does not apply because the changes to 
the FAR do not impose information collection requirements that require 
the approval of the Office of Management and Budget under 44 U.S.C. 
3501, et seq.

D. Determination To Issue an Interim Rule

    A determination has been made under the authority of the Secretary 
of Defense, the Administrator of General Services, and the 
Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration that 
urgent and compelling reasons exist to promulgate this interim rule 
without prior opportunity for public comment. This action is necessary 
because the determination of the USTR to provide enhanced benefits to 
the products of certain countries under the Caribbean Basin Trade 
Partnership Act became effective on October 2, 2000, and because the 
USTR reinstated the expired Caribbean Basin program on December 14, 
2001, effective immediately. However, pursuant to Public Law 98-577 and 
FAR 1.501, the Councils will consider public comments received in 
response to this interim rule in the formation of the final rule.

List of Subjects in 48 CFR Parts 25 and 52

    Government procurement.

    Dated: February 1, 2002.
Al Matera,
Director, Acquisition Policy Division.

    Therefore, DoD, GSA, and NASA amend 48 CFR parts 25 and 52 as set 
forth below:

    1. The authority citation for 48 CFR parts 25 and 52 continues to 
read as follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c); 10 U.S.C. chapter 137; and 42 
U.S.C. 2473(c).

PART 25--FOREIGN ACQUISITION

    2. Amend section 25.003 in the definition ``Caribbean Basin 
country'' by removing ``Panama,''; and by revising the definition 
``Caribbean Basin country end product'' to read as follows:


25.003    Definitions.

* * * * *
    Caribbean Basin country end product--
    (1) Means an article that--
    (i)(A) Is wholly the growth, product, or manufacture of a Caribbean 
Basin country; or
    (B) In the case of an article that consists in whole or in part of 
materials from another country, has been substantially transformed in a 
Caribbean Basin country into a new and different article of commerce 
with a name, character, or use distinct from that of the article or 
articles from which it was transformed; and
    (ii) Is not excluded from duty-free treatment for Caribbean 
countries under 19 U.S.C. 2703(b).
    (A) For this reason, the following articles are not Caribbean Basin 
country end products:
    (1) Tuna, prepared or preserved in any manner in airtight 
containers.
    (2) Petroleum, or any product derived from petroleum.
    (3) Watches and watch parts (including cases, bracelets, and 
straps) of whatever type including, but not limited to, mechanical, 
quartz digital, or quartz analog, if such watches or watch parts 
contain any material that is the product of any country to which the 
Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) column 2 rates 
of duty apply (i.e., Afghanistan, Cuba, Laos, North Korea, and 
Vietnam).
    (4) Certain of the following: textiles and apparel articles; 
footwear, handbags, luggage, flat goods, work gloves, and leather 
wearing apparel; or handloomed, handmade, and folklore articles.
    (B) Access to the HTSUS to determine duty-free status of articles 
of the types listed in paragraph (1)(ii)(A)(4) of this definition is 
available via the Internet at

[[Page 6118]]

http://www.customs.ustreas.gov/impoexpo/impoexpo.htm. In particular, 
see the following:
    (1) General Note 3(c), Products Eligible for Special Tariff 
treatment.
    (2) General Note 17, Products of Countries Designated as 
Beneficiary Countries under the United States--Caribbean Basin Trade 
Partnership Act of 2000.
    (3) Section XXII, Chapter 98, Subchapter II, Articles Exported and 
Returned, Advanced or Improved Abroad, U.S. Note 7(b).
    (4) Section XXII, Chapter 98, Subchapter XX, Goods Eligible for 
Special Tariff Benefits under the United States-Caribbean Basin Trade 
Partnership Act; and
    (2) Refers to a product offered for purchase under a supply 
contract, but for purposes of calculating the value of the acquisition, 
includes services (except transportation services) incidental to the 
article, provided that the value of those incidental services does not 
exceed that of the article itself.
* * * * *


25.400  [Amended]

    3. Amend section 25.400 in paragraph (a)(2) by removing the words 
``Republic and Honduras'' and adding ``Republic, Honduras, and 
Panama,'' in its place.


