[Federal Register Volume 75, Number 167 (Monday, August 30, 2010)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 53135-53153]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-21026]


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DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

48 CFR Parts 2, 4, 12, 14, 15, 16, 19, 27, 30, 31, 32, 42, 44, 49, 
and 52

[FAC 2005-45; FAR Case 2005-036; Item II; Docket 2007-0001, Sequence 
15]
RIN 9000-AK74


Federal Acquisition Regulation; Definition of Cost or Pricing 
Data

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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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 clarify the 
distinction between ``certified cost or pricing data'' and ``data other 
than certified cost or pricing data'', and to clarify requirements for 
submission of cost or pricing data.

DATES: Effective Date: October 1, 2010.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For clarification of content, contact 
Mr. Edward N. Chambers, Procurement Analyst, at (202) 501-3221. For 
information pertaining to status or publication schedules, contact the 
Regulatory Secretariat at (202) 501-4755. Please cite FAC 2005-45, FAR 
case 2005-036.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

A. Background

    Subpart 15.4 of the FAR describes the contracting officer's 
responsibility to purchase supplies and services at fair and reasonable 
prices and the use of data and information in meeting this requirement. 
This subpart incorporates the requirements of the Truth In Negotiations 
Act (TINA), 10 U.S.C. 2306a and 41 U.S.C. 254b, which address the 
requirements for the submission of cost or pricing data and the 
circumstances under which a contractor must certify to their accuracy, 
completeness, and currency.
    The Councils believe that the implementation of TINA in FAR subpart 
15.4 is not sufficiently clear. In particular, there is confusion 
regarding the right of the Government to request ``data other than 
certified cost or pricing data,'' the obligation of the offeror to 
provide this data, and the definition of this term.
    This lack of clarity is due, in large part, to definitions that 
overlap and are not identical to TINA. For example, the term ``cost or 
pricing data'' is defined in the FAR to mean certified cost or pricing 
data, whereas TINA does not make certification part of the definition 
of this term. This regulatory refinement has led to confusion regarding 
the level of information that a contracting officer may request to 
establish fair and reasonable pricing including a misunderstanding by 
some that the data elements that comprise cost or pricing data cannot 
be requested by the Government unless the data are required by law to 
be submitted to the contracting officer in a certified form. This 
confusion has been exacerbated by the FAR's use of the phrase 
``information other than cost or pricing data,'' which has made it 
difficult for contracting officers to understand the circumstances when 
data other than certified cost or pricing data should be obtained to 
protect the Government from paying unreasonable prices.
    Even the basic articulation of policy regarding the use of data to 
establish the fairness and reasonableness of offered prices in the 
introductory paragraph of FAR 15.402(a) has lacked a certain level of 
clarity that creates uncertainty. For many years, this paragraph has 
appropriately cautioned contracting officers not to obtain more 
information than is necessary--and the FAR must continue to do so. 
However this paragraph should also, but currently does not, expressly 
mention the underlying statutory authority to collect ``data other than 
certified cost or pricing data.'' Because of this omission, some 
contracting officers may be under the misperception that there is a 
greater responsibility to avoid asking unnecessarily for the submission 
of cost or pricing data than there is, in the first instance, to 
determine whether and how much of this data may be required, in a given 
case, to establish price fairness and reasonableness. In fact, both 
responsibilities--i.e., obtaining data that are adequate for evaluating 
the reasonableness of the price and taking appropriate care not to ask 
for more data than is necessary--are inextricably interrelated and 
equally important. As such, the FAR needs to communicate this message 
more clearly.
    DoD, GSA, and NASA published a proposed rule in the Federal 
Register at 72 FR 20092, April 23, 2007, to revise the FAR definition 
of ``cost or pricing data''; change the term ``information other than 
cost or pricing data'' to ``data other than certified cost or pricing 
data''; add a definition of ``certified cost or pricing data'' to make 
the terms and definitions consistent with TINA and more understandable 
to the general reader; change terminology throughout the FAR; and 
clarify the need for contracting officers to obtain ``data other than 
certified cost or pricing data'' when there is no other means to 
determine fair and reasonable pricing during price analysis.
    Based on comments received on the proposed rule, a public meeting 
held on November 1, 2007, and additional deliberations (which are all 
discussed in greater detail below), the Councils have adopted a final 
rule that--
     Clarifies terminology used in the FAR to make it 
consistent with TINA, resulting in (i) refinements to the regulatory 
definition of cost or pricing data, (ii) the addition of a definition 
for ``certified cost or pricing data,'' (iii) the addition of a 
definition for ``data other than certified cost or pricing data,'' and

[[Page 53136]]

(iv) deletion of the phrase ``information other than cost or pricing 
data'';
     Clarifies responsibilities regarding the request for, and 
submission of, ``data other than certified cost or pricing data'' to 
establish fair and reasonable pricing, both in the case when 
``certified cost or pricing data'' is required and is not required;
     Retains the current order of preference for determining 
the type of cost or pricing data required to establish fair and 
reasonable prices when certified cost or pricing data are not required;
     Retains and reinforces important statements to explain why 
contracting officers must not require, unnecessarily, the submission of 
``data other than certified cost or pricing data'';
     Clarifies the instructions for offerors preparing a 
contract pricing proposal when cost or pricing data are required so 
that such instructions are consistent with the clarified terminology 
and policies for determining the type and quantity of data necessary to 
establish a fair and reasonable price; and
     Supplements existing coverage to clarify current coverage 
and achieve greater understanding by contracting officers and 
contractors.
    This rule neither expands nor diminishes the existing rights of 
contracting officers to request cost or pricing data (whether certified 
or other than certified) or other information, or the existing 
responsibilities of the offeror to submit such data or other 
information. Similarly, the rule does not require, encourage, or 
authorize contracting officers to obtain cost or pricing data or other 
information unless it is needed to determine that prices offered are 
fair and reasonable, which may include the request for such data in 
connection with a cost realism analysis. As the rule explains, 
requiring contractors to submit more data than what is needed can 
``lead to increased proposal preparation costs, generally extend 
acquisition lead time, and consume additional contractor and Government 
resources.''
    Whether a contractor must submit ``certified cost or pricing data'' 
is based on the requirements of TINA and its stated exceptions. With 
respect to ``data other than certified cost or pricing data,'' the 
introductory policy statement in FAR 15.402(a) has been clarified to 
tie together the contracting officer's longstanding statutory 
responsibility to request the data and information necessary to 
establish a fair and reasonable price--as stated in TINA at 10 U.S.C. 
2306a(d)(1) and 41 U.S.C. 254b(d)(1)--with the caution that, in doing 
so, the contracting officer must not request more data than is 
necessary. By doing so, the FAR will provide a more complete 
articulation of the policy underlying the use of ``data other than 
certified cost or pricing data'' in establishing price fairness and 
reasonableness, in furtherance of the contracting officer's duty to 
serve as a responsible steward of the taxpayer's resources.

B. Public Comments

    The first comment period closed on June 22, 2007. Comments were 
received from 11 respondents. As a result of the comments received, a 
public meeting was scheduled with notice provided at 72 FR 61854 on 
November 1, 2007. The public meeting was held on November 15, 2007, and 
was followed by a one week period for submission of additional 
comments. Several respondents submitted additional comments. The public 
comments are addressed in the following analysis:

General Comments

    Some respondents noted that the proposed changes should alleviate 
confusion. Others raised the following general concerns regarding 
various aspects of the proposed rule.
    1. Some respondents were concerned that the proposed rule will 
result in contracting officers by-passing normal market research and 
pricing techniques and require contractors to submit full cost or 
pricing data as if the Truth in Negotiations Act (TINA) applied.
    Response: The current FAR, as well as the proposed and final rule, 
protect against this practice. Contracting officers must generally 
follow the order of preference at FAR 15.402, and are required by that 
section to ``obtain the type and quantity of data necessary to 
establish a fair and reasonable price, but not more data than is 
necessary.'' In theory, this could include all of the elements 
prescribed under FAR 15.408, Table 15-2. However, in most cases the 
data necessary for a contracting officer to determine cost fairness and 
reasonableness, or cost realism, will fall short of this level of data. 
The rule should not result in contracting officers requiring 
contractors to submit full cost or pricing data as if certification 
will be required when it is not necessary.
    2. Public comments did point out an error where the proposed rule 
changed the FAR to require certified cost or pricing data ``and'' data 
other than certified cost or pricing data.
    Response: The final rule corrects several instances where ``and'' 
was incorrectly used, replacing it with ``or''. However, there are 
circumstances where ``and'' is appropriate and those have been 
retained. The final rule recognizes that the contracting officer may 
need to request data other than certified cost or pricing data, in 
addition to certified cost or pricing data, to establish fair and 
reasonable pricing.
    3. Some respondents were concerned about the broadening of the 
definition of ``information other than cost or pricing data'' by adding 
the words ``and judgmental information.''
    Response: Data used to support an offer will necessarily contain 
some information that is non-factual, i.e., judgmental information. Due 
to its nature, judgmental information cannot be certified. Even in 
situations where ``certified cost or pricing data'' are required, 
judgmental information is not certified, and it is part of ``data other 
than certified cost or pricing data'' that supplements certified cost 
or pricing data. The final rule deletes the phrase ``information other 
than cost or pricing data,'' but includes ``judgmental information'' 
and ``judgmental factors'' in the definition of ``data other than 
certified cost or pricing data.'' The final rule also includes 
additional language to provide consistency with FAR 15.408, Table 15-2 
(i.e., any information reasonably required to explain the estimating 
process, including the judgmental factors applied and the mathematical 
or other methods used in the estimate, including those used in 
projecting from known data; and the nature and amount of any 
contingencies included in the proposed price). Aligning the definition 
of ``data other than certified cost or pricing data'' and the text of 
the language in FAR 15.408, Table 15-2, keeps the definition consistent 
with the current FAR requirements and TINA. The Councils note that the 
existence of a judgment is factual, but the nature and amount of the 
judgment are not.
    4. Many respondents were concerned that the proposed rule 
inappropriately adds the phrase ``data other than certified cost or 
pricing data'' throughout the proposed rule when only certified cost or 
pricing data apply.
    Response: The final rule deletes that addition in some instances. 
There are other instances where both phrases: ``Certified cost or 
pricing data'' and ``data other than certified cost or pricing data'' 
are applicable. See the response to General Comments number 2.
    5. Several respondents were concerned that offerors of commercial 
items would be required to submit cost data in all instances.
    Response: Such an outcome would be contrary to the intent of the 
rule, which does not alter the current intent of the

[[Page 53137]]

FAR regarding the type and quantity of data to determine if the price 
of a commercial item is fair and reasonable. FAR 15.403-1(c)(3) 
specifically exempts commercial items from certified cost or pricing 
data requirements, and this rule does not change that exception. Also, 
FAR 15.403-3(c)(2) sets limitations on the type of cost data or pricing 
data that can be requested regarding commercial items. When contracting 
officers determine that they can use price analysis to determine the 
price to be fair and reasonable, the order of preference at FAR 15.402 
means cost data will generally not be obtained for pricing commercial 
items. Contracting officers are to obtain only that information needed 
to determine a fair and reasonable price, which, in some cases, may 
include contractor cost data (without certification) for commercial 
items.

