Expiration
Expiration dates are mandatory for class D&Fs and optional for individual D&Fs, and authority under a D&F ends when exercised or upon expiration, with special provisions for solicitations issued before expiration.
Overview
FAR 1.706 outlines the requirements for expiration dates on Determinations and Findings (D&F) documents, which are formal justifications used in federal contracting. The regulation distinguishes between class D&Fs (covering multiple actions) and individual D&Fs (covering a single action), specifying when authority under these documents expires. For class D&Fs, an expiration date is mandatory, while for individual D&Fs, it is optional. The authority under an individual D&F ends either when the action is taken or when the specified expiration date is reached, whichever comes first. For class D&Fs, authority ends strictly on the expiration date. If a solicitation is issued before the D&F expires, the authority continues until contract award, even if the expiration date passes in the interim.
Key Rules
- Expiration Date Requirement
- Class D&Fs must have an expiration date; individual D&Fs may include one at the agency's discretion.
- Authority Duration
- Authority under an individual D&F ends when exercised or on the expiration date, whichever is earlier. For class D&Fs, authority ends on the expiration date.
- Solicitation Exception
- If a solicitation is issued before the D&F expires, the authority remains valid until contract award.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure D&Fs include required expiration dates and monitor authority periods.
- Contractors: Be aware of the validity period of D&Fs affecting their solicitations or contracts.
- Agencies: Oversee compliance with D&F expiration requirements and maintain proper documentation.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures that D&Fs are not open-ended and that their authority is clearly time-bound, reducing risk of unauthorized actions. Contractors should verify that D&Fs supporting their contracts are current and valid, especially when solicitations span expiration dates. Failure to comply can result in invalid contract actions or delays.