18.204
Humanitarian or peacekeeping operation
FAR 18.204 allows agencies to use a higher simplified acquisition threshold for contracts supporting humanitarian or peacekeeping operations, provided the agency head makes the required determination.
Overview
FAR 18.204 addresses special acquisition flexibilities for contracts supporting humanitarian or peacekeeping operations. It references the definition of such operations in FAR 2.101 and highlights that the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT) is increased for procurements supporting these missions, provided the head of the agency makes the appropriate determination. This allows agencies to use streamlined procurement procedures for a broader range of contract values when responding to humanitarian or peacekeeping needs, expediting the acquisition process during urgent or sensitive operations.
Key Rules
- Definition Reference
- Humanitarian or peacekeeping operations are defined in FAR 2.101, ensuring clarity and consistency in application.
- Increased Simplified Acquisition Threshold
- The SAT is raised for contracts supporting these operations, but only when the head of the agency formally determines the need.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must verify the operation qualifies under the FAR 2.101 definition and ensure the agency head's determination is documented before applying the higher SAT.
- Contractors: Should be aware that higher-value contracts may be processed under simplified procedures for these operations.
- Agencies: The head of the agency must make and document the determination that the procurement supports a humanitarian or peacekeeping operation.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to expedite acquisitions in support of urgent humanitarian or peacekeeping missions.
- It enables faster, less burdensome procurement for higher-value contracts in these scenarios.
- Common pitfalls include failing to obtain or document the required agency head determination or misapplying the definition of qualifying operations.