Specific Comments

    1. Comment: Add a definition of ``cost data,'' which is referenced 
at FAR 15.402(a)(2)(ii).
    Response: We do not believe a separate definition is required. The 
revised definition of ``data other than certified cost or pricing 
data'' and the existing definition of ``information other than cost or 
pricing data'' both encompass cost data and pricing data depending on 
what is needed by the contracting officer, using the order of 
preference at FAR 15.402(a). The definition simply breaks out various 
aspects of ``data other than certified cost or pricing data.'' The cost 
data refers to data related to a contractor's costs.
    2. Comment: Separate enumeration of ``cost or pricing data'' in FAR 
4.803(a)(17)(i) ``Content of Contract Files'' is unnecessary because it 
is repetitive with existing definitions in FAR 2.101.
    Response: The final rule revises FAR 4.803(a)(17)(i) to read 
``certified cost or pricing data'' consistent with the revised 
definition. The requirement at FAR 4.803(a)(17) is for documenting the 
contract file for the contracting officer's determination of a fair and 
reasonable price, and lists the types of data that should be 
maintained. ``Certified cost or pricing data'' includes all data that 
conforms to FAR 15.408, Table 15-2, while ``data other than certified 
cost or pricing data'' includes only the level of data the contracting 
officer needs to determine the price fair and reasonable. Whichever is 
required to be submitted, this section makes it clear that it shall be 
documented in the contract file.
    3. Comment: FAR 13.106-3(a)(2)(iii) contradicts FAR 15.404-
1(b)(2)(iv) as FAR 13.106-3(a)(2)(iii) appears to indicate non-
acceptability of price lists and catalogs as a price analysis stand 
alone technique.
    Response: Neither of the referenced texts is part of this 
rulemaking. Nonetheless, we note that the references do not conflict. 
Both references list various techniques and types of information the 
contracting officer may use, either individually or collectively. The 
type and extent of data needed is based on the contracting officer's 
business judgment. FAR 13.106-3(a)(2)(iii) simply adds a cautionary 
note when using catalog prices.
    4. Comment: Change language in the proposed FAR 15.403-3(a)(1)(ii) 
from ``If the contracting officer cannot obtain adequate data from 
sources other than the offeror, the contracting officer shall require'' 
to ``If the contracting officer determines that adequate data from 
sources other than the offeror is not available, the contracting 
officer shall require.''
    Response: We concur that the contracting officer should determine 
when adequate data is not available and have clarified the final rule 
accordingly. However, ``data'' is plural and requires the verb ``are 
available'' rather than ``is available''.
    5. Comment: The new language at FAR 15.404-1(b) confuses the 
difference between cost analysis and price analysis when it states that 
``Price analysis may include evaluating data other than certified cost 
or pricing data obtained from the offeror or contractor when there is 
no other means for determining a fair and reasonable price.'' Price 
analysis should only be applied to sales data obtained from the 
offeror.
    Response: The referenced paragraph is a discussion of ``price'' 
analysis. The referenced text simply points out that in performing 
price analysis, the contracting officer may require data other than 
certified cost or pricing data. Price analysis is not limited to sales 
data.
    6. Comment: Language at FAR 15.404-1(b)(2)(ii) needs clarification.
    Response: Changes have been made to FAR 15.404-1(b)(2)(ii) to 
clarify the text.
    7. Comment: In reference to FAR 15.408, Table 15-2, changing the 
word ``information'' to the phrase ``data other than certified cost or 
pricing data'' means that the contractor does not have to certify all 
the cost or pricing data. Changing these terms is changing the 
requirement under TINA.
    Response: The final rule utilizes the term ``information'' in a few 
instances, not as a term of art as it had been used in FAR part 15 
prior to this revision, but generically. The requirements under TINA 
have not been changed.
    8. Comment: The proposed language that adds ``certified cost or 
pricing data and data other than certified cost or pricing data'' at 
FAR 15.408, Table 15-2, means that the offeror could withhold 
disclosure or certification of cost or pricing data related to its 
subcontractors, in cases when the subcontractor is not required to 
certify.
    Response: When ``certified cost or pricing data'' is required, the 
prime contractor is responsible for certifying the completeness of all 
cost or pricing data, which includes subcontractor price quotes and 
cost data when the subcontractor is not required to certify to its 
data. The requirement for the prime contractor to certify that it has 
submitted all of the facts regarding subcontractor cost data or pricing 
data, even if the subcontractor is not required to submit ``certified 
cost or pricing data,'' is implicitly in the certification language at 
FAR 15.406-2(a).
    9. Comment: Throughout the proposed rule, including the clauses, 
change ``required certified cost or pricing data and data other than 
certified cost or pricing data'' back to ``required certified cost or 
pricing data, or data other than certified cost or pricing data.''
    Response: The phrases ``certified cost or pricing data'' and ``data 
other than certified cost or pricing data'' are joined with ``and'' 
when they are used to refer to both types of data collectively. The 
phrases are joined with ``or'' when the phrases are used to refer to 
either one or the other type of data. See the response to General 
Comments number 2.
    10. Comment: FAR 52.214-26, Audit and Records--Sealed Bidding, 
expand the Government's rights by allowing the Government to audit and 
review the contractor's records when certified cost or pricing data are 
not required. There is no authority to do this.
    Response: This change was in error and the final rule deletes that 
addition.
    11. Comment: The proposed rule inappropriately adds the phrase 
``data other than certified cost or pricing data'' to clauses and FAR 
15.408, Table 15-2, when only certified cost or pricing data apply.
    Response: The final rule adds clarifying language to indicate that, 
when certified cost or pricing data is required, data other than 
certified cost or pricing data may also be required. See the responses 
to General Comments numbers 2 and 4, and Specific Comments number 9.
    12. Comment: Why is Alternate I of FAR 52.215-21(b) marked 
reserved? It shouldn't be.

[[Page 53138]]

    Response: The final rule retains Alternate I.
    13. Comment: The Councils are inappropriately prescribing the use 
of FAR 15.408, Table 15-2, for both ``certified cost or pricing data'' 
and ``data other than certified cost or pricing data''. By doing so, 
the Councils are advocating cost analysis on commercial items.
    Response: This comment is similar to the Specific Comments numbers 
7 and 9. The language in the table and clauses is revised in the final 
rule. FAR 15.408, Table 15-2, applies only when certified cost or 
pricing data are required. However, when certified cost or pricing data 
are required, data other than certified cost or pricing data may also 
be required. Additionally, cost analysis can be used when an item that 
was thought initially to be commercial is found not to have sufficient 
sales data or other information for determining the price to be fair 
and reasonable. In each situation, and in accordance with FAR 1.602-2, 
the contracting officer must exercise business judgment as to the level 
and type of data needed to determine that prices are fair and 
reasonable following the order of preference at FAR 15.402(a). See the 
responses to General Comments numbers 2 and 4, and to Specific Comments 
numbers 7 and 9.
    14. Comment: The rule will not address situations when a 
contracting officer inappropriately determines an item to be 
commercial.
    Response: Commercial item determinations are beyond the scope of 
this rule. This rule is to clarify what data are needed to determine 
whether prices are fair and reasonable as required by FAR part 15. The 
procedures for making the determination under FAR part 12 are outside 
the scope of this rule about the definitions of phrases associated with 
cost or pricing data, and the requirements for their submission.
    15. Comment: Cost data should only be used when there are no other 
means to determine whether price is fair and reasonable.
    Response: The order of preference at FAR 15.402(a) has been 
restructured, but is essentially unchanged. Certified cost or pricing 
data must be obtained when required by TINA. When certified cost or 
pricing data are not required, the order of preference at FAR 15.402(a) 
must generally be followed.
    16. Comment: Contracting officers should never have to rely on cost 
data from the offeror to determine if the price for a commercial item 
is fair and reasonable.
    Response: The contracting officer retains the authority to request 
cost data where other information, including pricing data, is either 
unavailable or inadequate to establish that prices offered for a 
commercial item are fair and reasonable. However, the FAR policy is to 
only require submission of ``data other than certified cost or pricing 
data,'' and only to the extent necessary to support the contracting 
officer's determination of a fair and reasonable price.
    17. Comment: The proposed rule demands that the contracting officer 
obtains additional data (and ``all facts'') regardless of needs and 
reverses the presumption of the present FAR, which asserts that the 
contracting officer should not obtain more information than needed. The 
proposed rule requires greatly increased amounts of information even 
where certified cost or pricing data is not required. This is contrary 
to the language of the statute (TINA).
    Response: The language in FAR 15.402(a); FAR 15.408, FAR Table 15-
2; and the clauses are revised in the final rule. When certified cost 
or pricing data are required, data other than certified cost or pricing 
data may also be required. The contracting officer is cautioned to 
obtain data other than certified cost or pricing as necessary to 
establish a fair and reasonable price. See section A, Background; see 
also the responses to the Specific Comments numbers 7, 9, and 16.
    18. Comment: The proposed FAR 15.403-3(c)(1) implies that 
contractors face vague and unbounded disclosure obligations (i.e., 
``cost data, or any other information the contracting officer 
requires'' and ``at a minimum, appropriate data on * * * prices'') that 
likely will be highly varied in application to different procurements. 
This costly burden is unnecessary--certainly where it applies to exempt 
procurements, e.g., commercial items. Proposed changes conflict with 
TINA.
    Response: TINA and the existing FAR permit a contracting officer to 
obtain all data that is needed, in the contracting officer's discretion 
(which may vary among contracting officers), to determine the price to 
be fair and reasonable. See the order of preference at FAR 15.402(a), 
Pricing Policy. The present rule does not change that. The intent is to 
leave latitude for contracting officers to exercise business judgment 
(FAR 1.602-2) in obtaining whatever data are required in order to be 
able to determine a price fair and reasonable, following the order of 
preference at FAR 15.402(a). No negotiated procurements, including 
procurements of commercial items, are ``exempt'' from a contracting 
officer requiring submission of data other than certified cost or 
pricing data when it is needed to determine a fair and reasonable 
price. The proposed rule is consistent with the existing FAR, the 
requirements of TINA, the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act of 1994 
(Pub. L. 103-355), and the Clinger Cohen Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-106). 
It does not add any requirements that do not already exist in the 
statutes and FAR. See the response to Specific Comments number 16.
    19. Comment: The proposed rule adds the requirement that price be 
``fair'' and ``reasonable'' in circumstances where the previous FAR 
required only demonstration of price ``reasonableness.''
    Response: Under the existing FAR, the contracting officer must 
determine prices to be fair and reasonable (see FAR 15.402(a)). The 
final rule makes no changes to this basic policy.
    20. Comment: The proposed rule also obligates the contracting 
officer to require submission of ``data other than certified cost or 
pricing data.'' This is a profound change because the contractor must 
submit both certified cost or pricing data and something else.
    Response: See section A, Background. Also, see responses to 
Specific Comments numbers 7, 9, and 11.
    21. Comment: The proposed rule at FAR 15.404-1(b)(1) adds a new 
term, ``price or cost data.'' What is ``price or cost data?''
    Response: The language has been removed. The final rule clarifies 
the language at FAR 15.404-1(b) to correct ``price or cost data'' to 
``data other than certified cost or pricing data''.
    22. Comment: What is ``commercial item analysis'' at FAR 15.404-
1(b)?
    Response: The phrase has been deleted.
    23. Comment: The proposed rule at FAR 15.404-1(b)(2)(ii) creates 
extensive additional disclosure requirements, which affect the 
eligibility for the ``commercial item'' exemption. These include very 
particular demands concerning ``prior price,'' ``terms and 
conditions,'' ``market and economic factors,'' ``differences between 
the similar item and the item being procured'' and encouragement to use 
expert technical advice to evaluate ``minor modifications.'' The effect 
of these requirements is to reduce the availability and utility of the 
``commercial item'' exception and to create, again, a whole class of 
``surrogate'' data that is uncertified but nevertheless burdensome and 
expensive to produce.
    Response: The contracting officer must be able to determine that 
the price is fair and reasonable. The fair and reasonable price can be 
the commercial

[[Page 53139]]

price. To the extent there are sufficient commercial sales of the item 
being procured for the same or similar quantities, both the validity of 
the comparison and the reasonableness of the previous prices can be 
established, and the company shares that commercial sales data with the 
contracting officer when it cannot be obtained by the Government 
through normal market research, so that the contracting officer can 
determine a fair and reasonable price, obtaining further ``data other 
than certified cost or pricing data'' will not be necessary. See 
section A, Background, and the responses to Specific Comments numbers 
7, 9, and 11.
    24. Comment: The rule will create confusion when commercial items 
are being procured by putting contracting officers in a position where 
the only safe alternative will be to demand the maximum amount of data 
from an offeror.
    Response: There is no fundamental change from the existing 
requirements that contracting officers: ``shall not obtain more data or 
information than necessary.'' To the extent there are sufficient 
commercial sales of the item for the same or similar quantities, both 
the validity of the comparison and the reasonableness of the previous 
price can be established, and the company shares that information with 
the contracting officer when it cannot be obtained by the Government 
through normal market research, so that the contracting officer can 
determine a fair and reasonable price, additional data requests will 
not be required. This is not a departure from the existing FAR 
requirement. See section A, Background.
    25. Comment: We believe the FAR Council is expressing 
dissatisfaction with the ability of the acquisition workforce to do 
price analysis rather than the more familiar cost analysis and 
recommend providing adequate training rather than making significant 
changes to established regulations.
    Response: See section A, Background, and the Background section of 
the proposed rule Federal Register notice (72 FR 20092, April 23, 
2007), concerning the confusion over the current FAR language, and 
further expressed in these public comments about existing FAR 
requirements. Training of our acquisition workforce in all types of 
proposal analysis is an ongoing effort. The workforce needs the 
cooperation of contractors to submit required data so that contracting 
officers can ensure a fair and reasonable price. We believe this final 
rule helps clarify requirements for submitting data consistent with the 
existing FAR. The Councils anticipate the development of training to 
help the workforce understand and apply the rule.
    26. Comment: Recommend Councils conduct a public meeting.
    Response: A public meeting was held on November 15, 2007, to ensure 
that all interested parties had an opportunity to provide additional 
input. The public meeting was followed by the opportunity for 
interested parties to submit comments.
    27. Comment: Existing regulations delineate that data provided in 
support of proposals fall into two distinct categories: ``cost or 
pricing data'' and ``information other than cost or pricing data.'' The 
primary differentiator between cost or pricing data and information 
other than cost or pricing data is that the former requires 
certification in accordance with FAR 15.406-2, while the latter is any 
type of information that does not require certification per FAR 15.406-
2. The existing regulations clearly state that ``information other than 
cost or pricing data'' is ``any type of information that is not 
required to be certified'' and that the definition ``includes cost or 
pricing data for which certification is determined inapplicable after 
submission.'' As a result, there is no ambiguity as to the type of data 
that can be requested or obtained through the submission of 
``information other than cost or pricing data.'' The Councils have 
changed the type of non-certifiable data to include ``cost data'' 
rather than what was previously referred to as ``cost information.'' 
The FAR Council's intent to clarify that the two terms result in 
underlying data that is the same, appears to be in direct conflict with 
the statutory definition. That statute does not eliminate the 
possibility that the data may be the same but it provides a different 
standard for ``other information.'' Accordingly, there are two 
different types of data defined in TINA, ``cost or pricing data'' that 
is required to be certified and ``other information'' that is not 
required to be certified.
    Response: We believe this comment demonstrates the confusion 
reported to the Councils. TINA and FAR 15.402(a) require that the 
contracting officer shall require submission of data other than 
certified cost or pricing data to the extent necessary to determine the 
reasonableness of the price. We agree with the respondent's comment 
that the definition of ``information other than cost or pricing data'', 
in effect prior to this final rule, included cost or pricing data for 
which certification is determined inapplicable after submission. The 
contracting officer must obtain whatever level of data is needed to 
determine price reasonableness, but cannot require certification of 
cost or pricing data (should cost or pricing data be needed) if the 
certification requirement of TINA does not apply. However, some 
contractors incorrectly believed that the FAR definition of 
``information other than cost or pricing data'' in effect prior to this 
final rule, precluded the contracting officer from obtaining 
uncertified cost or pricing data.
    Section 2306a(h) of Title 10, as well as section 254b(h) of Title 
41 of the U.S. Code, define both ``cost or pricing data'' and the 
circumstances under which that data must be certified. When the data 
must be certified, that data becomes ``certified cost or pricing 
data.'' If, after submittal, no certification is required, the data 
becomes ``data other than certified cost or pricing data.'' Sections 
2306a(d)(1) and 254b(d)(1) state: ``When certified cost or pricing data 
are not required * * * the contracting officer shall require submission 
of data other than certified cost or pricing data to the extent 
necessary to determine the reasonableness of the price * * * the 
contracting officer shall require that the data submitted include, at a 
minimum, appropriate information on prices at which the same or similar 
items have previously been sold. * * *'' The statutory requirement is 
to obtain data necessary to determine the reasonableness of the price. 
The contracting officer cannot require certification of the data 
submitted if TINA does not require it to be certified. If the 
contracting officer has no other means to determine the reasonableness 
of the price (the main requirement of TINA), then the contracting 
officer shall require the submission of the necessary data needed to 
make that determination, including, at a minimum, prices at which the 
same or similar items have been previously sold. TINA does not prohibit 
obtaining cost or pricing data when ``certified cost or pricing data'' 
is not required to be obtained, but TINA (10 U.S.C. 2306(d)), as well 
as the FAR, provide requirements to ensure the contracting officer does 
not require more data than is necessary to determine that the prices 
are fair and reasonable.
    28. Comment: The proposed rule would lead contracting officers to 
expect offerors to maintain traditional Government cost accounting data 
for commercial items.
    Response: There is no requirement for anything more than the type 
of commercial data customarily maintained. See FAR 15.403-3(a)(2), FAR 
15.403-3(c)(2), and FAR 15.403-5(b)(2).