25.404  [Amended]

    4. Amend section 25.404 by removing the second and third sentences.

PART 52--SOLICITATION PROVISIONS AND CONTRACT CLAUSES

    5. Amend section 52.225-5 by--
    a. Removing ``Panama,'' from the definition ``Caribbean Basin 
country''; and
    b. Revising the definition ``Caribbean Basin country end product'' 
to read as follows:


52.225-5    Trade Agreements.

* * * * *

Trade Agreements (Feb 2002)

    (a) * * *
* * * * *
    Caribbean Basin country end product--
    (1) Means an article that--
    (i)(A) Is wholly the growth, product, or manufacture of a 
Caribbean Basin country; or
    (B) In the case of an article that consists in whole or in part 
of materials from another country, has been substantially 
transformed in a Caribbean Basin country into a new and different 
article of commerce with a name, character, or use distinct from 
that of the article or articles from which it was transformed; and
    (ii) Is not excluded from duty-free treatment for Caribbean 
countries under 19 U.S.C. 2703(b).
    (A) For this reason, the following articles are not Caribbean 
Basin country end products:
    (1) Tuna, prepared or preserved in any manner in airtight 
containers;
    (2) Petroleum, or any product derived from petroleum;
    (3) Watches and watch parts (including cases, bracelets, and 
straps) of whatever type including, but not limited to, mechanical, 
quartz digital, or quartz analog, if such watches or watch parts 
contain any material that is the product of any country to which the 
Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) column 2 
rates of duty apply (i.e., Afghanistan, Cuba, Laos, North Korea, and 
Vietnam); and
    (4) Certain of the following: textiles and apparel articles; 
footwear, handbags, luggage, flat goods, work gloves, and leather 
wearing apparel; or handloomed, handmade, and folklore articles;
    (B) Access to the HTSUS to determine duty-free status of 
articles of these types is available at http://
www.customs.ustreas.gov/impoexpo/impoexpo.htm. In particular, see 
the following:
    (1) General Note 3(c), Products Eligible for Special Tariff 
treatment.
    (2) General Note 17, Products of Countries Designated as 
Beneficiary Countries under the United States--Caribbean Basin Trade 
Partnership Act of 2000.
    (3) Section XXII, Chapter 98, Subchapter II, Articles Exported 
and Returned, Advanced or Improved Abroad, U.S. Note 7(b).
    (4) Section XXII, Chapter 98, Subchapter XX, Goods Eligible for 
Special Tariff Benefits under the United States--Caribbean Basin 
Trade Partnership Act; and
    (2) Refers to a product offered for purchase under a supply 
contract, but for purposes of calculating the value of the 
acquisition, includes services (except transportation services) 
incidental to the article, provided that the value of those 
incidental services does not exceed that of the article itself.
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 02-2917 Filed 2-7-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-EP-P
[Federal Register: February 8, 2002 (Volume 67, Number 27)]
[Rules and Regulations]               
[Page 6118-6119]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr08fe02-20]                         

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

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

48 CFR Parts 42 and 52

[FAC 2001-04; FAR Case 1999-026; 
Item VI]
RIN 9000-AI86

 
Federal Acquisition Regulation; Final Contract Voucher Submission

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: 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 explicitly state 
the right of the contracting officer to unilaterally determine the 
final contract payment amount when the contractor does not submit the 
final invoice or voucher within the time specified in the contract.

