[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 144 (Friday, July 30, 2021)]
[Unknown Section]
[Pages 41302-41315]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-15101]



[[Page 41301]]

Vol. 86

Friday,

No. 144

July 30, 2021

Part XX





Department of Defense





General Services Administration





National Aeronautics and Space Administration





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





Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

  Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 144 / Friday, July 30, 2021 / UA: Reg 
Flex Agenda  

[[Page 41302]]


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

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

48 CFR Ch. 1


Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

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

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

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

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

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

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

    Dated: March 12, 2021.
William F. Clark,
Director, Office of Government-wide Acquisition Policy, Office of 
Acquisition Policy, Office of Government-wide Policy.

                 DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR)--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
240.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN44
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-013, Breaches
                             of Personally
                             Identifiable Information.
241.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN56
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-016, Controlled
                             Unclassified Information
                             (CUI).
242.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN66
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-006; Definition
                             of Subcontract.
243.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN71
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-012, Rights to
                             Federally Funded
                             Inventions and Licensing
                             of Government-Owned
                             Inventions.
244.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN72
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-013, Exemption
                             of Commercial and COTS
                             Item Contracts From
                             Certain Laws and
                             Regulations.
245.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN73
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-014, Increasing
                             Task-Order Level
                             Competition.
246.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN90
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-007, Update of
                             Historically
                             Underutilized Business
                             Zone Program.
247.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN91
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-008, Small
                             Business Program
                             Amendments.
248.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN98
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-015, Improving
                             Consistency Between
                             Procurement & Non-
                             Procurement Procedures on
                             Suspension and Debarment.
249.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO08
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-005,
                             Explanations to
                             Unsuccessful Offerors on
                             Certain Orders Under Task
                             and Delivery Order
                             Contracts.
250.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO10
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-007,
                             Accelerated Payments
                             Applicable to Contracts
                             With Certain Small
                             Business Concerns.
251.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO11
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-008,
                             Prohibition on Criminal
                             History Inquiries by
                             Contractors Prior to
                             Conditional Offer.
252.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO12
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-010, Small
                             Business Innovation
                             Research and Technology
                             Transfer Programs.
253.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO17
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-013,
                             Certification of Women-
                             Owned Small Businesses.
254.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO18
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-016,
                             Rerepresentation of Size
                             and Socioeconomic Status.
255.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO19
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2021-001, Increased
                             Efficiencies With Regard
                             to Certified Mail, In-
                             Person Business, Mail,
                             Notarization, Original
                             Documents, Seals, and
                             Signatures.
256.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO22
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2021-008, Amendments
                             to the FAR Buy American
                             Act Requirements.
257.......................  FAR Acquisition Regulation         9000-AO23
                             (FAR); FAR Case 2021-005;
                             Disclosure of Beneficial
                             Owner in Federal
                             Contracting.
258.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO24
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2021-006,
                             Prohibition on Requiring
                             Disclosure of Political
                             Contributions.
259.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO25
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2021-007, Maximum
                             Award Price for Certain
                             Sole Source Manufacturing
                             Contracts.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


                  DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR)--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
260.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN29
                             Regulation: FAR Case 2016-
                             005; Effective
                             Communication Between
                             Government and Industry.
261.......................  FAR Acquisition Regulation         9000-AN31
                             (FAR); FAR Case 2015-038,
                             Reverse Auction Guidance.

[[Page 41303]]