[[Page 53140]]

    29. Comment: Use of the word ``claimed'' at FAR 15.403-1(c)(3)(i) 
reveals a great deal about the underlying philosophy that is 
perpetuated throughout the proposed rule.
    Response: The word ``claimed'' in FAR 15.403-1(c)(3)(i) is not new; 
it is part of the existing language. There is no inference of intent on 
the use of the word. The intent of the rule is to make it clear that 
contracting officers must obtain the level of data needed in order to 
meet the requirements of TINA (10 U.S.C. 2306a(d)(1) and 41 U.S.C. 
254b(d)(1)), which states that ``* * * the contracting officer shall 
require submission of data * * * necessary to determine the 
reasonableness of the price * * *.''
    30. Comment: FAR subpart 15.4 should not be used to determine 
whether or not an item being offered is a commercial item.
    Response: FAR subpart 15.4 is not used to determine whether or not 
an item is a commercial item. However, it is appropriate in FAR subpart 
15.4 to require contracting officers to affirmatively decide if an item 
being offered meets the definition of ``commercial item'' before asking 
a contractor to provide cost or pricing data, if cost analysis is the 
contracting officer's only means to determine the price to be fair and 
reasonable.
    31. Comment: The proposed change to FAR 15.403-3(c), Commercial 
Items, states that even if an offeror provides catalog or market 
pricing, the contracting officer cannot assume that such information 
would be sufficient to establish a fair and reasonable price, and 
therefore, the contracting officer ``shall require'' the offeror to 
submit data other than certified cost or pricing data to support 
further analysis.
    Response: There was no substantive change in the language in 
question; it is essentially the existing language. The language gives 
no mention to ``market pricing.'' Considering FAR subpart 15.4 in its 
entirety, if there is adequate market pricing, the contracting officer 
is prohibited from requiring data from the contractor (FAR 15.402(a) 
and FAR 15.403-3(a)). The current language and revised language in this 
final rule only requires submission of data other than certified cost 
or pricing data in accordance with the order of preference at FAR 
15.402(a), and then only to the level of detail needed to support a 
determination of a fair and reasonable price.
    32. Comment: The proposed change to FAR 52.215-20, illustrates the 
tremendous confusion the proposed rule will cause and the onerous 
nature of the pricing requirements for commercial items. The proposed 
rule would ``require'' contracting officers to demand that offerors 
proposing commercial items submit ``data other than certified cost or 
pricing data'' if the contracting officer believes it is necessary to 
determine prices fair and reasonable. Proposed paragraph (b) of FAR 
52.215-20 then states that if the offeror is not granted an exception 
from TINA, then the offeror shall submit ``data other than certified 
cost or pricing data.''
    Response: FAR 52.215-20 clause requires offerors to submit ``data 
other than certified cost or pricing data'' if the contracting officer 
believes it is necessary to determine prices to be fair and reasonable. 
The final rule clarifies in paragraph (b) of the contract clause FAR 
52.215-20 that the data required under Table 15-2 includes ``data other 
than certified cost or pricing data'' as well as ``certified cost or 
pricing data''.
    33. Comment: Within the proposed rule, the Councils have made 
significant changes that result in the reprioritizing of the 
Government's pricing policy as detailed at FAR 15.402.
    Response: In response to comments, the final rule reorganizes the 
FAR 15.402(a) to clarify the policy, but the policy remains essentially 
unchanged. See section A, Background.
    34. Comment: The proposed rule revisions at FAR 15.402(a) suggests 
that the ``data other than certified cost or pricing data'' is 
preferred over ``certified cost or pricing data'', even when 
certification is required by FAR 15.403-4.
    Response: In response to comments, the final rule reorganizes FAR 
15.402(a) to emphasize that certified cost or pricing data shall be 
obtained when required by TINA. When certified cost or pricing data are 
not required, the order of preference at FAR 15.402(a)(2) should 
generally be followed.
    35. Comment: The DoD-specific issues cited in the proposed rule and 
at the public meeting have been adequately addressed by the Director of 
Defense Procurement and Acquisition Policy through recent policy memos, 
policy guidance, and contract pricing training. These actions should be 
given a chance to work before further regulatory changes are made that 
would impede the U.S. Government's access to the commercial 
marketplace.
    Response: The purpose of the FAR rulemaking is to eliminate 
confusion throughout the Government and to clarify for all agencies and 
their contractors definitions and associated responsibilities for the 
request and submission of certified cost or pricing data and data other 
than certified cost or pricing data. While DoD guidance is helpful to 
the DoD acquisition workforce, years of experiences throughout 
Government show that the current FAR language is causing confusion over 
what a contractor is required to submit to support prices. This 
confusion leads to inefficient procurement processes and sometimes 
leads to the Government paying unreasonable prices. The revised 
language clarifies the regulation, and is consistent with TINA, by 
requiring the contracting officer to obtain only the data necessary to 
determine the fairness and reasonableness of the price.
    36. Comment: The current FAR rules, when properly exercised, are 
already capable of achieving fair and reasonable prices and, in this 
respondent's opinion, the definitions are clear and unambiguous, and 
contracting officers have significant latitude under current 
regulations to acquire data from contractors to support price 
reasonableness of commercial items.
    Response: See section A, Background, and also the responses to 
Specific Comments numbers 7, 9, 11, and 23.
    37. Comment: There are no proposed changes to make contracting 
officers aware that cost data from commercial companies will most 
likely not be in a form that complies with their expectations, 
training, or experience. Cost data from commercial companies will not 
comply with Cost Accounting Standards, FAR part 31, and are not 
generally suitable for certification under the Truth in Negotiations 
Act. The FAR council should not use terminology that is part of a cost-
based contracting process.
    Response: Current regulations and TINA already require contractors 
to provide certified cost or pricing data, and data other than 
certified cost or pricing data as necessary, that will enable the 
contracting officer to determine fair and reasonable prices. The rule 
clarifies the regulations by using language consistent with TINA more 
precisely. The rule does not expand the contracting officer's authority 
to request data from commercial companies when needed for the 
determination that prices are fair and reasonable. The challenge the 
comment reflects may be real, but it is not affected by the rule.
    38. Comment: The proposed rule would revise the order of preference 
of data at FAR 15.402(a) and would eliminate the distinction between 
``cost or pricing data'' and ``information other than cost or pricing 
data.''
    Response: The order of preference is not changed. By eliminating 
the ambiguous phrase ``information other than cost or pricing data,'' 
the rule

[[Page 53141]]

clarifies and maintains the distinction between ``certified cost or 
pricing data'' and ``data other than certified cost or pricing data,'' 
tracking the statutory distinctions. As stated in other responses 
herein, the revised definitions clearly describe what is required by 
TINA and intended by this rule. TINA defines ``cost or pricing data,'' 
and then prescribes when such data shall be certified. The nature and 
extent of ``cost or pricing data'' is the same regardless of whether it 
is certified or not. The statute also prescribes when a contractor must 
provide ``data other than certified cost or pricing data'' (which 
includes ``cost or pricing data'' and judgmental information) without 
being required to certify it. Under the current law and regulations, a 
contracting officer is empowered to obtain all the data and judgmental 
information needed to determine a fair and reasonable price, but is 
restricted as to which data, and when that data, must be certified.
    39. Comment: By eliminating the term ``information'' and 
substituting the term ``data'' the rule would add ambiguity as to the 
legal status of the submission by commercial companies that cannot 
provide FAR compliant cost data.
    Response: The use of the term ``data'' is consistent with the 
statute and with the Government's need to obtain factual information to 
be used as a basis for reasoning, discussion, or calculation. The rule 
does not change the existing strong limitations in the FAR on the 
circumstances under which a contracting officer can obtain certified 
cost or pricing data from commercial sources. It does not change the 
current restrictions on the amount of data a contracting officer can 
obtain (i.e., only that data to the extent necessary to determine fair 
and reasonable prices.) The rule also retains the existing flexibility 
to use contractor data formats.
    40. Comment: The ``of a type'' language in the proposed rule at FAR 
15.404-1(b)(2)(i) and FAR 15.401(b)(ii)(C) introduces ambiguity as to 
the meaning of a commercial item. It is recommended that the ``of a 
type'' language be deleted from the proposed rule as it seems to add no 
clarity to the definition of a commercial item or how commercial items 
are to be priced.
    Response: We believe the respondent meant FAR 15.404-1(b)(2)(ii) 
and FAR 15.404-1(b)(2)(ii)(C). The references in the comment either do 
not have the ``of a type'' text, or the reference is erroneous. These 
subparagraphs of the FAR provide requirements for price analysis and 
appropriately directs contracting officers to consider price 
comparisons even in situations when the proposed item is ``of a type'' 
that is customarily used by the general public or non-governmental 
entities for purposes other than governmental purposes, a term used 
consistently in the definition of commercial item at FAR 2.101. This 
section also appropriately directs contracting officers to obtain 
technical assistance.
    41. Comment: The proposed rule fails to address the confusion in 
pricing noncompetitive (sole-source) commercial items and guides the 
contracting officer to perform price analysis of previous DoD 
(Government) prices to determine price reasonableness.
    Response: The intent of the rule is for contracting officers to 
follow the order of preference, which includes price analysis 
(including price analysis of previous Government and non-Government 
sales). The Councils recognize, however, that there has been confusion 
over the type and amount of data that can be required by a contracting 
officer, particularly in non-competitive (sole-source) acquisitions of 
commercial items. Accordingly, for the sake of clarification, changes 
were made at FAR 15.402(a)(2)(ii)(A), FAR 15.403-1(c)(3)(i), and FAR 
15.403-3(c) to emphasize the need for the contracting officer to review 
the history of sales to non-governmental and governmental entities, 
determine whether an item is a commercial item, and decide whether 
certified cost or pricing data are required. The changes to FAR 
15.402(a) provide sufficient flexibility to the contracting officer to 
address the specific contracting situation. As revised, this rule 
clarifies that TINA authorizes a contracting officer to obtain data 
other than certified cost or pricing data to the extent necessary to 
establish a fair and reasonable price, even when the acquisition is for 
a commercial item. Therefore, the rule sets forth appropriate guidance 
for determining fair and reasonable prices.
    This is a significant regulatory action and, therefore, was 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.

C. 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 does not 
expand or diminish the existing rights of the contracting officer to 
obtain cost data or pricing data. Further, most acquisitions involving 
small entities are under the threshold for the submission of certified 
cost or pricing data of $700,000, the new TINA threshold (see FAR Case 
2008-024, Item I of this FAC). Finally, this rule will benefit all 
entities, both large and small, by clarifying the requirements for the 
submission of ``certified cost or pricing data'' and ``data other than 
certified cost or pricing data.''

D. Paperwork Reduction Act

    The Paperwork Reduction Act does apply; however, these changes to 
the FAR do not impose additional information collection requirements to 
the paperwork burden previously approved under OMB Control Number 9000-
0013.

List of Subjects in 48 CFR Parts 2, 4, 12, 14, 15, 16, 19, 27, 30, 
31, 32, 42, 44, 49, and 52

    Government procurement.

    Dated: August 18, 2010.
Edward Loeb,
Director, Acquisition Policy Division.

0
Therefore, DoD, GSA, and NASA amend 48 CFR parts 2, 4, 12, 14, 15, 16, 
19, 27, 30, 31, 32, 42, 44, 49, and 52 as set forth below:
0
1. The authority citation for 48 CFR parts 2, 4, 12, 14, 15, 16, 19, 
27, 30, 31, 32, 42, 44, 49, and 52 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. chapter 137; and 42 
U.S.C. 2473(c).