DATES: Effective Date: February 20, 2002.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: The FAR Secretariat, Room 4035, GS 
Building, Washington, DC, 20405, (202) 501-4755, for information 
pertaining to status or publication schedules. For clarification of 
content, contact Ms. Linda Klein, Procurement Analyst, at (202) 501-
3775. Please cite FAC 2001-04, FAR case 1999-026.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

A. Background

    DoD, GSA, and NASA published a proposed rule in the Federal 
Register at 65 FR 46332, July 27, 2000, with a request for comment. The 
proposed rule amended FAR 42.705, Final indirect cost rates, and FAR 
52.216-7, Allowable Cost and Payment, to--
     Explicitly state that the contracting officer may issue a 
unilateral modification that reflects the contracting officer's 
determination of the amounts due to the contractor under the contract. 
The contracting officer may make this determination if the contractor 
fails to submit a completion invoice or voucher within the time 
specified (normally 120 days after settlement of the final indirect 
cost rates but may be longer, if approved in writing by the contracting 
officer); and
     Make the contracting officer's determination not subject 
to appeal under the Disputes clause of the contract.
    Thirteen respondents submitted public comments to the proposed 
rule. The Councils considered all comments when developing the final 
rule, which was modified as a result. The following issues merit 
noting:
    1. Almost half of the respondents questioned the language in 
paragraphs 42.705(c)(2) and 52.216-7(d)(6)(ii) of the proposed rule 
that stated that the contracting officer's decision would not be 
subject to appeal under the Disputes clause. The Councils agreed that 
precluding the right to appeal is not equitable and may result in 
inaccurate financial payment decisions. The rule has been revised by 
making the contracting officer's decision final and

[[Page 6119]]

binding, but does not preclude contractor appeal under the Disputes 
clause.
    2. Several respondents disagreed with the conclusion that 
contractor failure to submit a final voucher is the leading reason 
contract closeouts are not accomplished in a timely manner. The 
Councils agreed that there are many causes for delays in contract 
closeout and that it would be helpful to list examples of circumstances 
a contracting officer should consider in deciding whether or not to 
extend the time for submission of a final voucher or to issue a final 
decision regarding final payment. The rule has been revised at 
42.705(b) by providing examples of extenuating circumstances that may 
justify the contracting officer's extension of the 120-day due date for 
submission of a completion invoice or voucher.
    3. Several respondents indicated that the rule should define when 
settlement of final indirect rates takes place. The Councils did not 
concur since the actual date of settlement depends on the circumstances 
of the negotiation. Establishing a universal definition of settlement 
date is unnecessary and would reduce the flexibility of both 
contractors and contracting officers.
    4. One respondent stated that the rule should include a provision 
requiring the contracting officer to provide written notice to the 
contractor and to provide an opportunity to respond before the issuance 
of a unilateral determination of amounts due. The Councils did not 
agree. The requirement to submit a timely final invoice is already 
stated in FAR 52.216-7, Allowable Cost and Payment. Therefore, the 
contractor is already responsible for complying with this requirement 
or communicating with the contracting officer if the requirement cannot 
be met. It is unnecessary to repeat contract requirements in separate 
notices.
    5. Several respondents requested that the rule explicitly preclude 
the application of the proposed revised closeout procedures to existing 
contracts. The Councils did not concur. Contracting officers already 
have the authority to determine final voucher payment amounts and issue 
final decisions. While the new language in this rule makes that 
authority explicit, it does not, and should not, impact the contracting 
officer's authority under existing contracts.
    This is not a significant regulatory action and, therefore, was not 
subject to review under Section 6(b) of Executive Order 12866, 
Regulatory Planning and Review, dated September 30, 1993. This rule is 
not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804.

B. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Department of Defense, the General Services Administration, and 
the National Aeronautics and Space Administration certify that this 
final rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial 
number of small entities within the meaning of the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 601, et seq., because this rule does not 
change the current policies at FAR 42.705 that require the contractor 
to submit a completion invoice or voucher within 120 days (or longer 
period, if approved in writing by the contracting officer) after 
settlement of the final indirect costs rates. The rule simply makes it 
explicit that if the contractor fails to submit the completion invoice 
or voucher within the time required, the contracting officer may 
determine the amounts due the contractor and record this determination 
in a unilateral modification.