 
262.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN32
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-005,
                             Whistleblower Protection
                             for Contractor Employees.
263.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN34
                             Regulation; FAR Case 2016-
                             002, Applicability of
                             Small Business
                             Regulations Outside the
                             United States.
264.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN35
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2016-011, Revision
                             of Limitations on
                             Subcontracting.
265.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN43
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-014, Use of
                             Acquisition 360 to
                             Encourage Vendor Feedback.
266.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN46
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-011, Section
                             508-Based Standards in
                             Information and
                             Communication Technology.
267.......................  Federal Regulation                 9000-AN59
                             Acquisition (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-019, Policy on
                             Joint Ventures.
268.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN78
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-020,
                             Construction Contract
                             Administration.
269.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN83
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-017,
                             Prohibition on Certain
                             Telecommunications and
                             Video Surveillance
                             Services or Equipment.
270.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN84
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-001, Analysis
                             for Equipment
                             Acquisitions.
271.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN86
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-003,
                             Substantial Bundling and
                             Consolidation.
272.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN87
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-004, Good Faith
                             in Small Business
                             Subcontracting.
273.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN92
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-009,
                             Prohibition on
                             Contracting With Entities
                             Using Certain
                             Telecommunications and
                             Video Surveillance
                             Services or Equipment.
274.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO04
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-004,
                             Application of the MPT to
                             Certain Task and Delivery
                             Orders.
275.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO13
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-011,
                             Implementation of FASC
                             Exclusion Orders.
276.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO16
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-012, Scope of
                             Review by Procurement
                             Center Representatives.
277.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO21
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2021-003, Update to
                             Certain Online References
                             in the FAR.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


                  DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR)--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
278.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AL82
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2011-001;
                             Organizational Conflicts
                             of Interest and Unequal
                             Access to Information.
279.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AM41
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2012-001;
                             Performance of Inherently
                             Governmental Functions
                             and Critical Functions.
280.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AM69
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2013-022; Extension
                             of Limitations on
                             Contractor Employee
                             Personal Conflicts of
                             Interest.
281.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AM95
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2015-023; Federal
                             Supply Schedule Order
                             Level Material.
282.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN39
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-003; Individual
                             Sureties.
283.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN48
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2015-037, Definition
                             of ``Information
                             Technology''.
284.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN57
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2017-018, Violation
                             of Arms Control Treaties
                             or Agreements With the
                             United States.
285.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN62
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-002, Protecting
                             Life in Global Health
                             Assistance.
286.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN75
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-016, Lowest
                             Price Technically
                             Acceptable Source
                             Selection Process.
287.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN79
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-021, Reserve
                             Officer Training Corps
                             and Military Recruiting
                             on Campus.
288.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN81
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2018-023, Taxes-
                             Foreign Contracts in
                             Afghanistan.
289.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN85
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-002,
                             Recreational Services on
                             Federal Lands.
290.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN94
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-010, Efficient
                             Federal Operations.
291.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AN99
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2019-016, Maximizing
                             Use of American-Made
                             Goods, Products and
                             Materials.
292.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO09
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2020-006,
                             Documentation of Market
                             Research.
293.......................  Federal Acquisition                9000-AO20
                             Regulation (FAR); FAR
                             Case 2021-002, Increased
                             Efficiencies With Regard
                             to In-Person Business,
                             Mail, and Signatures.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 41304]]

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

Proposed Rule Stage

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

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

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

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

241. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); Far Case 2017-016, 
Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   11/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   01/00/22  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

242. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); Far Case 2018-006; 
Definition of Subcontract

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   10/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   12/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   08/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   10/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

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

[[Page 41305]]

unless the FAR Council makes a determination not to eliminate a 
regulation.
    Paragraph (c) requires the FAR Council to review the FAR to assess 
every regulation that requires a prime contractor to include a specific 
clause in subcontracts for commercially available off-the-shelf items, 
unless the clause is required by law or Executive Order. Paragraph (c) 
also requires that revisions to the FAR be proposed to eliminate those 
regulations unless the FAR Council makes a determination not to 
eliminate a regulation.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   10/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   12/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   02/00/22  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   09/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   09/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 874 of the NDAA for 
FY 2020, which requires, when

[[Page 41306]]

awarding a task or delivery order in an amount greater than the 
simplified acquisition threshold, but not greater than $5.5 million, 
contracting officers, upon written request from an unsuccessful 
offeror, to provide a brief explanation as to why the offeror was 
unsuccessful, including the rationale for award and an evaluation of 
the significant weak or deficient factors in the offeror's offer.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   08/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   10/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208-
4949, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO08

