General
FAR 13.500 allows streamlined, flexible acquisition procedures for commercial products and services up to $7.5 million (or $15 million in emergencies), reducing administrative burden for both government and contractors.
Overview
FAR 13.500 establishes the general framework for using simplified acquisition procedures for commercial products and services when the contract value exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold but does not exceed $7.5 million (or $15 million in certain circumstances). These procedures are designed to give contracting officers greater flexibility and discretion, streamlining the solicitation, evaluation, and award process to maximize efficiency and minimize administrative burden for both the government and industry. The section also clarifies that when using these procedures, the requirements of FAR Part 12 (Acquisition of Commercial Products and Commercial Services) apply, including the use of specific provisions and clauses, subject to the order of precedence in 12.102(c). Special authority is granted for acquisitions up to $15 million in support of contingency operations, emergency responses, or certain international assistance efforts, as determined by the head of the agency.
Key Rules
- Simplified Acquisition Procedures for Commercial Items
- May be used for acquisitions above the simplified acquisition threshold but not exceeding $7.5 million (or $15 million for certain emergency or contingency operations), provided only commercial products or services are expected to be offered.
- Applicability of FAR Part 12
- All acquisitions under this authority must comply with FAR Part 12 requirements, including relevant provisions and clauses.
- Expanded Thresholds for Special Circumstances
- The $15 million threshold applies for acquisitions supporting contingency operations, emergency response, or international disaster assistance, as determined by agency leadership.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must determine applicability, conduct market research, apply appropriate simplified procedures, and ensure compliance with FAR Part 12.
- Contractors: Must comply with commercial item requirements and respond to solicitations under simplified procedures.
- Agencies: Must designate authority for special threshold use and ensure oversight of proper application.
Practical Implications
- This section enables faster, less burdensome procurement for commercial items within specified dollar ranges, especially in urgent or emergency situations.
- Contracting officers have more discretion but must still ensure compliance with commercial item acquisition rules.
- Contractors benefit from streamlined processes but must be aware of the specific requirements and thresholds that apply.