C. Paperwork Reduction Act

    The Paperwork Reduction Act does not apply because the changes to 
the FAR do not impose information collection requirements that require 
the approval of the Office of Management and Budget under 44 U.S.C. 
3501, et seq.

List of Subjects in 48 CFR Parts 42 and 52

    Government procurement.

    Dated: February 1, 2002.
Al Matera,
Director, Acquisition Policy Division.
    Therefore, DoD, GSA, and NASA amend 48 CFR parts 42 and 52 as set 
forth below:

    1. The authority citation for 48 CFR parts 42 and 52 continues to 
read as follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c); 10 U.S.C. chapter 137; and 42 
U.S.C. 2473(c).

PART 42--CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES

    2. Amend section 42.705 by revising paragraph (b) and by adding 
paragraph (c) to read as follows:


42.705  Final indirect cost rates.

* * * * *
    (b) Within 120 days (or longer period, if approved in writing by 
the contracting officer,) after settlement of the final annual indirect 
cost rates for all years of a physically complete contract, the 
contractor must submit a completion invoice or voucher reflecting the 
settled amounts and rates. To determine whether a period longer than 
120 days is appropriate, the contracting officer should consider 
whether there are extenuating circumstances, such as the following:
    (1) Pending closeout of subcontracts awaiting Government audit.
    (2) Pending contractor, subcontractor, or Government claims.
    (3) Delays in the disposition of Government property.
    (4) Delays in contract reconciliation.
    (5) Any other pertinent factors.
    (c)(1) If the contractor fails to submit a completion invoice or 
voucher within the time specified in paragraph (b) of this section, the 
contracting officer may--
    (i) Determine the amounts due to the contractor under the contract; 
and
    (ii) Record this determination in a unilateral modification to the 
contract.
    (2) This contracting officer determination must be issued as a 
final decision in accordance with 33.211.

PART 52--SOLICITATION PROVISIONS AND CONTRACT CLAUSES

    3. Amend section 52.216-7 in paragraph (d) by redesignating 
paragraph (d)(4) as (d)(5) and paragraph (d)(5) as (d)(4), 
respectively; revising the newly designated (d)(5); adding paragraph 
(d)(6); and by amending paragraph (h)(1) by removing ``paragraph 
(d)(4)'' and adding ``paragraph (d)(5)'' in its place. The revised text 
reads as follows:


52.216-7  Allowable cost and payment

* * * * *

Allowable Cost and Payment (Feb 2002)

* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (5) Within 120 days (or longer period if approved in writing by 
the Contracting Officer) after settlement of the final annual 
indirect cost rates for all years of a physically complete contract, 
the Contractor shall submit a completion invoice or voucher to 
reflect the settled amounts and rates.
    (6)(i) If the Contractor fails to submit a completion invoice or 
voucher within the time specified in paragraph (d)(5) of this 
clause, the Contracting Officer may--
    (A) Determine the amounts due to the Contractor under the 
contract; and
    (B) Record this determination in a unilateral modification to 
the contract.
    (ii) This determination constitutes the final decision of the 
Contracting Officer in accordance with the Disputes clause.
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 02-2918 Filed 2-7-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-EP-P
[Federal Register: February 8, 2002 (Volume 67, Number 27)]
[Rules and Regulations]               
[Page 6120-6121]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr08fe02-21]                         


[[Page 6120]]

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

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

48 CFR Parts 3, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 31, 36, 42, 46, 51, and 52

[FAC 2001-04; Item VII]

 
Federal Acquisition Regulation; Technical Amendments

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: This document makes amendments to the Federal Acquisition 
Regulation in order to update references and make editorial changes.

DATES: Effective Date: February 8, 2002.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: The FAR Secretariat, Room 4035, GS 
Building, Washington, DC 20405, (202) 501-4755. Please cite FAC 2001-
04, Technical Amendments.