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

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   08/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 1123 of the NDAA for 
FY 2020 (Pub. L. 116-92), which added at 41 U.S.C. 4714 and 10 U.S.C. 
2339 prohibitions related to criminal history inquiries on individuals 
competing for or applying to work on Federal contracts. Per the 
statute, a contractor may not request criminal history record 
information on an applicant for a position related to work under a 
contract before the contractor has extended a conditional offer to the 
applicant for that position. In addition, the Federal Government may 
not request criminal history record information on an individual or 
sole proprietor who is competing on a Federal Government contract, 
unless that individual is the apparently successful offeror. This 
proposed rule implements the statutory prohibition and the associated 
procedures and exceptions.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   09/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Jennifer Hawes, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969-7386, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO11

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

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   09/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   11/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   08/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

254.  Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020-016, 
Rerepresentation of Size and Socioeconomic Status

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the FAR to 
implement statutory requirements as

[[Page 41307]]

implemented by the Small Business Administration's final rule published 
October 16, 2020 (85 FR 66146), requiring contractors to rerepresent 
its size and economic status for all set-aside orders placed against 
full and open multiple award contracts, except those set-aside orders 
placed under FAR 8.4.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   02/00/22  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Dana Bowman, Procurement Analyst, DoD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, 
Phone: 202 803-3188, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO18

255.  Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2021-001, 
Increased Efficiencies With Regard to Certified Mail, In-Person 
Business, Mail, Notarization, Original Documents, Seals, and Signatures

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation to increase flexibilities and efficiencies 
regarding certified mail, in-person business, mail, notarization, 
original documents, seals, and signatures using digital and virtual 
technology. This would streamline certain essential contracting 
procedures.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   10/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   12/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 -969-7207, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO19

256.  Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2021-008, 
Amendments to the FAR Buy American Act Requirements

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are considering amending the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 8 of Executive Order 
14005, Ensuring the Future Is Made in All of America by All of 
America's Workers. Section 8 requires the Federal Acquisition 
Regulatory Council to consider amending the FAR to (1) replace the 
component test used to identify domestic end products and domestic 
construction materials with a test under which domestic content is 
measured by the value that is added to the product through U.S.-based 
production or U.S. job-supporting economic activity, (2) increase the 
threshold for the domestic content requirement, and (3) increase the 
price preferences for domestic end products and domestic construction 
materials. DoD, GSA, and NASA are seeking information that will assist 
in drafting a proposed rule that will meet the objectives of section 8.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   09/00/22  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Mahruba Uddowla, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605-2868, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO22

257.  FAR Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2021-005; 
Disclosure of Beneficial Owner in Federal Contracting

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement sections 885 and 6403 of the 
William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for 
Fiscal Year 2021. Section 885 requires that the Federal Awardee 
Performance and Integrity Information System include identifying 
information on the beneficial owner of a Federal contractor that is a 
corporation. Paragraph (c) of section 6403 directs the FAR to be 
changed to require certain offerors to disclose beneficial ownership 
information in their offers for contracts over the simplified 
acquisition threshold.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   02/00/22  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Mahruba Uddowla, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 703 605-2868, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO23

258.  Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2021-006, 
Prohibition on Requiring Disclosure of Political Contributions

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 735 of Division E of 
title VII of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (Pub. L. 116-
260) and similar sections in prior appropriations acts, which prohibit 
the Government from recommending or requiring an offeror on a Federal 
contract to disclose as a condition of its offer any payments the 
offeror has made to a candidate for election for Federal office or to a 
political committee.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   02/00/22  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Jennifer Hawes, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969-7386, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO24

259.  Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2021-007, 
Maximum Award Price for Certain Sole Source Manufacturing Contracts

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 864 of the William M. 
(Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 
2021. Section 864 amends the Small Business Act by modifying the 
maximum award price for sole source manufacturing contracts to $7 
million for the 8(a), Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), Historically 
Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone), and Service-Disabled Veteran-
Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) programs. This rule will change the 
current FAR thresholds for the 8(a) and HUBZone programs