PART 2--DEFINITIONS OF WORDS AND TERMS

0
2. Amend section 2.101 in paragraph (b)(2) by--
0
a. Adding, in alphabetical order, the definition ``Certified cost or 
pricing data'';
0
b. Revising the introductory text of the definition ``Cost or pricing 
data'';
0
c. Adding, in alphabetical order, the definition ``Data other than 
certified cost or pricing data''; and
0
d. Removing the definition ``Information other than cost or pricing 
data''.
    The added and revised text reads as follows:


2.101  Definitions

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (2) * * *
    Certified cost or pricing data means ``cost or pricing data'' that 
were required to be submitted in accordance with FAR 15.403-4 and 
15.403-5 and have been certified, or are required to be certified,

[[Page 53142]]

in accordance with 15.406-2. This certification states that, to the 
best of the person's knowledge and belief, the cost or pricing data are 
accurate, complete, and current as of a date certain before contract 
award. Cost or pricing data are required to be certified in certain 
procurements (10 U.S.C. 2306a and 41 U.S.C. 254b).
* * * * *
    Cost or pricing data (10 U.S.C. 2306a(h)(1) and 41 U.S.C. 254b) 
means all facts that, as of the date of price agreement, or, if 
applicable, an earlier date agreed upon between the parties that is as 
close as practicable to the date of agreement on price, prudent buyers 
and sellers would reasonably expect to affect price negotiations 
significantly. Cost or pricing data are factual, not judgmental; and 
are verifiable. While they do not indicate the accuracy of the 
prospective contractor's judgment about estimated future costs or 
projections, they do include the data forming the basis for that 
judgment. Cost or pricing data are more than historical accounting 
data; they are all the facts that can be reasonably expected to 
contribute to the soundness of estimates of future costs and to the 
validity of determinations of costs already incurred. They also 
include, but are not limited to, such factors as--
* * * * *
    Data other than certified cost or pricing data means pricing data, 
cost data, and judgmental information necessary for the contracting 
officer to determine a fair and reasonable price or to determine cost 
realism. Such data may include the identical types of data as certified 
cost or pricing data, consistent with Table 15-2 of 15.408, but without 
the certification. The data may also include, for example, sales data 
and any information reasonably required to explain the offeror's 
estimating process, including, but not limited to--
    (1) The judgmental factors applied and the mathematical or other 
methods used in the estimate, including those used in projecting from 
known data; and
    (2) The nature and amount of any contingencies included in the 
proposed price.
* * * * *

PART 4--ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS


4.704  [Amended]

0
3. Amend section 4.704 in paragraph (b) by removing ``for cost'' and 
adding ``for certified cost'' in its place.

0
4. Amend section 4.803 by revising paragraphs (a)(17) and (b)(4) to 
read as follows:


4.803  Contents of contract files.

* * * * *
    (a) * * *
    (17) Data and information related to the contracting officer's 
determination of a fair and reasonable price. This may include--
    (i) Certified cost or pricing data;
    (ii) Data other than certified cost or pricing data;
    (iii) Justification for waiver from the requirement to submit 
certified cost or pricing data; or
    (iv) Certificates of Current Cost or Pricing Data.
* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (4) Certified cost or pricing data, Certificates of Current Cost or 
Pricing Data, or data other than certified cost or pricing data; cost 
or price analysis; and other documentation supporting contractual 
actions executed by the contract administration office.
* * * * *

PART 12--ACQUISITON OF COMMERCIAL ITEMS


12.102  [Amended]

0
5. Amend section 12.102 in paragraph (f)(2)(ii) by removing ``Cost or 
pricing'' and adding ``Certified cost or pricing'' in its place.


12.504  [Amended]

0
6. Amend section 12.504 in paragraph (a)(7) by removing ``provide 
cost'' and adding ``provide certified cost'' in its place.

PART 14--SEALED BIDDING

0
7. Amend section 14.201-7 by removing from paragraph (a)(1)(ii) ``of 
cost'' and adding ``of certified cost'' in its place; and by revising 
paragraphs (b)(1) and (c)(1) to read as follows:


14.201-7  Contract clauses.

* * * * *
    (b)(1) When contracting by sealed bidding, the contracting officer 
shall insert the clause at 52.214-27, Price Reduction for Defective 
Certified Cost or Pricing Data--Modifications--Sealed Bidding, in 
solicitations and contracts if the contract amount is expected to 
exceed the threshold for submission of certified cost or pricing data 
at 15.403-4(a)(1).
* * * * *
    (c)(1) When contracting by sealed bidding, the contracting officer 
shall insert the clause at 52.214-28, Subcontractor Certified Cost or 
Pricing Data--Modifications--Sealed Bidding, in solicitations and 
contracts if the contract amount is expected to exceed the threshold 
for submission of certified cost or pricing data at 15.403-4(a)(1).
* * * * *

PART 15--CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION

0
8. Amend section 15.204-5 by revising paragraph (b)(5) to read as 
follows:


15.204-5  Part IV--Representations and Instructions.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (5) Certified cost or pricing data (see Table 15-2 of 15.408) or 
data other than certified cost or pricing data.
* * * * *

0
9. Amend section 15.402 by revising the introductory text and paragraph 
(a) to read as follows:


15.402  Pricing policy.

    Contracting officers shall--
    (a) Purchase supplies and services from responsible sources at fair 
and reasonable prices. In establishing the reasonableness of the 
offered prices, the contracting officer--
    (1) Shall obtain certified cost or pricing data when required by 
15.403-4, along with data other than certified cost or pricing data as 
necessary to establish a fair and reasonable price; or
    (2) When certified cost or pricing data are not required by 15.403-
4, obtain data other than certified cost or pricing data as necessary 
to establish a fair and reasonable price, generally using the following 
order of preference in determining the type of data required:
    (i) No additional data from the offeror, if the price is based on 
adequate price competition, except as provided by 15.403-3(b).
    (ii) Data other than certified cost or pricing data such as--
    (A) Data related to prices (e.g., established catalog or market 
prices, sales to non-governmental and governmental entities), relying 
first on data available within the Government; second, on data obtained 
from sources other than the offeror; and, if necessary, on data 
obtained from the offeror. When obtaining data from the offeror is 
necessary, unless an exception under 15.403-1(b)(1) or (2) applies, 
such data submitted by the offeror shall include, at a minimum, 
appropriate data on the prices at which the same or similar items have 
been sold previously, adequate for evaluating the reasonableness of the 
price.
    (B) Cost data to the extent necessary for the contracting officer 
to determine a fair and reasonable price.
    (3) Obtain the type and quantity of data necessary to establish a 
fair and

[[Page 53143]]

reasonable price, but not more data than is necessary. Requesting 
unnecessary data can lead to increased proposal preparation costs, 
generally extend acquisition lead time, and consume additional 
contractor and Government resources. Use techniques such as, but not 
limited to, price analysis, cost analysis, and/or cost realism analysis 
to establish a fair and reasonable price. If a fair and reasonable 
price cannot be established by the contracting officer from the 
analyses of the data obtained or submitted to date, the contracting 
officer shall require the submission of additional data sufficient for 
the contracting officer to support the determination of the fair and 
reasonable price.
* * * * *

0
10. Amend section 15.403 by revising the section heading to read as 
follows:


15.403  Obtaining certified cost or pricing data.

* * * * *
0
11. Amend section 15.403-1 by--
0
a. Revising the section heading, paragraph (a), the introductory text 
of paragraph (b), the heading to paragraph (c) introductory text, and 
paragraph (c)(3)(i);
0
b. Removing from paragraph (c)(3)(iii)(A) ``of cost'' and adding ``of 
certified cost'' in its place;
0
c. Revising paragraphs (c)(3)(iii)(B) and (c)(3)(iii)(C);
0
d. Removing from paragraph (c)(3)(iv) ``for cost'' and adding ``for 
certified cost'' in its place; and
0
e. Revising the introductory text of paragraph (c)(4).
    The revised text reads as follows:


15.403-1  Prohibition on obtaining certified cost or pricing data (10 
U.S.C. 2306a and 41 U.S.C. 254b).

    (a) Certified cost or pricing data shall not be obtained for 
acquisitions at or below the simplified acquisition threshold.
    (b) Exceptions to certified cost or pricing data requirements. The 
contracting officer shall not require certified cost or pricing data to 
support any action (contracts, subcontracts, or modifications) (but may 
require data other than certified cost or pricing data as defined in 
FAR 2.101 to support a determination of a fair and reasonable price or 
cost realism)--
* * * * *
    (c) Standards for exceptions from certified cost or pricing data 
requirements--* * *
    (3) * * *
    (i) Any acquisition of an item that the contracting officer 
determines meets the commercial item definition in 2.101, or any 
modification, as defined in paragraph (3)(i) of that definition, that 
does not change the item from a commercial item to a noncommercial 
item, is exempt from the requirement for certified cost or pricing 
data. If the contracting officer determines that an item claimed to be 
commercial is, in fact, not commercial and that no other exception or 
waiver applies, (e.g. the acquisition is not based on adequate price 
competition; the acquisition is not based on prices set by law or 
regulation; and the acquisition exceeds the threshold for the 
submission of certified cost or pricing data at 15.403-4(a)(1)) the 
contracting officer shall require submission of certified cost or 
pricing data.
* * * * *
    (iii) * * *
    (B) For acquisitions funded by DoD, NASA, or Coast Guard, such 
modifications of a commercial item are exempt from the requirement for 
submission of certified cost or pricing data provided the total price 
of all such modifications under a particular contract action does not 
exceed the greater of the threshold for obtaining certified cost or 
pricing data in 15.403-4 or 5 percent of the total price of the 
contract at the time of contract award.
    (C) For acquisitions funded by DoD, NASA, or Coast Guard such 
modifications of a commercial item are not exempt from the requirement 
for submission of certified cost or pricing data on the basis of the 
exemption provided for at 15.403-1(c)(3) if the total price of all such 
modifications under a particular contract action exceeds the greater of 
the threshold for obtaining certified cost or pricing data in 15.403-4 
or 5 percent of the total price of the contract at the time of contract 
award.
* * * * *
    (4) Waivers. The head of the contracting activity (HCA) may, 
without power of delegation, waive the requirement for submission of 
certified cost or pricing data in exceptional cases. The authorization 
for the waiver and the supporting rationale shall be in writing. The 
HCA may consider waiving the requirement if the price can be determined 
to be fair and reasonable without submission of certified cost or 
pricing data. For example, if certified cost or pricing data were 
furnished on previous production buys and the contracting officer 
determines such data are sufficient, when combined with updated data, a 
waiver may be granted. If the HCA has waived the requirement for 
submission of certified cost or pricing data, the contractor or higher-
tier subcontractor to whom the waiver relates shall be considered as 
having been required to provide certified cost or pricing data. 
Consequently, award of any lower-tier subcontract expected to exceed 
the certified cost or pricing data threshold requires the submission of 
certified cost or pricing data unless--
* * * * *

0
12. Revise section 15.403-2 to read as follows:


15.403-2  Other circumstances where certified cost or pricing data are 
not required.

    (a) The exercise of an option at the price established at contract 
award or initial negotiation does not require submission of certified 
cost or pricing data.
    (b) Certified cost or pricing data are not required for proposals 
used solely for overrun funding or interim billing price adjustments.

0
13. Revise section 15.403-3 to read as follows:


15.403-3  Requiring data other than certified cost or pricing data.

    (a)(1) In those acquisitions that do not require certified cost or 
pricing data, the contracting officer shall--
    (i) Obtain whatever data are available from Government or other 
secondary sources and use that data in determining a fair and 
reasonable price;
    (ii) Require submission of data other than certified cost or 
pricing data, as defined in 2.101, from the offeror to the extent 
necessary to determine a fair and reasonable price (10 U.S.C. 
2306a(d)(1) and 41 U.S.C. 254b(d)(1)) if the contracting officer 
determines that adequate data from sources other than the offeror are 
not available. This includes requiring data from an offeror to support 
a cost realism analysis;
    (iii) Consider whether cost data are necessary to determine a fair 
and reasonable price when there is not adequate price competition;
    (iv) Require that the data submitted by the offeror include, at a 
minimum, appropriate data on the prices at which the same item or 
similar items have previously been sold, adequate for determining the 
reasonableness of the price unless an exception under 15.403-1(b)(1) or 
(2) applies; and
    (v) Consider the guidance in section 3.3, chapter 3, volume I, of 
the Contract Pricing Reference Guide cited at 15.404-1(a)(7) to 
determine the data an offeror shall be required to submit.
    (2) The contractor's format for submitting the data should be used 
(see 15.403-5(b)(2)).
    (3) The contracting officer shall ensure that data used to support 
price negotiations are sufficiently current to

[[Page 53144]]

permit negotiation of a fair and reasonable price. Requests for updated 
offeror data should be limited to data that affect the adequacy of the 
proposal for negotiations, such as changes in price lists.
    (4) As specified in section 808 of the Strom Thurmond National 
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 (Pub. L. 105-261), an 
offeror who does not comply with a requirement to submit data for a 
contract or subcontract in accordance with paragraph (a)(1) of this 
subsection is ineligible for award unless the HCA determines that it is 
in the best interest of the Government to make the award to that 
offeror, based on consideration of the following:
    (i) The effort made to obtain the data.
    (ii) The need for the item or service.
    (iii) Increased cost or significant harm to the Government if award 
is not made.
    (b) Adequate price competition. When adequate price competition 
exists (see 15.403-1(c)(1)), generally no additional data are necessary 
to determine the reasonableness of price. However, if there are unusual 
circumstances where it is concluded that additional data are necessary 
to determine the reasonableness of price, the contracting officer 
shall, to the maximum extent practicable, obtain the additional data 
from sources other than the offeror. In addition, the contracting 
officer should request data to determine the cost realism of competing 
offers or to evaluate competing approaches.
    (c) Commercial items. (1) At a minimum, the contracting officer 
must use price analysis to determine whether the price is fair and 
reasonable whenever the contracting officer acquires a commercial item 
(see 15.404-1(b)). The fact that a price is included in a catalog does 
not, in and of itself, make it fair and reasonable. If the contracting 
officer cannot determine whether an offered price is fair and 
reasonable, even after obtaining additional data from sources other 
than the offeror, then the contracting officer shall require the 
offeror to submit data other than certified cost or pricing data to 
support further analysis (see 15.404-1). This data may include history 
of sales to non-governmental and governmental entities, cost data, or 
any other information the contracting officer requires to determine the 
price is fair and reasonable. Unless an exception under 15.403-1(b)(1) 
or (2) applies, the contracting officer shall require that the data 
submitted by the offeror include, at a minimum, appropriate data on the 
prices at which the same item or similar items have previously been 
sold, adequate for determining the reasonableness of the price.
    (2) Limitations relating to commercial items (10 U.S.C. 2306a(d)(2) 
and 41 U.S.C. 254b(d)(2)). (i) The contracting officer shall limit 
requests for sales data relating to commercial items to data for the 
same or similar items during a relevant time period.
    (ii) The contracting officer shall, to the maximum extent 
practicable, limit the scope of the request for data relating to 
commercial items to include only data that are in the form regularly 
maintained by the offeror as part of its commercial operations.
    (iii) The Government shall not disclose outside the Government data 
obtained relating to commercial items that is exempt from disclosure 
under 24.202(a) or the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552(b)).
    (3) For services that are not offered and sold competitively in 
substantial quantities in the commercial marketplace, but are of a type 
offered and sold competitively in substantial quantities in the 
commercial marketplace, see 15.403-1(c)(3)(ii).
    14. Amend section 15.403-4 by revising the section heading, and 
paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) to read as follows:


15.403-4  Requiring certified cost or pricing data (10 U.S.C. 2306a and 
41 U.S.C. 254b).