List of Subjects in 48 CFR Parts 3, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 31, 36, 42, 
46, 51, and 52

    Government procurement.

    Dated: February 1, 2002.
Al Matera,
Director, Acquisition Policy Division.
    Therefore, DoD, GSA, and NASA amend 48 CFR parts 3, 9, 12, 13, 14, 
15, 31, 36, 42, 46, 51, and 52 as set forth below:

    1. The authority citation for 48 CFR parts 3, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 
31, 36, 42, 46, 51, and 52 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 40 U.S.C. 486(c); 10 U.S.C. chapter 137; and 42 
U.S.C. 2473(c).

PART 3--IMPROPER BUSINESS PRACTICES AND PERSONAL CONFLICTS OF 
INTEREST


3.807  [Amended]

    2. Amend section 3.807 by removing ``3804-3408,'' and adding 
``3804-3808,'' in its place.

PART 9--CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS

    3. Amend section 9.203 by revising paragraph (c)(2) to read as 
follows:


9.203  QPL's, QML's, and QBL's.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (2) Defense Standardization Manual 4120.24-M, Appendix 2, as 
amended by Military Standards 961 and 962.
* * * * *

PART 12--ACQUISITION OF COMMERCIAL ITEMS


12.301  [Amended]

    4. Amend section 12.301 in paragraph (e)(1) by removing ``16.505'' 
and adding ``16.506'' in its place.

PART 13--SIMPLIFIED ACQUISITION PROCEDURES


13.301  [Amended]

    5. Amend section 13.301 in the first sentence of paragraph (b) by 
removing ``GSA Federal Supply Service Contract Guide for Governmentwide 
Commercial Purchase Card Service'' and adding ``current GSA credit card 
contract'' in its place.

PART 14--SEALED BIDDING


14.205-2  [Amended]

    6. Amend section 14.205-2 in paragraph (b) by adding ``or 
suspended'' after the word ``debarred''.


14.409-1  [Amended]

    7. Amend section 14.409-1 in the introductory text of paragraph 
(a)(2) by removing ``(see 25.408(a)(4)),'' and adding ``(see 
25.408(a)(5)),'' in its place.

PART 15--CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION


15.404-4  [Amended]

    8. Amend section 15.404-4 in the introductory text of paragraph 
(c)(4)(i) by removing ``10 U.S.C. 2306(e)'' and adding ``10 U.S.C. 
2306(d)'' in its place.

PART 31--CONTRACT COST PRINCIPLES AND PROCEDURES

    9. Revise section 31.002 to read as follows:


31.002  Availability of accounting guide.

    Contractors needing assistance in developing or improving their 
accounting systems and procedures may request a copy of the Defense 
Contract Audit Agency Pamphlet No. 7641.90, Information for 
Contractors. The pamphlet is available via the Internet at http://
www.dcaa.mil.


31.205-17  [Amended]

    10. Amend section 31.205-17 by designating the undesignated 
introductory paragraph as ``(a) Definitions.''; and in the definition 
``Idle facilities'' by redesignating paragraphs (1), (i), (ii), (2), 
and (3) as (b), (b)(1), (b)(2), (c), and (d), respectively.

PART 36--CONSTRUCTION AND ARCHITECT-ENGINEER CONTRACTS


36.606  [Amended]

    11. Amend section 36.606 in the first sentence of paragraph (f) by 
removing ``best and final offer'' and adding ``final proposal 
revision'' in its place.

PART 42--CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES

    12. Amend section 42.705-1 by revising paragraph (b)(1) to read as 
follows:


42.705-1  Contracting officer determination procedure.