[[Page 41308]]

from $7.5 million to the statutory threshold of $7 million. The 
thresholds for the WOSB and SDVOSB programs will remain unchanged at 
the current FAR $7 million threshold.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   09/00/21  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   11/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 208-
4949, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO25

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

Final Rule Stage

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule amending the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 887 of the 
NDAA for FY 2016 (Pub. L. 114-92). This law provides that Government 
acquisition personnel are permitted and encouraged to engage in 
responsible and constructive exchanges with industry. This change will 
permit and encourage Government acquisition personnel to engage in 
responsible and constructive exchanges with industry as part of market 
research as long as those exchanges are consistent with existing laws 
and regulations and promote a fair competitive environment.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   11/29/16  81 FR 85914
NPRM Comment Period End.............   03/02/17  .......................
Final Rule..........................   08/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

261. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2015-038, Reverse 
Auction Guidance

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement policies addressing 
the effective use of reverse auctions. Reverse auctions involve 
offerors lowering their pricing over multiple rounds of bidding in 
order to win Federal contracts. This change incorporates guidance from 
the Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) memorandum, ``Effective 
Use of Reverse Auctions,'' which was issued in response to 
recommendations from the GAO report, Reverse Auctions: Guidance is 
Needed to Maximize Competition and Achieve Cost Savings (GAO-14-108). 
Reverse auctions are one tool used by Federal agencies to increase 
competition and reduce the cost of certain items. Reverse auctions 
differ from traditional auctions in that sellers compete against one 
another to provide the lowest price or highest-value offer to a buyer. 
This change to the FAR will include guidance that will standardize 
agencies' use of reverse auctions to help agencies maximize competition 
and savings when using reverse auctions.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/07/20  85 FR 78815
NPRM Comment Period End.............   02/05/21  .......................
Final Rule..........................   09/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement 41 U.S.C. 4712, 
``Enhancement of Contractor Protection From Reprisal for Disclosure of 
Certain Information,'' and makes the pilot program permanent. The pilot 
was enacted on January 2, 2013, by section 828 of the National Defense 
Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year (FY) 2013. The rule clarifies 
that contractors and subcontractors are prohibited from discharging, 
demoting, or otherwise discriminating against an employee as a reprisal 
for disclosing to any of the entities such as agency Inspector Generals 
and Congress information that the employee reasonably believes is 
evidence of gross mismanagement of a Federal contract; a gross waste of 
Federal funds; an abuse of authority relating to a Federal contract; a 
substantial and specific danger to public health or safety; or a 
violation of law, rule, or regulation related to a Federal contract 
(including the competition for or negotiation of a contract.) This rule 
enhances whistleblower protections for contractor employees by making 
permanent the protection for disclosure of the aforementioned 
information, and ensuring that the prohibition on reimbursement for 
legal fees accrued in defense against reprisal claims applies to both 
contractors and subcontractors.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/26/18  83 FR 66223
NPRM Comment Period End.............   02/25/19  .......................
Final Rule..........................   08/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to support SBA's policy of 
including overseas contracts in agency small business contracting 
goals. SBA revised its regulation at 13 CFR 125.2, as finalized in its 
rule ``Acquisition Process: Task and Delivery Order Contracts, 
Bundling, Consolidation'' issued on October 2, 2013, to clarify that 
overseas contracting is not excluded from agency responsibilities to 
foster small business participation.
    In its final rule, SBA has clarified that, as a general matter, its 
small business contracting regulations apply