    (a)(1) The contracting officer shall obtain certified cost or 
pricing data only if the contracting officer concludes that none of the 
exceptions in 15.403-1(b) applies. However, if the contracting officer 
has reason to believe exceptional circumstances exist and has 
sufficient data available to determine a fair and reasonable price, 
then the contracting officer should consider requesting a waiver under 
the exception at 15.403-1(b)(4). The threshold for obtaining certified 
cost or pricing data is $700,000. Unless an exception applies, 
certified cost or pricing data are required before accomplishing any of 
the following actions expected to exceed the current threshold or, in 
the case of existing contracts, the threshold specified in the 
contract:
    (i) The award of any negotiated contract (except for undefinitized 
actions such as letter contracts).
    (ii) The award of a subcontract at any tier, if the contractor and 
each higher-tier subcontractor were required to furnish certified cost 
or pricing data (but see waivers at 15.403-1(c)(4)).
    (iii) The modification of any sealed bid or negotiated contract 
(whether or not certified cost or pricing data were initially required) 
or any subcontract covered by paragraph (a)(1)(ii) of this subsection. 
Price adjustment amounts must consider both increases and decreases 
(e.g., a $200,000 modification resulting from a reduction of $500,000 
and an increase of $300,000 is a pricing adjustment exceeding 
$700,000). This requirement does not apply when unrelated and 
separately priced changes for which certified cost or pricing data 
would not otherwise be required are included for administrative 
convenience in the same modification. Negotiated final pricing actions 
(such as termination settlements and total final price agreements for 
fixed-price incentive and redeterminable contracts) are contract 
modifications requiring certified cost or pricing data if--
    (A) The total final price agreement for such settlements or 
agreements exceeds the pertinent threshold set forth at paragraph 
(a)(1) of this subsection; or
    (B) The partial termination settlement plus the estimate to 
complete the continued portion of the contract exceeds the pertinent 
threshold set forth at paragraph (a)(1) of this subsection (see 
49.105(c)(15)).
    (2) Unless prohibited because an exception at 15.403-1(b) applies, 
the head of the contracting activity, without power of delegation, may 
authorize the contracting officer to obtain certified cost or pricing 
data for pricing actions below the pertinent threshold in paragraph 
(a)(1) of this subsection, provided the action exceeds the simplified 
acquisition threshold. The head of the contracting activity shall 
justify the requirement for certified cost or pricing data. The 
documentation shall include a written finding that certified cost or 
pricing data are necessary to determine whether the price is fair and 
reasonable and the facts supporting that finding.
    (b) When certified cost or pricing data are required, the 
contracting officer shall require the contractor or prospective 
contractor to submit to the contracting officer (and to have any 
subcontractor or prospective subcontractor submit to the prime 
contractor or appropriate subcontractor tier) the following in support 
of any proposal:
    (1) The certified cost or pricing data and data other than 
certified cost or pricing data required by the contracting officer to 
determine that the price is fair and reasonable.
    (2) A Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing Data, in the format 
specified in 15.406-2, certifying that to the best of its knowledge and 
belief, the cost or pricing data were accurate, complete, and current 
as of the date of agreement on price or, if applicable, an earlier date 
agreed upon between the parties that is

[[Page 53145]]

as close as practicable to the date of agreement on price.
    (c) If certified cost or pricing data are requested and submitted 
by an offeror, but an exception is later found to apply, the data must 
not be considered certified cost or pricing data as defined in 2.101 
and must not be certified in accordance with 15.406-2.
* * * * *

0
15. Revise section 15.403-5 to read as follows:


15.403-5  Instructions for submission of certified cost or pricing data 
and data other than certified cost or pricing data.

    (a) Taking into consideration the policy at 15.402, the contracting 
officer shall specify in the solicitation (see 15.408 (l) and (m))--
    (1) Whether certified cost or pricing data are required;
    (2) That, in lieu of submitting certified cost or pricing data, the 
offeror may submit a request for exception from the requirement to 
submit certified cost or pricing data;
    (3) Any requirement for data other than certified cost or pricing 
data; and
    (4) The requirement for necessary preaward or postaward access to 
offeror's records.
    (b)(1) Format for submission of certified cost or pricing data. 
When certification is required, the contracting officer may require 
submission of certified cost or pricing data in the format indicated in 
Table 15-2 of 15.408, specify an alternative format, or permit 
submission in the contractor's format (See 15.408(l)(1)), unless the 
data are required to be submitted on one of the termination forms 
specified in subpart 49.6.
    (2) Format for submission of data other than certified cost or 
pricing data. When required by the contracting officer, data other than 
certified cost or pricing data may be submitted in the offeror's own 
format unless the contracting officer decides that use of a specific 
format is essential for evaluating and determining that the price is 
fair and reasonable and the format has been described in the 
solicitation.
    (3) Format for submission of data supporting forward pricing rate 
agreements. Data supporting forward pricing rate agreements or final 
indirect cost proposals shall be submitted in a form acceptable to the 
contracting officer.

0
16. Amend section 15.404-1 by--
0
a. Removing from paragraphs (a)(2) and (a)(3) ``when cost'' and adding 
``when certified cost'' in its place;
0
b. Revising paragraph (a)(4) and the second sentence of paragraph 
(a)(6);
0
c. Revising the heading of paragraph (b);
0
d. Adding three sentences to the end of paragraph (b)(1);
0
e. Revising the second sentence of paragraph (b)(2)(i), and paragraphs 
(b)(2)(ii) and (b)(2)(vii);
0
f. Revising paragraph (c)(1);
0
g. Removing from the introductory text of paragraph (c)(2)(i) ``cost 
or'' and adding ``cost data or'' in its place;
0
h. Revising paragraph (c)(2)(v);
0
i. Removing from paragraph (d)(3) ``contractors'' and adding 
``contractors' '' in its place;
0
j. Removing from paragraph (e)(1) ``may'' and adding ``should'' in its 
place, and removing ``equipment, real'' and adding ``equipment or 
real'' in its place;
0
k. Adding paragraph (e)(3); and
0
l. Removing from the third sentence of paragraph (f)(2) ``may'' and 
adding ``should'' in its place.
    The revised and added text reads as follows:


15.404-1  Proposal analysis techniques.

    (a) * * *
    (4) Cost analysis may also be used to evaluate data other than 
certified cost or pricing data to determine cost reasonableness or cost 
realism when a fair and reasonable price cannot be determined through 
price analysis alone for commercial or non-commercial items.
* * * * *
    (6) * * * Any discrepancy or mistake of fact (such as duplications, 
omissions, and errors in computation) contained in the certified cost 
or pricing data or data other than certified cost or pricing data 
submitted in support of a proposal shall be brought to the contracting 
officer's attention for appropriate action.
* * * * *
    (b) Price analysis for commercial and non-commercial items. (1) * * 
* Unless an exception from the requirement to obtain certified cost or 
pricing data applies under 15.403-1(b)(1) or (b)(2), at a minimum, the 
contracting officer shall obtain appropriate data, without 
certification, on the prices at which the same or similar items have 
previously been sold and determine if the data is adequate for 
evaluating the reasonableness of the price. Price analysis may include 
evaluating data other than certified cost or pricing data obtained from 
the offeror or contractor when there is no other means for determining 
a fair and reasonable price. Contracting officers shall obtain data 
other than certified cost or pricing data from the offeror or 
contractor for all acquisitions (including commercial item 
acquisitions), if that is the contracting officer's only means to 
determine the price to be fair and reasonable.
    (2) * * *
    (i) * * * Normally, adequate price competition establishes a fair 
and reasonable price (see 15.403-1(c)(1)).
    (ii) Comparison of the proposed prices to historical prices paid, 
whether by the Government or other than the Government, for the same or 
similar items. This method may be used for commercial items including 
those ``of a type'' or requiring minor modifications.
    (A) The prior price must be a valid basis for comparison. If there 
has been a significant time lapse between the last acquisition and the 
present one, if the terms and conditions of the acquisition are 
significantly different, or if the reasonableness of the prior price is 
uncertain, then the prior price may not be a valid basis for 
comparison.
    (B) The prior price must be adjusted to account for materially 
differing terms and conditions, quantities and market and economic 
factors. For similar items, the contracting officer must also adjust 
the prior price to account for material differences between the similar 
item and the item being procured.
    (C) Expert technical advice should be obtained when analyzing 
similar items, or commercial items that are ``of a type'' or requiring 
minor modifications, to ascertain the magnitude of changes required and 
to assist in pricing the required changes.
* * * * *
    (vii) Analysis of data other than certified cost or pricing data 
(as defined at 2.101) provided by the offeror.
* * * * *
    (c) * * * (1) Cost analysis is the review and evaluation of any 
separate cost elements and profit or fee in an offeror's or 
contractor's proposal, as needed to determine a fair and reasonable 
price or to determine cost realism, and the application of judgment to 
determine how well the proposed costs represent what the cost of the 
contract should be, assuming reasonable economy and efficiency.
* * * * *
    (2) * * *
    (v) Review to determine whether any cost data or pricing data, 
necessary to make the offeror's proposal suitable for negotiation, have 
not been either submitted or identified in writing by the offeror. If 
there are such data, the contracting officer shall attempt to obtain 
and use them in the negotiations or make satisfactory allowance for the 
incomplete data.
* * * * *
    (e) * * *

[[Page 53146]]

    (3) The contracting officer should request technical assistance in 
evaluating pricing related to items that are ``similar to'' items being 
purchased, or commercial items that are ``of a type'' or requiring 
minor modifications, to ascertain the magnitude of changes required and 
to assist in pricing the required changes.
* * * * *

0
17. Amend section 15.404-2 by--
0
a. Revising the section heading;
0
b. Removing from the second sentence in paragraph (a)(1) and the 
introductory text of paragraph (a)(2) ``must'' and adding ``shall'' in 
its place;
0
c. Revising the introductory text of paragraph (a)(2)(iii) and 
paragraph (a)(2)(iii)(F); and
0
d. Removing from the introductory text of paragraph (c)(1) ``may'' and 
adding ``should'' in its place.
    The revised text reads as follows:


15.404-2  Data to support proposal analysis.

    (a) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (iii) Information to help contracting officers determine 
commerciality and a fair and reasonable price, including--
* * * * *
    (F) Identifying general market conditions affecting determinations 
of commerciality and a fair and reasonable price.
* * * * *

0
18. Amend section 15.404-3 by--
0
a. Revising paragraphs (a) and (b)(3);
0
b. Revising the introductory text of paragraph (c);
0
c. Removing from the introductory text of paragraph (c)(1) 
``subcontractor(s), cost'' and adding ``subcontractor(s), certified 
cost'' in its place;
0
d. Removing from paragraph (c)(1)(ii) ``pertinent cost'' and adding 
``pertinent certified cost'' in its place;
0
e. Revising paragraph (c)(2);
0
f. Removing from paragraphs (c)(3) and (c)(4) ``Subcontractor cost'' 
and adding ``Subcontractor certified cost'' in its place; and
0
g. Removing from paragraph (c)(5) ``Government cost'' and adding 
``Government certified cost'' in its place.
    The revised text reads as follows:


15.404-3  Subcontract pricing considerations.

    (a) The contracting officer is responsible for the determination of 
a fair and reasonable price for the prime contract, including 
subcontracting costs. The contracting officer should consider whether a 
contractor or subcontractor has an approved purchasing system, has 
performed cost or price analysis of proposed subcontractor prices, or 
has negotiated the subcontract prices before negotiation of the prime 
contract, in determining the reasonableness of the prime contract 
price. This does not relieve the contracting officer from the 
responsibility to analyze the contractor's submission, including 
subcontractor's certified cost or pricing data.
    (b) * * *
    (3) When required by paragraph (c) of this subsection, submit 
subcontractor certified cost or pricing data to the Government as part 
of its own certified cost or pricing data.
    (c) Any contractor or subcontractor that is required to submit 
certified cost or pricing data also shall obtain and analyze certified 
cost or pricing data before awarding any subcontract, purchase order, 
or modification expected to exceed the certified cost or pricing data 
threshold, unless an exception in 15.403-1(b) applies to that action.
* * * * *
    (2) The contracting officer should require the contractor or 
subcontractor to submit to the Government (or cause submission of) 
subcontractor certified cost or pricing data below the thresholds in 
paragraph (c)(1) of this subsection and data other than certified cost 
or pricing data that the contracting officer considers necessary for 
adequately pricing the prime contract.
* * * * *

0
19. Amend section 15.406-2 by revising the introductory text of 
paragraph (a), and paragraph (e) to read as follows:


15.406-2  Certificate of current cost or pricing data.