* * * * *
    (b) Procedures. (1) In accordance with the Allowable Cost and 
Payment clause at 52.216-7 or 52.216-13, the contractor shall submit to 
the contracting officer (or cognizant Federal agency official) and to 
the cognizant auditor a final indirect cost rate proposal. The required 
content of the proposal and supporting data will vary depending on such 
factors as business type, size, and accounting system capabilities. The 
contractor, contracting officer, and auditor must work together to make 
the proposal, audit, and negotiation process as efficient as possible. 
Accordingly, each contractor shall submit an adequate proposal to the 
contracting officer (or cognizant Federal agency official) and auditor 
within the 6-month period following the expiration of each of its 
fiscal years. Reasonable extensions, for exceptional circumstances 
only, may be requested in writing by the contractor and granted in 
writing by the contracting officer. A contractor shall support its 
proposal with adequate supporting data. For guidance on what generally 
constitutes an adequate final indirect cost rate proposal and 
supporting data, contractors should refer to the Model Incurred Cost 
Proposal in Chapter 6 of the Defense Contract Audit Agency Pamphlet No. 
7641.90, Information for Contractors, available via the Internet at 
http://www.dcaa.mil.
* * * * *

PART 46--QUALITY ASSURANCE

    13. Amend section 46.202-4 by revising the last sentence of 
paragraph (b) to read as follows:


46.202-4  Higher-level contract quality requirements.

* * * * *
    (b) * * * Examples of higher-level quality standards are ISO 9001, 
9002, or 9003; ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001-2000;

[[Page 6121]]

ANSI/ASQC Q9001, Q9002, or Q9003; QS-9000; AS-9000; ANSI/ASQC E4; and 
ANSI/ASME NQA-1.

PART 51--CONTRACTOR USE OF GOVERNMENT SUPPLY SOURCES


51.101  [Amended]

    14. Amend section 51.101 in paragraph (b) by removing ``(see 41 CFR 
101-26.407)'' and adding ``(see 41 CFR 101-26.507)'' in its place.

PART 52--SOLICITATION PROVISIONS AND CONTRACT CLAUSES

    15. Amend section 52.212-3 by--
    a. Revising the date of the provision;
    b. Removing the reference ``(c)(7)(i)'' from paragraph (c)(9)(ii) 
and adding ``(c)(9)(i)'' in its place;
    c. Revising paragraph (h); and
    d. Removing from Alternate I ``(Oct 2000)'' and adding ``(Feb 
2002)'' in its place; and by removing ``(c)(2)'' from paragraph (10) of 
Alternate I and adding ``(c)(4)'' in its place. The revised text reads 
as follows:


52.212-3  Offeror Representations and Certifications--Commercial Items.

* * * * *

Offeror Representations and Certifications--Commercial Items (Feb 
2002)

* * * * *
    (h) Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension or Ineligibility 
for Award (Executive Order 12549). (Applies only if the contract value 
is expected to exceed the simplified acquisition threshold.) The 
offeror certifies, to the best of its knowledge and belief, that the 
offeror and/or any of its principals--
    (1) [  ] Are, [  ] are not presently debarred, suspended, proposed 
for debarment, or declared ineligible for the award of contracts by any 
Federal agency; and
    (2) [  ] Have, [  ] have not, within a three-year period preceding 
this offer, been convicted of or had a civil judgment rendered against 
them for: Commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with 
obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a Federal, state or 
local government contract or subcontract; violation of Federal or state 
antitrust statutes relating to the submission of offers; or Commission 
of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction 
of records, making false statements, tax evasion, or receiving stolen 
property; and
    (3) [  ] Are, [  ] are not presently indicted for, or otherwise 
criminally or civilly charged by a Government entity with, commission 
of any of these offenses.
* * * * *

    16. Amend section 52.213-4 by revising paragraph (a)(2)(vi); and in 
paragraph (b)(1)(viii), by removing ``(Jan 2001)'' and adding ``(Dec 
2001)'' in its place. The revised text reads as follows:


52.213-4  Terms and Conditions--Simplified Acquisitions (Other Than 
Commercial Items).