[[Page 41309]]

regardless of the place of performance. In light of these changes, 
there is a need to amend the FAR, both to support the changes to SBA's 
regulation, and to give agencies the tools they need, especially the 
ability to use set-asides to maximize opportunities for small 
businesses overseas.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   08/12/19  84 FR 39793
NPRM Comment Period End.............   10/11/19  .......................
Final Rule..........................   07/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/04/18  83 FR 62540
NPRM Comment Period End.............   02/04/19  .......................
Final Rule..........................   05/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to address the solicitation of 
contractor feedback on both contract formation and contract 
administration activities. Agencies would consider this feedback, as 
appropriate, to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their 
acquisition activities. The rule will create FAR policy to encourage 
regular feedback in accordance with agency practice (both for contract 
formation and administration activities) and a standard FAR 
solicitation provision to support a sustainable model for broadened use 
of the Acquisition 360 survey to elicit feedback on the pre-award and 
debriefing processes in a consistent and standardized manner. Agencies 
will be able to use the solicitation provision to notify interested 
sources that a procurement is part of the Acquisition 360 survey and 
encourage stakeholders to voluntarily provide feedback on their 
experiences of the pre-award process.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM...............................   07/23/18  83 FR 34820
ANPRM Comment Period End............   09/21/18  .......................
NPRM................................   09/15/20  85 FR 57177
NPRM Comment Period End.............   11/16/20  .......................
Final Rule..........................   08/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement regulatory changes 
made by the Small Business Administration (SBA), Small Business Mentor 
Prot[eacute]g[eacute] Programs, published on July 25, 2016 (81 FR 
48557), regarding joint ventures and to clarify policy on 8(a) joint 
ventures. The regulatory changes provide industry with a new way to 
compete for small business or socioeconomic set-asides using a joint 
venture made up of a mentor and a prot[eacute]g[eacute]. The 8(a) joint 
venture clarification prevents confusion on an 8(a) joint venture's 
eligibility to compete for an 8(a) competitive procurement.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/05/20  85 FR 34561
NPRM Comment Period End.............   08/04/20  .......................
Final Rule..........................   09/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

[[Page 41310]]

    RIN: 9000-AN59

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 855 of the 
NDAA for FY 2019 (Pub. L. 115-232). Section 855 requires, for 
solicitations for construction contracts anticipated to be awarded to a 
small business, notification to prospective offerors regarding agency 
policies or practices in complying with FAR requirements relating to 
the timely definitization of requests for equitable adjustment and 
agency past performance in definitizing such requests.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   04/01/20  85 FR 18181
NPRM Comment Period End.............   06/01/20  .......................
Final Rule..........................   07/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Dana L. Bowman, Procurement Analyst, General 
Services Administration, 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 
202 803-3188, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN78

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

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

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

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Camara Francis, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 550-0935, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN83

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are amending the FAR by implementing 
section 555 of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) 
Reauthorization Act for FY 2018 (Pub. L. 115-254), which requires 
equipment to be acquired using the method of acquisition most 
advantageous to the Government based on a case-by-case analysis of 
costs and other factors. Section 555 requires the methods of 
acquisition to be compared in the analysis to include, at a minimum: 
(1) Purchase; (2) long-term lease or rental; (3) short-term lease or 
rental; (4) interagency acquisition; or, (5) acquisition agreements 
with a State or local government. Section 555 exempts certain 
acquisitions from this required analysis.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   08/24/20  85 FR 52081
NPRM Comment Period End.............   10/23/20  .......................
Final Rule..........................   06/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are amending the Federal Acquisition 
Regulation (FAR) to implement section 863 of the National Defense 
Authorization Acts (NDAA) for FY 2016 and the Small Business 
Administration (SBA) implementing regulations requiring public 
notification of an agency's determination to substantially bundle or 
consolidate contract requirements.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   04/27/20  85 FR 23299
NPRM Comment Period End.............   06/26/20  .......................
Final Rule..........................   05/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Dana Bowman, Procurement Analyst, DoD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, 
Phone: 202 803-3188, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN86

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 1821 of the 
National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY 2017 and the Small 
Business Administration regulatory changes relating to small business 
subcontracting plans. Per section 1821, the final rule provides 
examples of activities that would be considered a failure to make a 
good faith effort to comply with a small business subcontracting plan. 
The rule also requires prime contractors with commercial subcontracting 
plans to include indirect costs, with some exceptions, in their 
subcontracting plan goals.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/03/20  85 FR 34155
NPRM Comment Period End.............   08/03/20  .......................