    (a) When certified cost or pricing data are required, the 
contracting officer shall require the contractor to execute a 
Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing Data, using the format in this 
paragraph, and must include the executed certificate in the contract 
file.
* * * * *
    (e) If certified cost or pricing data are requested by the 
Government and submitted by an offeror, but an exception is later found 
to apply, the data shall not be considered certified cost or pricing 
data and shall not be certified in accordance with this subsection.

0
20. Amend section 15.406-3 by revising paragraphs (a)(5) and (a)(6), 
and the second and third sentences of paragraph (a)(7) to read as 
follows:


15.406-3  Documenting the negotiation.

    (a) * * *
    (5) If certified cost or pricing data were not required in the case 
of any price negotiation exceeding the certified cost or pricing data 
threshold, the exception used and the basis for it.
    (6) If certified cost or pricing data were required, the extent to 
which the contracting officer--
    (i) Relied on the certified cost or pricing data submitted and used 
them in negotiating the price;
    (ii) Recognized as inaccurate, incomplete, or noncurrent any 
certified cost or pricing data submitted; the action taken by the 
contracting officer and the contractor as a result; and the effect of 
the defective data on the price negotiated; or
    (iii) Determined that an exception applied after the data were 
submitted and, therefore, considered not to be certified cost or 
pricing data.
    (7) * * * Where the determination of a fair and reasonable price is 
based on cost analysis, the summary shall address each major cost 
element. When determination of a fair and reasonable price is based on 
price analysis, the summary shall include the source and type of data 
used to support the determination.
* * * * *

0
21. Amend section 15.407-1 by--
0
a. Revising the section heading;
0
b. Removing from the first sentence in paragraph (a) ``any cost'' and 
adding ``any certified cost'' in its place;
0
c. Revising paragraph (b)(1);
0
d. Removing from paragraphs (b)(2) and (b)(3)(ii) ``the cost'' and 
adding ``the certified cost'' in its place;
0
e. Revising paragraph (b)(3)(iv);
0
f. Removing from paragraph (b)(4) ``understated cost'' and adding 
``understated certified cost'' in its place;
0
g. Removing from paragraph (b)(5)(ii) ``the cost'' and adding ``the 
certified cost'' in its place;
0
h. Removing from the first sentence in paragraph (b)(7)(iii) 
``defective cost'' and adding ``defective certified cost'' in its 
place;
0
i. Removing from the first sentence in paragraph (e) ``Defective Cost'' 
each time it appears (twice) and adding ``Defective Certified Cost'' in 
its place; and
0
j. Removing from the first sentence in the introductory text of 
paragraph (f) and the first sentence of paragraph (f)(2) 
``subcontractor cost'' and adding ``subcontractor certified cost'' in 
its place.
    The revised text reads as follows:


15.407-1  Defective certified cost or pricing data.

* * * * *
    (b)(1) If, after award, certified cost or pricing data are found to 
be inaccurate,

[[Page 53147]]

incomplete, or noncurrent as of the date of final agreement on price or 
an earlier date agreed upon by the parties given on the contractor's or 
subcontractor's Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing Data, the 
Government is entitled to a price adjustment, including profit or fee, 
of any significant amount by which the price was increased because of 
the defective data. This entitlement is ensured by including in the 
contract one of the clauses prescribed in 15.408(b) and (c) and is set 
forth in the clauses at 52.215-10, Price Reduction for Defective 
Certified Cost or Pricing Data, and 52.215-11, Price Reduction for 
Defective Certified Cost or Pricing Data--Modifications. The clauses 
give the Government the right to a price adjustment for defects in 
certified cost or pricing data submitted by the contractor, a 
prospective subcontractor, or an actual subcontractor.
* * * * *
    (3) * * *
    (iv) Certified cost or pricing data were required; however, the 
contractor or subcontractor did not submit a Certificate of Current 
Cost or Pricing Data relating to the contract.
* * * * *


15.407-2  [Amended]

0
22. Amend section 15.407-2 in paragraph (c)(1) by removing ``requiring 
cost'' and adding ``requiring certified cost'' in its place.

0
23. Amend section 15.407-3 by revising paragraph (a) to read as 
follows:


15.407-3  Forward pricing rate agreements.

    (a) When certified cost or pricing data are required, offerors are 
required to describe any forward pricing rate agreements (FPRAs) in 
each specific pricing proposal to which the rates apply and to identify 
the latest cost or pricing data already submitted in accordance with 
the FPRA. All data submitted in connection with the FPRA, updated as 
necessary, form a part of the total data that the offeror certifies to 
be accurate, complete, and current at the time of agreement on price 
for an initial contract or for a contract modification. (See the 
Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing Data at 15.406-2.)
* * * * *

0
24. Amend section 15.408 by--
0
a. Revising paragraphs (b), (c), (d), (e), and (g);
0
b. Removing from paragraph (j) ``that cost'' and adding ``that 
certified cost'' in its place;
0
c. Revising paragraph (k), the introductory text of paragraph (l), and 
paragraphs (l)(1), (l)(4), and (m); and
0
d. In Table 15-2, which follows paragraph (n), by--
0
1. Revising the table heading, the introductory text, and Notes 1 and 
2;
0
2. Revising the first sentence of paragraph B., and paragraph C. of the 
I. General Instructions; and
0
3. Revising the introductory text of paragraph A. and paragraph A.(2) 
of the II. Cost Elements.
    The revised text reads as follows:


15.408  Solicitation provisions and contract clauses.

* * * * *
    (b) Price Reduction for Defective Certified Cost or Pricing Data. 
The contracting officer shall, when contracting by negotiation, insert 
the clause at 52.215-10, Price Reduction for Defective Certified Cost 
or Pricing Data, in solicitations and contracts when it is contemplated 
that certified cost or pricing data will be required from the 
contractor or any subcontractor (see 15.403-4).
    (c) Price Reduction for Defective Certified Cost or Pricing Data--
Modifications. The contracting officer shall, when contracting by 
negotiation, insert the clause at 52.215-11, Price Reduction for 
Defective Certified Cost or Pricing Data--Modifications, in 
solicitations and contracts when it is contemplated that certified cost 
or pricing data will be required from the contractor or any 
subcontractor (see 15.403-4) for the pricing of contract modifications, 
and the clause prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section has not been 
included.
    (d) Subcontractor Certified Cost or Pricing Data. The contracting 
officer shall insert the clause at 52.215-12, Subcontractor Certified 
Cost or Pricing Data, in solicitations and contracts when the clause 
prescribed in paragraph (b) of this section is included.
    (e) Subcontractor Certified Cost or Pricing Data--Modifications. 
The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.215-13, 
Subcontractor Certified Cost or Pricing Data--Modifications, in 
solicitations and contracts when the clause prescribed in paragraph (c) 
of this section is included.
* * * * *
    (g) Pension Adjustments and Asset Reversions. The contracting 
officer shall insert the clause at 52.215-15, Pension Adjustments and 
Asset Reversions, in solicitations and contracts for which it is 
anticipated that certified cost or pricing data will be required or for 
which any preaward or postaward cost determinations will be subject to 
part 31.
* * * * *
    (k) Notification of Ownership Changes. The contracting officer 
shall insert the clause at 52.215-19, Notification of Ownership 
Changes, in solicitations and contracts for which it is contemplated 
that certified cost or pricing data will be required or for which any 
preaward or postaward cost determination will be subject to subpart 
31.2.
    (l) Requirements for Certified Cost or Pricing Data and Data Other 
Than Certified Cost or Pricing Data. Considering the hierarchy at 
15.402, the contracting officer shall insert the provision at 52.215-
20, Requirements for Certified Cost or Pricing Data and Data Other Than 
Certified Cost or Pricing Data, in solicitations if it is reasonably 
certain that certified cost or pricing data or data other than 
certified cost or pricing data will be required. This provision also 
provides instructions to offerors on how to request an exception from 
the requirement to submit certified cost or pricing data. The 
contracting officer shall--
    (1) Use the provision with its Alternate I to specify a format for 
certified cost or pricing data other than the format required by Table 
15-2 of this section;
* * * * *
    (4) Replace the basic provision with its Alternate IV if certified 
cost or pricing data are not expected to be required because an 
exception may apply, but data other than certified cost or pricing data 
will be required as described in 15.403-3.
    (m) Requirements for Certified Cost or Pricing Data and Data Other 
Than Certified Cost or Pricing Data--Modifications. Considering the 
hierarchy at 15.402, the contracting officer shall insert the clause at 
52.215-21, Requirements for Certified Cost or Pricing Data and Data 
Other Than Certified Cost or Pricing Data--Modifications, in 
solicitations and contracts if it is reasonably certain that certified 
cost or pricing data or data other than certified cost or pricing data 
will be required for modifications. This clause also provides 
instructions to contractors on how to request an exception from the 
requirement to submit certified cost or pricing data. The contracting 
officer shall--
    (1) Use the clause with its Alternate I to specify a format for 
certified cost or pricing data other than the format required by Table 
15-2 of this section;
    (2) Use the clause with its Alternate II if copies of the proposal 
are to be sent to the ACO and contract auditor;

[[Page 53148]]

    (3) Use the clause with its Alternate III if submission via 
electronic media is required; and
    (4) Replace the basic clause with its Alternate IV if certified 
cost or pricing data are not expected to be required because an 
exception may apply, but data other than certified cost or pricing data 
will be required as described in 15.403-3.
* * * * *

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

    This document provides instructions for preparing a contract 
pricing proposal when certified cost or pricing data are required.

    Note 1:  There is a clear distinction between submitting 
certified cost or pricing data and merely making available books, 
records, and other documents without identification. The requirement 
for submission of certified cost or pricing data is met when all 
accurate certified cost or pricing data reasonably available to the 
offeror have been submitted, either actually or by specific 
identification, to the Contracting Officer or an authorized 
representative. As later data come into your possession, it should 
be submitted promptly to the Contracting Officer in a manner that 
clearly shows how the data relate to the offeror's price proposal. 
The requirement for submission of certified cost or pricing data 
continues up to the time of agreement on price, or an earlier date 
agreed upon between the parties if applicable.


    Note 2:  By submitting your proposal, you grant the Contracting 
Officer or an authorized representative the right to examine records 
that formed the basis for the pricing proposal. That examination can 
take place at any time before award. It may include those books, 
records, documents, and other types of factual data (regardless of 
form or whether the data are specifically referenced or included in 
the proposal as the basis for pricing) that will permit an adequate 
evaluation of the proposed price.

I. General Instructions

* * * * *
    B. In submitting your proposal, you must include an index, 
appropriately referenced, of all the certified cost or pricing data and 
information accompanying or identified in the proposal. * * *
    C. As part of the specific information required, you must submit, 
with your proposal--
    (1) Certified cost or pricing data (as defined at FAR 2.101). You 
must clearly identify on your cover sheet that certified cost or 
pricing data are included as part of the proposal.
    (2) Information reasonably required to explain your estimating 
process, including--
    (i) The judgmental factors applied and the mathematical or other 
methods used in the estimate, including those used in projecting from 
known data; and
    (ii) The nature and amount of any contingencies included in the 
proposed price.
* * * * *

II. Cost Elements

* * * * *
    A. Materials and services. Provide a consolidated priced summary of 
individual material quantities included in the various tasks, orders, 
or contract line items being proposed and the basis for pricing (vendor 
quotes, invoice prices, etc.). Include raw materials, parts, 
components, assemblies, and services to be produced or performed by 
others. For all items proposed, identify the item and show the source, 
quantity, and price. Conduct price analyses of all subcontractor 
proposals. Conduct cost analyses for all subcontracts when certified 
cost or pricing data are submitted by the subcontractor. Include these 
analyses as part of your own certified cost or pricing data submissions 
for subcontracts expected to exceed the appropriate threshold in FAR 
15.403-4. Submit the subcontractor certified cost or pricing data and 
data other than certified cost or pricing data as part of your own 
certified cost or pricing data as required in paragraph IIA(2) of this 
table. These requirements also apply to all subcontractors if required 
to submit certified cost or pricing data.
* * * * *
    (2) All Other. Obtain certified cost or pricing data from 
prospective sources for those acquisitions (such as subcontracts, 
purchase orders, material order, etc.) exceeding the threshold set 
forth in FAR 15.403-4 and not otherwise exempt, in accordance with FAR 
15.403-1(b) (i.e., adequate price competition, commercial items, prices 
set by law or regulation or waiver). Also provide data showing the 
basis for establishing source and reasonableness of price. In addition, 
provide a summary of your cost analysis and a copy of certified cost or 
pricing data submitted by the prospective source in support of each 
subcontract, or purchase order that is the lower of either $12.5 
million or more, or both more than the pertinent certified cost or 
pricing data threshold and more than 10 percent of the prime 
contractor's proposed price. Also submit any information reasonably 
required to explain your estimating process (including the judgmental 
factors applied and the mathematical or other methods used in the 
estimate, including those used in projecting from known data, and the 
nature and amount of any contingencies included in the price). The 
Contracting Officer may require you to submit cost or pricing data in 
support of proposals in lower amounts. Subcontractor certified cost or 
pricing data must be accurate, complete and current as of the date of 
final price agreement, or an earlier date agreed upon by the parties, 
given on the prime contractor's Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing 
Data. The prime contractor is responsible for updating a prospective 
subcontractor's data. For standard commercial items fabricated by the 
offeror that are generally stocked in inventory, provide a separate 
cost breakdown, if priced based on cost. For interorganizational 
transfers priced at cost, provide a separate breakdown of cost 
elements. Analyze the certified cost or pricing data and submit the 
results of your analysis of the prospective source's proposal. When 
submission of a prospective source's certified cost or pricing data is 
required as described in this paragraph, it must be included as part of 
your own certified cost or pricing data. You must also submit any data 
other than certified cost or pricing data obtained from a 
subcontractor, either actually or by specific identification, along 
with the results of any analysis performed on that data.
* * * * *

PART 16--TYPES OF CONTRACTS


16.202-2  [Amended]

0
25. Amend section 16.202-2 by removing from paragraph (b) ``valid 
cost'' and adding ``valid certified cost'' in its place.