* * * * *

Terms and Conditions--Simplified Acquisitions (Other Than 
Commercial Items) (Feb 2002)

    (a) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (vi) 52.244-6, Subcontracts for Commercial Items (Dec 2001).
* * * * *


52.219-21  [Amended]

    17. Amend section 52.219-21 in the prescription by removing 
``19.1007(c)'' and adding ``19.1008(c)'' in its place.


52.222-44  [Amended]

    18. Amend section 52.222-44 by revising the date of the clause to 
read ``(Feb 2002)''; and in paragraph (d) by removing ``paragraph (b)'' 
and adding ``paragraph (c)'' in its place.

[FR Doc. 02-2919 Filed 2-7-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-EP-P
[Federal Register: February 8, 2002 (Volume 67, Number 27)]
[Rules and Regulations]               
[Page 6121-6122]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr08fe02-22]                         

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

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

48 CFR Chapter 1

 
Federal Acquisition Regulation; Small Entity Compliance Guide

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

ACTION: Small Entity Compliance Guide.

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

SUMMARY: 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 (Public Law 104-121). It consists of a summary of rules 
appearing in Federal Acquisition Circular (FAC) 2001-04 which amend the 
FAR. An asterisk (*) next to a rule indicates that a regulatory 
flexibility analysis has been prepared in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 604. 
Interested parties may obtain further information regarding these rules 
by referring to FAC 2001-04 which precedes this document. These 
documents are also available via the Internet at http://www.arnet.gov/
far.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Laurie Duarte, FAR Secretariat, (202) 
501-4225. For clarification of content, contact the analyst whose name 
appears in the table below.

                      List of Rules in FAC 2001-04
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Item                Subject          FAR case        Analyst
------------------------------------------------------------------------
I.................  Definitions for          2000-404  DeStefano.
                     Classified
                     Acquisitions.
II................  Special Simplified       2002-002  Moss.
                     Procedures for
                     Purchases of
                     Commercial Items in
                     Excess of the
                     Simplified
                     Acquisition
                     Threshold.
III...............  Notification of          2001-013  Olson.
                     Noncompliance with
                     Cost Accounting
                     Standards.
IV................  Executive Order          2001-017  Nelson.
                     13204, Revocation
                     of Executive Order
                     on Nondisplacement
                     of Qualified
                     Workers Under
                     Certain Contracts.
V.................  Caribbean Basin          2000-306  Davis.
                     Country End
                     Products.
VI................  Final Contract           1999-026  Klein.
                     Voucher Submission.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 6122]]

VII Technical Amendments

Item I--Definitions for Classified Acquisitions (FAR Case 2000-404)

    This final rule amends the FAR to clarify definitions that are used 
for classified procurements. The final rule--
     Moves the definitions of ``classified acquisition,'' 
``classified contract,'' and ``classified information'' from FAR 4.401 
to FAR 2.101, because the definitions apply to more than one FAR part;
     Amends those definitions in accordance for clarity;
     Amends the definition of ``classified information'' to 
reflect classification of privately generated restricted data in 
accordance with Department of Energy regulations; and
     Amends the policy regarding bid openings for classified 
acquisitions at FAR 14.402-2 for clarity.

Item II--Special Simplified Procedures for Purchases of Commercial 
Items in Excess of the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (FAR Case 
2002-002)

    This rule amends FAR Subpart 13.5 to implement Section 823 of the 
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2002 (Pub. L. 107-
107). Section 823 amends Section 4202(e) of the Clinger-Cohen Act of 
1996 (Divisions D and E of Pub. L. 104-106; 110 Stat. 654; 10 U.S.C. 
2304 note) to extend, through January 1, 2003, the expiration of the 
test of special simplified procedures for purchases of commercial items 
greater than the simplified acquisition threshold, but not exceeding 
$5,000,000.