[[Page 41311]]

 
Final Rule..........................   05/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Dana L. Bowman, Procurement Analyst, General 
Services Administration, 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 
202 803-3188, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN87

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

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule..................   07/14/20  85 FR 42665
Interim Final Rule Effective........   08/13/20  .......................
Interim Final Rule..................   08/27/20  85 FR 53126
Interim Final Rule Comment Period      09/14/20  .......................
 End.
Interim Final Rule Comment Period      10/26/20  .......................
 End.
Interim Final Rule Effective........   10/26/20  .......................
Final Rule..........................   08/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

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

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

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

275. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2020-011, 
Implementation of FASC Exclusion Orders

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule..................   08/00/21  .......................
Interim Final Rule Comment Period      10/00/21  .......................
 End.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Kevin Funk, Supply Chain Risk Management Expert, 
DOD/GSA/NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 
357-5805, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO13

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: The purpose of this FAR case is to implement section 1811 
of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (15 
U.S.C. 644(l)(9)(A)), as implemented by the Small Business 
Administration's final rule published November 29, 2019 (84 FR 65647). 
15 U.S.C. 644(l)(9)(A) allows procurement center representatives to 
review solicitations without regard to whether the contract or order is 
set aside for small business, or reserved in the case of a multiple-
award contract, or whether the solicitation would result in a bundled 
or consolidated contract or order.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Direct Final Rule...................   06/00/21  .......................
Direct Final Rule Comment Period End   08/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

277.  Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2021-003, 
Update to Certain Online References in the Far

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule amending the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to replace FAR references to 
Federal Business Opportunities (FBO.gov) and Wage Determinations Online 
(WDOL.gov) with the System for Award Management (SAM.gov), because of 
their integration with and increased functionality of SAM.gov.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   05/00/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 41312]]

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover Sr., Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/
NASA (FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 501-
1448, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO21

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

Completed Actions

278. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2011-001; 
Organizational Conflicts of Interest and Unequal Access to Information

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are withdrawing the proposed rule to 
amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) titled: Organizational 
Conflicts of Interest. The decision not to proceed with a final rule 
has been made given the amount of time that has passed since 
publication of the proposed rule. Accordingly, this proposed rule is 
withdrawn and the FAR case is closed. Consideration of any future 
amendments to the FAR related to organizational conflicts of interest 
or unequal access to nonpublic information will be accomplished under a 
new FAR case.
    DoD, GSA and NASA issued a proposed rule on April 26, 2011 to amend 
the FAR to include guidance that will help the Government identify and 
address circumstances in which a Government contractor has an 
organizational conflict of interest. This rule will also provide 
safeguards to protect against unequal access to information, which 
harms the competitive acquisition process.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   03/19/21  86 FR 14863
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Mahruba Uddowla, Phone: 703 605-2868, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AL82

279. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2012-001; 
Performance of Inherently Governmental Functions and Critical Functions

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA were proposing to revise the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement acquisition-related 
requirements of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) Policy 
Letter 11-01, entitled ``Performance of Inherently Governmental and 
Critical Functions,'' published September 12, 2011 (65 FR 56227), with 
a correction published February 13, 2012 (77 FR 7609). This rule is 
withdrawn, and the FAR case closed because further research and 
deliberation is required. Any future amendments to the FAR related to 
implementing performance of inherently governmental and critical 
functions will be accomplished under a new FAR case and RIN.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   03/03/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Phone: 202 208-4949, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AM41

280. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2013-022; Extension 
of Limitations on Contractor Employee Personal Conflicts of Interest