0
26. Amend section 16.203-2 by revising paragraph (b) to read as 
follows:


16.203-2  Application.

* * * * *
    (b) In contracts that do not require submission of certified cost 
or pricing data, the contracting officer shall obtain adequate data to 
establish the base level from which adjustment will be made and may 
require verification of data submitted.

0
27. Amend section 16.603-2 by revising the first sentence of paragraph 
(c) to read as follows:


16.603-2  Application.

* * * * *
    (c) Each letter contract shall, as required by the clause at 
52.216-25, Contract Definitization, contain a negotiated definitization 
schedule including (1) dates for submission of the contractor's price 
proposal, required certified cost or pricing data and data

[[Page 53149]]

other than certified cost or pricing data; and, if required, make-or-
buy and subcontracting plans, (2) a date for the start of negotiations, 
and (3) a target date for definitization, which shall be the earliest 
practicable date for definitization. * * *
* * * * *

0
28. Amend section 16.603-4 by revising the second sentence of paragraph 
(b)(3) to read as follows:


16.603-4  Contract clauses.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (3) * * * If at the time of entering into the letter contract, the 
contracting officer knows that the definitive contract will be based on 
adequate price competition or will otherwise meet the criteria of 
15.403-1 for not requiring submission of certified cost or pricing 
data, the words ``and certified cost or pricing data in accordance with 
FAR 15.408, Table 15-2 supporting its proposal'' may be deleted from 
paragraph (a) of the clause. * * *
* * * * *

PART 19--SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAMS

0
29. Amend section 19.705-4 by--
0
a. Removing from the introductory text and paragraph (a) introductory 
text ``must'' and adding ``shall'' in its place; and
0
b. Revising paragraph (d)(3) to read as follows:


19.705-4  Reviewing the subcontracting plan.

* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (3) Ensure that the subcontracting goals are consistent with the 
offeror's certified cost or pricing data or data other than certified 
cost or pricing data.
* * * * *

0
30. Amend section 19.806 by revising the second and third sentences of 
paragraph (a) to read as follows:


19.806  Pricing the 8(a) contract.

    (a) * * * If required by subpart 15.4, the SBA shall obtain 
certified cost or pricing data from the 8(a) contractor. If the SBA 
requests audit assistance to determine the proposed price to be fair 
and reasonable in a sole source acquisition, the contracting activity 
shall furnish it to the extent it is available.
* * * * *


19.807  [Amended]

0
31. Amend section 19.807 by removing from paragraph (b) ``including 
cost'' and adding ``including certified cost'' in its place.

PART 27--PATENTS, DATA, AND COPYRIGHTS


27.202-5  [Amended]

0
32. Amend section 27.202-5 by removing from paragraph (a)(1)(i) ``which 
cost'' and adding ``which certified cost'' in its place.

PART 30--COST ACCOUNTING STANDARDS ADMINISTRATION


30.201-5  [Amended]

0
33. Amend section 30.201-5 in paragraph (c)(6) by removing ``Whether 
cost'' and adding ``Whether certified cost'' in its place.

PART 31--CONTRACT COST PRINCIPLES AND PROCEDURES


31.205-6  [Amended]

0
34. Amend section 31.205-6 in paragraph (j)(3)(i)(B), the second 
sentence of paragraph (j)(3)(ii), and the second sentence of paragraph 
(o)(5) by removing ``which cost'' and adding ``which certified cost'' 
in its place.

PART 32--CONTRACT FINANCING


32.601  [Amended]

0
35. Amend section 32.601 in paragraph (b)(2) by removing ``defective 
cost'' and adding ``defective certified cost'' in its place.


32.607-2  [Amended]

0
36. Amend section 32.607-2 in paragraph (g)(3) by removing ``Defective 
Cost'' and adding ``Defective Certified Cost'' in its place.

PART 33--PROTESTS, DISPUTES, AND APPEALS


33.207  [Amended]

0
37. Amend section 33.207 in paragraph (d) by removing ``regarding 
cost'' and adding ``regarding certified cost'' in its place.

PART 36--CONSTRUCTION AND ARCHITECT-ENGINEER CONTRACTS

0
38. Amend section 36.214 by--
0
a. Revising the introductory text of paragraph (b); and
0
b. Removing from paragraph (b)(1) ``of cost'' and adding ``of certified 
cost'' in its place.
0
The revised text reads as follows:


36.214  Special procedures for price negotiation in construction 
contracting.

* * * * *
    (b) The contracting officer shall evaluate proposals and associated 
certified cost or pricing data and data other than certified cost or 
pricing data and shall compare them to the Government estimate.
* * * * *

PART 42--CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION AND AUDIT SERVICES


42.705-1  [Amended]

0
39. Amend section 42.705-1 in paragraph (b)(5)(iii) by giving separate 
indention to paragraphs (b)(5)(iii)(A), (B), (C), and (D) and by 
removing from (b)(5)(iii)(D) ``of cost'' and adding ``of certified 
cost'' in its place.

0
40. Amend section 42.1304 by revising paragraph (d) to read as follows:


42.1304  Government delay of work.

* * * * *
    (d) The contracting officer shall retain in the file a record of 
all negotiations leading to any adjustment made under the clause, and 
related certified cost or pricing data, or data other than certified 
cost or pricing data.
0
41. Amend section 42.1701 by--
0
a. In paragraph (b), revising the first sentence, and removing the last 
sentence; and
0
b. Revising the second sentence of paragraph (c). The revised text 
reads as follows:


42.1701  Procedures.

* * * * *
    (b) The ACO shall obtain the contractor's forward pricing rate 
proposal and require that it include cost or pricing data that are 
accurate, complete, and current as of the date of submission (but see 
15.407-3(c)). * * *
    (c) * * * The agreement shall provide for cancellation at the 
option of either party and shall require the contractor to submit to 
the ACO and to the cognizant contract auditor any significant change in 
cost or pricing data used to support the FPRA.
* * * * *

PART 44--SUBCONTRACTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

0
42. Amend section 44.202-2 by revising paragraph (a)(8) to read as 
follows:


44.202-2  Considerations.

    (a) * * *
    (8) Has the contractor performed adequate cost or price analysis or 
price comparisons and obtained certified cost or pricing data and data 
other than certified cost or pricing data?
* * * * *

[[Page 53150]]


0
43. Amend section 44.303 by revising paragraph (c) to read as follows:


44.303  Extent of review.

* * * * *
    (c) Pricing policies and techniques, including methods of obtaining 
certified cost or pricing data, and data other than certified cost or 
pricing data;
* * * * *


44.305-3  [Amended]

0
44. Amend section 44.305-3 in paragraph (a)(1) by removing ``Cost'' and 
adding ``Certified cost'' in its place.

PART 45--GOVERNMENT PROPERTY


45.104  [Amended]

0
45. Amend section 45.104 by removing from paragraph (a)(4) ``of cost'' 
and adding ``of certified cost'' in its place.

PART 49--TERMINATION OF CONTRACTS


49.603-1  [Amended]

0
46. Amend section 49.603-1 in paragraph (b)(7)(x) of the agreement by 
removing ``defective cost'' and adding ``defective certified cost'' in 
its place.


49.603-2   [Amended]

0
47. Amend section 49.603-2 in paragraph (b)(8)(vii) of the agreement by 
removing ``defective cost'' and adding ``defective certified cost'' in 
its place.


49.603-3   [Amended]

0
48. Amend section 49.603-3 in paragraph (b)(7)(xv) of the agreement by 
removing ``defective cost'' and adding ``defective certified cost'' in 
its place.


49.603-4  [Amended]

0
49. Amend section 49.603-4 in paragraph (b)(4)(viii) of the agreement 
by removing ``defective cost'' and adding ``defective certified cost'' 
in its place.

PART 52--SOLICITATION PROVISIONS AND CONTRACT CLAUSES

0
50. Amend section 52.214-26 by--
0
a. Revising the date of the clause;
0
b. Revising the introductory text of paragraph (b); and
0
c. Removing from paragraph (e) ``of cost'' and adding ``of certified 
cost'' in its place.
    The revised text reads as follows:


52.214-26  Audit and Records--Sealed Bidding.

* * * * *

Audit and Records--Sealed Bidding (Oct 2010)

* * * * *
    (b) Certified cost or pricing data. If the Contractor has been 
required to submit certified cost or pricing data in connection with 
the pricing of any modification to this contract, the Contracting 
Officer, or an authorized representative of the Contracting Officer, 
in order to evaluate the accuracy, completeness, and currency of the 
certified cost or pricing data, shall have the right to examine and 
audit all of the Contractor's records, including computations and 
projections, related to--
* * * * *
0
51. Amend section 52.214-27 by--
0
a. Revising the section heading;
0
b. Revising the clause heading and date of the clause;
0
c. Removing from paragraph (a) ``of cost'' and adding ``of certified 
cost'' in its place;
0
d. Removing from paragraph (b) ``furnished cost'' and adding 
``furnished certified cost'' in its place; removing ``Contractor cost'' 
and adding ``Contractor certified cost'' in its place; and removing 
``(a) above'' and adding ``(a) of this clause'' in its place;
0
e. Removing from paragraph (c) ``(b) above'' and adding ``(b) of this 
clause'' in its place, and removing ``defective cost'' and adding 
``defective certified cost'' in its place;
0
f. Removing from paragraph (d)(1)(i) ``current cost'' and adding 
``current certified cost'' in its place; and removing from paragraph 
(d)(1)(ii) ``the cost'' and adding ``the certified cost'' in its place;
0
g. Removing from paragraph (d)(2)(i)(B) ``the cost'' and adding ``the 
certified cost'' in its place; and
0
h. Removing from paragraph (e)(2) ``submitted cost'' and adding 
``submitted certified cost'' in its place;
    The revised text reads as follows:


52.214-27   Price Reduction for Defective Certified Cost or Pricing 
Data--Modifications--Sealed Bidding.

* * * * *

Price Reduction for Defective Certified Cost or Pricing Data--
Modifications--Sealed Bidding (Oct 2010)

* * * * *

0
52. Amend section 52.214-28 by--
0
a. Revising the section heading;
0
b. Revising the clause heading and date of the clause;
0
c. Giving separate indention to paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) and by 
removing from paragraph (a)(1) ``of cost'' and adding ``of certified 
cost'' in its place;
0
d. Revising paragraph (b); and
0
e. Removing from paragraph (d) ``of cost'' and adding ``of certified 
cost'' in its place.
    The revised text reads as follows:


52.214-28  Subcontractor Certified Cost or Pricing Data--
Modifications--Sealed Bidding.

* * * * *

Subcontractor Certified Cost or Pricing Data--Modifications--Sealed 
Bidding (Oct 2010)

* * * * *
    (b) Before awarding any subcontract expected to exceed the 
threshold for submission of certified cost or pricing data at FAR 
15.403-4(a)(1), on the date of agreement on price or the date of 
award, whichever is later, or before pricing any subcontract 
modifications involving aggregate increases and/or decreases in 
costs, plus applicable profits, expected to exceed the threshold for 
submission of certified cost or pricing data at FAR 15.403-4(a)(1), 
the Contractor shall require the subcontractor to submit certified 
cost or pricing data (actually or by specific identification in 
writing), as part of the subcontractor's proposal in accordance with 
FAR 15.408, Table 15-2 (to include any information reasonably 
required to explain the subcontractor's estimating process such as 
the judgmental factors applied and the mathematical or other methods 
used in the estimate, including those used in projecting from known 
data, and the nature and amount of any contingencies included in the 
price), unless an exception under FAR 15.403-1(b) applies.
* * * * *
0
53. Amend section 52.215-2 by--
0
a. Revising the date of the clause;
0
b. Revising the introductory text of paragraph (c); and
0
c. Removing from introductory text of paragraph (g) ``paragraph (a)'' 
and adding ``paragraph (g)'' in its place; and removing from paragraph 
(g)(2) ``which cost'' and adding ``which certified cost'' in its place.
    The revised text reads as follows:


52.215-2  Audit and Records-Negotiation.

* * * * *

Audit and Records--Negotiation (Oct 2010)

* * * * *
    (c) Certified cost or pricing data. If the Contractor has been 
required to submit certified cost or pricing data in connection with 
any pricing action relating to this contract, the Contracting 
Officer, or an authorized representative of the Contracting Officer, 
in order to evaluate the accuracy, completeness, and currency of the 
certified cost or pricing data, shall have the right to examine and 
audit all of the Contractor's records, including computations and 
projections, related to--
* * * * *

0
54. Amend section 52.215-9 by--
0
a. Revising the date of Alternate I and paragraph (d)(1); and
0
b. Revising the date of Alternate II and paragraph (d)(1).
    The revised text reads as follows:

[[Page 53151]]

52.215-9  Changes or Additions to Make-or-Buy Program.