Item III--Notification of Noncompliance with Cost Accounting 
Standards (FAR Case 2001-013)

    This final rule amends Table 15-2, Instructions for Submitting 
Cost/Price Proposals When Cost or Pricing Data are Required, located at 
FAR 15.4, Contract pricing. The rule removes the requirement for a 
contractor to notify the contracting officer when there is a 
noncompliance that has an immaterial cost impact. The rule affects 
contracting officers that require cost or pricing data on cost 
accounting standard-covered contracts.

Item IV--Executive Order 13204, Revocation of Executive Order on 
Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers Under Certain Contracts (FAR 
Case 2001-017)

    The interim rule published in the Federal Register at 66 FR 27416, 
May 16, 2001, is converted to a final rule without change. This rule 
finalizes the implementation of Executive Order (E.O.) 13204, 
Revocation of Executive Order on Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers 
Under Certain Contracts, signed by the President on February 17, 2001. 
The E.O. requires that any rules implementing E.O. 12933, 
Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers Under Certain Contracts, be 
promptly rescinded. As a result, Subpart 22.12 and the clause at 
52.222-50 was removed and reserved. The clause at 52.212-5 was amended 
by revising the date and removing paragraph (c)(6). Contracting 
officers should not take any action on any complaint filed under former 
FAR Subpart 22.12.

Item V--Caribbean Basin Country End Products (FAR Case 2000-306)

    This interim rule amends FAR 25.003, 25.400, 25.404, and the clause 
at 52.225-5, Trade Agreements, to implement the determination of the 
United States Trade Representative (USTR) to renew the treatment of 
Caribbean Basin country end products as eligible products under the 
Trade Agreements Act (TAA), with the exception of end products from the 
Dominican Republic, Honduras, and Panama. This rule applies only if an 
acquisition is subject to the TAA (see FAR 25.403). The Dominican 
Republic and Honduras were already removed from the definition of 
Caribbean Basin countries in FAC 97-17, FAR case 2000-003, published in 
the Federal Register at 65 FR 24321, April 25, 2000. This rule now 
removes Panama. Offers of end products from these countries are no 
longer acceptable under acquisitions subject to the TAA unless the 
contracting officer does not receive any offers of U.S.-made end 
products or eligible products (designated, Caribbean Basin, or NAFTA 
country end products).
    This interim rule also amends the definition of ``Caribbean Basin 
country end product'' at FAR 25.003 and in the clause at 52.225-5, 
Trade Agreements, to implement Section 211 of the United States--
Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act and the determinations of the 
USTR as to which countries qualify for the enhanced trade benefits 
under that Act. Offerors of end products from the Caribbean Basin must 
understand the revised definition in order to certify whether the 
products that they are offering qualify as Caribbean Basin country end 
products. The definition of ``Caribbean Basin country end product'' 
excludes products that do not qualify for duty-free treatment. 
Information provided in this rule helps offerors determine the duty-
free status of a product by review of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of 
the United States.

Item VI--Final Contract Voucher Submission (FAR Case 1999-026)

    This final rule amends FAR 42.705, Final indirect cost rates, and 
FAR 52.216-7, Allowable Cost and Payment, to explicitly state the right 
of the contracting officer to unilaterally determine the final contract 
payment amount when the contractor does not submit the final invoice or 
voucher within the time specified in the contract. The rule is 
applicable to contracting officers that administer contract closeout 
procedures.

Item VII--Technical Amendments

    These amendments update sections and make editorial changes at 
sections 3.807, 9.203, 12.301, 13.301, 14.205-2, 14.409-1, 15.404-4, 
31.002, 31.205-17, 36.606, 42.705-1, 46.202-4, 51.101, 52.212-3, 
52.213-4, 52.219-21, and 52.222-44.

    Dated: February 1, 2002.
Al Matera,
Director, Acquisition Policy Division.
[FR Doc. 02-2920 Filed 2-7-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-EP-P