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are withdrawing the proposed rule to 
amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) titled: Extension of 
Limitations on Contractor Employee Personal Conflicts of Interest. The 
decision not to proceed with a final rule was made on the basis that 
the requirements of the underlying statute that directed consideration 
of a FAR change have been met. Accordingly, this proposed rule is 
withdrawn and the FAR case is closed.
    DoD, GSA, and NASA issued a proposed rule on April 2, 2014 to amend 
the FAR to implement a section of the National Defense Authorization 
Act for Fiscal Year 2013 to extend the limitations on contractor 
employee personal conflicts of interest to apply to the performance of 
all functions that are closely associated with inherently governmental 
functions and contracts for personal services. This case is included in 
the FAR retrospective review of existing regulations under Executive 
Order 13563. Additional information is located in the FAR final plan 
(2016), available at: https://www.acquisition.gov/.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   03/19/21  86 FR 14862
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Mahruba Uddowla, Phone: 703 605-2868, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AM69

281. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2015-023; Federal 
Supply Schedule Order Level Material

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
50113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA were proposing to amend the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to clarify the authority to acquire order-
level materials (OLMs) when placing a task order or establishing a 
blanket purchase agreement (BPAs) against a Federal Supply Schedule 
(FSS) contract. However, the FAR Council agreed that a better course 
was for GSA to issue a rule to provide clarity in the General Services 
Administration Acquisition Regulation. GSA issued a final rule (83 FR 
3275) to clarify the authority to acquire OLMs when placing task or 
delivery orders placed against an FSS BPA or contract at 48 CFR 515, 
538 and 552. In light of the GSA regulatory action, the FAR rule is now 
being withdrawn.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   03/03/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Curtis E. Glover, Phone: 202 501-1448, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AM95

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to change the kinds of assets that 
individual sureties must use as security for their individual surety 
bonds. This change implements section 874 of the National Defense 
Authorization Act (NDAA) for

[[Page 41313]]

FY 2016 (Pub. L. 114-92), codified at 31 U.S.C. 9310, Individual 
Sureties. Individual sureties will no longer be able to pledge real 
property, corporate stocks, corporate bonds, or irrevocable letters of 
credit. The requirements of 31 U.S.C. 9310 are intended to strengthen 
the assets pledged by individual sureties, thereby mitigating risk to 
the Government.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   01/14/21  86 FR 3682
Final Rule Effective................   02/16/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Phone: 202 969-7207, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN39

283. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2015-037, 
Definition of ``Information Technology''

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA were proposing to revise the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to update the definition of ``information 
technology,'' to harmonize the definition with that in the Office of 
Management and Budget Memo, M-15-14, entitled Management Oversight of 
Federal Information Technology.'' This rule is withdrawn, and the FAR 
case closed to allow for discussions to work through differences 
between the current FAR definition and the definition in the OMB memo 
M-15-14. Any future amendments to the FAR related to the definition of 
``information technology'' will be accomplished under a new FAR case 
and RIN.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   03/03/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Camara Francis, Phone: 202 550-0935, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN48

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

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   01/14/21  86 FR 3677
Final Rule Effective................   02/16/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Phone: 202 208-4949, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN57

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. 137; 51 U.S.C. 20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are withdrawing the proposed rule to 
amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) titled: Protecting Life 
in Global Health Assistance. The decision not to proceed with a final 
rule has been made because the Presidential Memorandum regarding The 
Mexico City Policy,'' dated January 23, 2017, has been revoked by the 
Memorandum on Protecting Women's Health at Home and Abroad issued by 
President Biden on January 28, 2021. Accordingly, this proposed rule is 
withdrawn and the FAR case is closed.
    DoD, GSA, and NASA issued a proposed rule on September 14, 2020 to 
amend the FAR to implement Presidential Memorandum, ``The Mexico City 
Policy,'' issued on January 13, 2017, in accordance with the Department 
of State's implementation plan dated May 9, 2017. This rule would 
extend requirements of the memorandum and plans to new funding 
agreements for global health assistance furnished by all Federal 
departments or agencies. This expanded policy would cover global health 
assistance to include funding for international health programs, such 
as those for HIV/AIDS, maternal and child health, malaria, global 
health security, and certain family planning and reproductive health.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   03/19/21  86 FR 14863
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: FAR Policy, Phone: 202 969-4075, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN62