* * * * *
    Alternate I (Oct 2010). * * *
    (d) * * *
    (1) Support its proposal with certified cost or pricing data in 
accordance with FAR 15.408, Table 15-2 when required by FAR 15.403, 
and data other than certified cost or pricing data, to permit 
evaluation; and
* * * * *
    Alternate II (Oct 2010). * * *
    (d) * * *
    (1) Support its proposal with certified cost or pricing data in 
accordance with FAR 15.408, Table 15-2, when required by FAR 15.403, 
and data other than certified cost or pricing data, to permit 
evaluation; and
* * * * *

0
55. Amend section 52.215-10 by--
0
a. Revising the section heading;
0
b. Revising the clause heading and date of the clause;
0
c. Removing from paragraph (a)(1) ``furnished cost'' and adding 
``furnished certified cost'' in its place, and removing from paragraph 
(a)(2) ``Contractor cost'' and adding ``Contractor certified cost'' in 
its place;
0
d. Revising paragraph (b);
0
e. Removing from paragraph (c)(1)(i) ``current cost'' and adding 
``current certified cost'' in its place, and removing from paragraphs 
(c)(1)(ii) and (c)(2)(i)(B) ``the cost'' and adding ``the certified 
cost'' in its place; and
0
f. Removing from paragraph (d)(2) ``submitted cost'' and adding 
``submitted certified cost'' in its place.
    The revised text reads as follows:


52.215-10   Price Reduction for Defective Certified Cost or Pricing 
Data.

* * * * *

Price Reduction for Defective Certified Cost or Pricing Data (Oct 2010)

* * * * *
    (b) Any reduction in the contract price under paragraph (a) of 
this clause due to defective data from a prospective subcontractor 
that was not subsequently awarded the subcontract shall be limited 
to the amount, plus applicable overhead and profit markup, by which 
(1) the actual subcontract or (2) the actual cost to the Contractor, 
if there was no subcontract, was less than the prospective 
subcontract cost estimate submitted by the Contractor; provided, 
that the actual subcontract price was not itself affected by 
defective certified cost or pricing data.
* * * * *

0
56. Amend section 52.215-11 by--
0
a. Revising the section heading;
0
b. Revising the clause heading and date of the clause;
0
c. Removing from paragraph (a) ``of cost'' and adding ``of certified 
cost'' in its place;
0
d. Removing from paragraph (b) ``furnished cost'' and adding 
``furnished certified cost'' in its place; and removing ``Contractor 
cost'' and adding ``Contractor certified cost'' in its place;
0
e. Revising paragraph (c);
0
f. Removing from paragraph (d)(1)(i) ``current cost'' and adding 
``current certified cost'' in its place; and removing from paragraphs 
(d)(1)(ii) and (d)(2)(i)(B) ``the cost'' and adding ``the certified 
cost'' in its place; and
0
g. Removing from paragraph (e)(2) ``submitted cost'' and adding 
``submitted certified cost'' in its place.
    The revised text reads as follows:


52.215-11   Price Reduction for Defective Certified Cost or Pricing 
Data--Modifications.

* * * * *

Price Reduction for Defective Certified Cost or Pricing Data--
Modifications (Oct 2010)

* * * * *
    (c) Any reduction in the contract price under paragraph (b) of 
this clause due to defective data from a prospective subcontractor 
that was not subsequently awarded the subcontract shall be limited 
to the amount, plus applicable overhead and profit markup, by which 
(1) the actual subcontract or (2) the actual cost to the Contractor, 
if there was no subcontract, was less than the prospective 
subcontract cost estimate submitted by the Contractor; provided, 
that the actual subcontract price was not itself affected by 
defective certified cost or pricing data.
* * * * *

0
57. Amend section 52.215-12 by--
0
a. Revising the section heading;
0
b. Revising the clause heading and date of the clause;
0
c. Revising paragraph (a);
0
d. Removing from the introductory text of paragraph (c) and paragraph 
(c)(1) ``of cost'' and adding ``of certified cost'' in its place; and
0
e. Removing from paragraph (c)(2) ``Subcontractor Cost'' and adding 
``Subcontractor Certified Cost'' in its place.
    The revised text reads as follows:


52.215-12   Subcontractor Certified Cost or Pricing Data.

* * * * *

Subcontractor Certified Cost or Pricing Data (Oct 2010)

* * * * *
    (a) Before awarding any subcontract expected to exceed the 
threshold for submission of certified cost or pricing data at FAR 
15.403-4, on the date of agreement on price or the date of award, 
whichever is later; or before pricing any subcontract modification 
involving a pricing adjustment expected to exceed the threshold for 
submission of certified cost or pricing data at FAR 15.403-4, the 
Contractor shall require the subcontractor to submit certified cost 
or pricing data (actually or by specific identification in writing), 
in accordance with FAR 15.408, Table 15-2 (to include any 
information reasonably required to explain the subcontractor's 
estimating process such as the judgmental factors applied and the 
mathematical or other methods used in the estimate, including those 
used in projecting from known data, and the nature and amount of any 
contingencies included in the price), unless an exception under FAR 
15.403-1 applies.
* * * * *

0
58. Amend section 52.215-13 by--
0
a. Revising the section heading;
0
b. Revising the clause heading and date of the clause;
0
c. Removing from paragraph (a)(1) ``of cost'' and adding ``of certified 
cost'' in its place;
0
d. Revising paragraph (b); and
0
e. Removing from paragraph (d) ``of cost'' and adding ``of certified 
cost'' in its place;
    The revised text reads as follows:


52.215-13   Subcontractor Certified Cost or Pricing Data--
Modifications.

* * * * *

Subcontractor Certified Cost or Pricing Data--Modifications (Oct 2010)

* * * * *
    (b) Before awarding any subcontract expected to exceed the 
threshold for submission of certified cost or pricing data at FAR 
15.403-4, on the date of agreement on price or the date of award, 
whichever is later; or before pricing any subcontract modification 
involving a pricing adjustment expected to exceed the threshold for 
submission of certified cost or pricing data at FAR 15.403-4, the 
Contractor shall require the subcontractor to submit certified cost 
or pricing data (actually or by specific identification in writing), 
in accordance with FAR 15.408, Table 15-2 (to include any 
information reasonably required to explain the subcontractor's 
estimating process such as the judgmental factors applied and the 
mathematical or other methods used in the estimate, including those 
used in projecting from known data, and the nature and amount of any 
contingencies included in the price), unless an exception under FAR 
15.403-1 applies.
* * * * *


52.215-14   [Amended]

0
59. Amend section 52.215-14 by--
0
a. Revising the date of the clause to read ``(Oct 2010)''; and
0
b. Removing from the last sentence of paragraph (a) ``of cost'' and 
adding ``of certified cost'' in its place.


52.215-15   [Amended]

0
60. Amend section 52.215-15 by revising the date of the clause to read 
``(Oct 2010)''; and removing from paragraph (b)(2) and the second 
sentence of paragraph (c) ``which cost''

[[Page 53152]]

and adding ``which certified cost'' in its place.
0
61. Amend section 52.215-20 by--
0
a. Revising the section heading;
0
b. Revising the provision heading and date of the provision;
0
c. Revising the introductory text of paragraph (a); and removing from 
the first sentence of paragraph (a)(1) ``submitting cost'' and adding 
``submitting certified cost'' in its place;
0
d. Revising the introductory text of paragraph (b) and paragraph 
(b)(1);
0
e. Revising Alternate I; and
0
f. Revising the date of Alternate IV and paragraphs (a) and (b).
    The revised text reads as follows:


52.215-20   Requirements for Certified Cost or Pricing Data and Data 
Other Than Certified Cost or Pricing Data.

* * * * *

Requirements for Certified Cost or Pricing Data and Data Other Than 
Certified Cost or Pricing Data (Oct 2010)

    (a) Exceptions from certified cost or pricing data.
* * * * *
    (b) Requirements for certified cost or pricing data. If the 
offeror is not granted an exception from the requirement to submit 
certified cost or pricing data, the following applies:
    (1) The offeror shall prepare and submit certified cost or 
pricing data, data other than certified cost or pricing data, and 
supporting attachments in accordance with the instructions contained 
in Table 15-2 of FAR 15.408, which is incorporated by reference with 
the same force and effect as though it were inserted here in full 
text. The instructions in Table 15-2 are incorporated as a mandatory 
format to be used in this contract, unless the Contracting Officer 
and the Contractor agree to a different format and change this 
clause to use Alternate I.
* * * * *
    Alternate I (Oct 2010). As prescribed in 15.408(1) (and see 
15.403-5(b)(1)), substitute the following paragraph (b)(1) for 
paragraph (b)(1) of the basic provision:
    (b)(1) The offeror shall submit certified cost or pricing data, 
data other than certified cost or pricing data, and supporting 
attachments in the following format: [Insert description of the data 
and format that are required, and include access to records 
necessary to permit an adequate evaluation of the proposed price in 
accordance with 15.408, Table 15-2, Note 2. The description may be 
inserted at the time of issuing the solicitation, or the Contracting 
Officer may specify that the offeror's format will be acceptable, or 
the description may be inserted as the result of negotiations.]
* * * * *
    Alternate IV (Oct 2010). * * *
    (a) Submission of certified cost or pricing data is not 
required.
    (b) Provide data described below: [Insert description of the 
data and the format that are required, including the access to 
records necessary to permit an adequate evaluation of the proposed 
price in accordance with 15.403-3.]

0
62. Amend section 52.215-21 by--
0
a. Revising the section heading;
0
b. Revising the clause heading and date of the clause;
0
c. Revising the introductory text of paragraph (a); and removing from 
the introductory text of paragraph (a)(1) ``submitting cost'' and 
adding ``submitting certified cost'' in its place;
0
d. Removing from paragraph (a)(1)(ii)(A)(1) ``from cost'' and adding 
``from certified cost'' in its place;
0
e. Revising the introductory text of paragraph (b) and paragraph 
(b)(1);
0
f. Revising Alternate I; and
0
g. Revising the date of Alternate IV and paragraphs (a) and (b).
    The revised text reads as follows:


52.215-21   Requirements for Certified Cost or Pricing Data and Data 
Other Than Certified Cost or Pricing Data--Modifications.

* * * * *

Requirements for Certified Cost or Pricing Data and Data Other Than 
Certified Cost or Pricing Data--Modifications (Oct 2010)

    (a) Exceptions from certified cost or pricing data.
* * * * *
    (b) Requirements for certified cost or pricing data. If the 
Contractor is not granted an exception from the requirement to 
submit certified cost or pricing data, the following applies:
    (1) The Contractor shall submit certified cost or pricing data, 
data other than certified cost or pricing data, and supporting 
attachments in accordance with the instructions contained in Table 
15-2 of FAR 15.408, which is incorporated by reference with the same 
force and effect as though it were inserted here in full text. The 
instructions in Table 15-2 are incorporated as a mandatory format to 
be used in this contract, unless the Contracting Officer and the 
Contractor agree to a different format and change this clause to use 
Alternate I.
* * * * *
    Alternate I (Oct 2010). As prescribed in 15.408(m) and 15.403-
5(b)(1), substitute the following paragraph (b)(1) for paragraph 
(b)(1) of the basic clause.
    (b)(1) The Contractor shall submit certified cost or pricing 
data, data other than certified cost or pricing data, and supporting 
attachments prepared in the following format: [Insert description of 
the data and format that are required and include access to records 
necessary to permit an adequate evaluation of the proposed price in 
accordance with 15.408, Table 15-2, Note 2. The description may be 
inserted at the time of issuing the solicitation, or the Contracting 
Officer may specify that the offeror's format will be acceptable, or 
the description may be inserted as the result of negotiations.]
* * * * *
    Alternate IV (Oct 2010). * * *
    (a) Submission of certified cost or pricing data is not 
required.
    (b) Provide data described below: [Insert description of the 
data and the format that are required, including the access to 
records necessary to permit an adequate evaluation of the proposed 
price in accordance with 15.403-3.]

0
63. Amend section 52.216-25 by--
0
a. Revising the date of the clause;
0
b. Revising paragraph (a); and
0
c. Removing from the paragraph (b) ``and cost'' and adding ``and 
certified cost'' in its place.
    The revised text reads as follows:


52.216-25   Contract Definitization.

* * * * *

Contract Definitization (Oct 2010)

    (a) A -------- [insert specific type of contract] definitive 
contract is contemplated. The Contractor agrees to begin promptly 
negotiating with the Contracting Officer the terms of a definitive 
contract that will include (1) all clauses required by the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) on the date of execution of the letter 
contract, (2) all clauses required by law on the date of execution 
of the definitive contract, and (3) any other mutually agreeable 
clauses, terms, and conditions. The Contractor agrees to submit a --
------ [insert specific type of proposal (e.g., fixed-price or cost-
and-fee)] proposal, including data other than certified cost or 
pricing data, and certified cost or pricing data, in accordance with 
FAR 15.408, Table 15-2, supporting its proposal.
* * * * *


52.230-2   [Amended]

0
64. Amend section 52.230-2 by revising the date of the clause to read 
``(Oct 2010)''; and removing from the first sentences of paragraphs 
(a)(3) and (d) ``submitted cost'' and adding ``submitted certified 
cost'' in its place.


52.230-5   [Amended]

0
65. Amend section 52.230-5 by revising the date of the clause to read 
``(Oct 2010)''; and removing from the first sentence of paragraph 
(a)(3) and the introductory text of paragraph (d) ``submitted cost'' 
and adding ``submitted certified cost'' in its place.


52.232-17   [Amended]

0
66. Amend section 52.232-17 by revising the date of the clause to read 
``(Oct 2010)''; and removing from the first sentence of paragraph (a) 
``Defective Cost'' and adding ``Defective Certified Cost'' in its 
place.


52.244-2   [Amended]

0
67. Amend section 52.244-2 by--

[[Page 53153]]

0
a. Revising the date of the clause to read ``(Oct 2010)'';
0
b. Removing from paragraph (e)(1)(v) ``accurate cost'' and adding 
``accurate certified cost'' in its place;
0
c. Removing from paragraph (e)(1)(vii)(C) ``reason cost'' and adding 
``reason certified cost'' in its place; and
0
d. Removing from paragraphs (e)(1)(vii)(D) and (e)(1)(vii)(E) 
``subcontractor's cost'' and adding ``subcontractor's certified cost'' 
in its place.

[FR Doc. 2010-21026 Filed 8-27-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-EP-P