19.1502
Applicability
All federal agencies with contracting officers must follow the Women-Owned Small Business Program procedures in Subpart 19.15.
Overview
FAR 19.1502 establishes the applicability of the Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Program procedures outlined in Subpart 19.15. It clarifies that these procedures are mandatory for all federal agencies that have at least one contracting officer. This ensures a uniform approach to implementing the WOSB Program across the federal government, promoting consistency in how agencies provide contracting opportunities to women-owned small businesses.
Key Rules
- Universal Applicability
- All federal agencies with contracting officers must follow the procedures in Subpart 19.15 regarding the WOSB Program.
- Mandatory Compliance
- Agencies cannot opt out of these procedures if they employ contracting officers; compliance is not optional.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must implement and adhere to the WOSB Program procedures as outlined in Subpart 19.15.
- Contractors: Should be aware that all federal agencies are required to follow these procedures, ensuring equal opportunity.
- Agencies: Must ensure their contracting officers are trained and compliant with the WOSB Program requirements.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures that the WOSB Program is consistently applied across all federal agencies, reducing confusion and promoting fair access for women-owned small businesses.
- Contractors can expect uniform treatment regarding WOSB opportunities regardless of the agency.
- Agencies must ensure their contracting staff are aware of and follow the WOSB Program procedures, or risk non-compliance.