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement section 880 of the 
John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal 
Year (FY) 2019 to avoid using lowest price technically acceptable 
source selection criteria in circumstances that would deny the 
Government the benefits of cost and technical tradeoffs in the source 
selection process.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   01/14/21  86 FR 3679
Final Rule Effective................   02/16/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michael O. Jackson, Phone: 202 208-4949, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN75

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

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   10/23/20  85 FR 67619
Final Rule Effective................   11/23/20  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.

[[Page 41314]]

    Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Phone: 202 969-7207, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN79

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule to amend the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement the provisions on 
taxes, duties, and fees contained in the Security and Defense 
Cooperation Agreement (dated 2014) and the North Atlantic Treaty 
Organization Status of Forces Agreement (dated 2014) with the Islamic 
Republic of Afghanistan. Both Agreements exempt the United States 
Government, and its contractors and subcontractors (other than those 
who are Afghan legal entities or residents), from paying any tax or 
similar charge assessed on activities associated with contracts 
performed within Afghanistan. The Agreements also exempt the 
acquisition, importation, exportation, reexportation, transportation, 
and use of supplies and services in Afghanistan, by or on behalf of the 
United States Government, from any taxes, customs, duties, fees, or 
similar charges in Afghanistan.
    Completed:

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

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Kevin Funk, Phone: 202 357-5805, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN81

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

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   10/23/20  85 FR 67626
Final Rule Effective................   11/23/20  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Kevin Funk, Phone: 202 357-5805, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN85

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA were proposing to revise the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement Executive Order 13834, 
``Efficient Federal Operations,'' which directed Federal agencies to 
comply with statutory requirements related to energy and environmental 
performance in a manner that increases efficiency, maximizes 
performance, eliminates unnecessary use of resources, and protects the 
environment.
    However, Executive Order 13834 was partially revoked by Executive 
Order 13990, Protecting Public Health and the Environment and Restoring 
Science To Tackle the Climate Crisis. The sections of Executive Order 
13834 that remain in effect have no impact on the FAR; therefore, this 
rule is withdrawn and the FAR case is closed. Any future amendments to 
the FAR related to environmental issues or sustainable acquisition will 
be accomplished under a new FAR case and RIN.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   03/03/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Jennifer Hawes, Phone: 202 969-7386, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN94

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

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   01/19/21  86 FR 6180
Final Rule Effective................   01/19/21  .......................
Final Rule Correction...............   02/05/21  86 FR 8308
Final Rule Effective................   02/05/21  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Phone: 202 969-7207, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AN99

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

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: DoD, GSA, and NASA are issuing a final rule amending the 
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement a section of the 
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 that requires 
the head of the agency to document the results of market research in a 
manner appropriate to the size and complexity of the acquisition.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   10/23/20  85 FR 67623

[[Page 41315]]

 
Final Rule Effective................   11/23/20  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Camara Francis, Phone: 202 550-0935, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO09

293.  Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR); FAR Case 2021-002, 
Increased Efficiencies With Regard to In-Person Business, Mail, and 
Signatures

    Legal Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. ch. 137; 51 U.S.C. 
20113
    Abstract: FAR case 2021-002, Increased Efficiencies with Regard to 
In-Person Business, Mail, and Signatures, will be addressed in FAR case 
2021-001, Increased Efficiencies with Regard to Certified Mail, In-
person Business, Mail, Notarization, Original Documents, Seals, and 
Signatures.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Merged With FAR Case 2021-001, Rin     03/10/21  .......................
 9000-AO19.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Zenaida Delgado, Procurement Analyst, DOD/GSA/NASA 
(FAR), 1800 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20405, Phone: 202 969-7207, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 9000-AO20

[FR Doc. 2021-15101 Filed 7-29-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-EP-P