25.203
Preaward determinations
Offerors must follow solicitation instructions to request preaward determinations for Buy American statute exceptions on construction materials, and contracting officers must evaluate these requests before award.
Overview
FAR 25.203 outlines the process for preaward determinations regarding the inapplicability of the Buy American statute for specific construction materials in federal acquisitions. Offerors may request a determination from the contracting officer if they believe certain materials should be exempt. The solicitation specifies the timing and required supporting information for such requests, referencing the relevant FAR clauses (52.225-9, 52.225-10, 52.225-11, or 52.225-12). Contracting officers are responsible for evaluating these requests before contract award, using both the submitted data and any other readily available information.
Key Rules
- Offeror Requests for Determination
- Offerors can request a preaward determination on the inapplicability of the Buy American statute for identified construction materials, following solicitation instructions.
- Submission Requirements
- Requests must be submitted within the timeframe and with the supporting data specified in the solicitation (per the applicable FAR clauses).
- Contracting Officer Evaluation
- Contracting officers must evaluate all requests before award, considering both the offeror's information and other available data.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Evaluate preaward requests for Buy American statute inapplicability and document determinations.
- Contractors/Offerors: Submit timely, complete requests with all required supporting data as specified in the solicitation.
- Agencies: Ensure solicitations clearly specify procedures and requirements for such requests.
Practical Implications
- This section provides a formal process for seeking exceptions to the Buy American statute for construction materials, ensuring transparency and fairness.
- Contractors must pay close attention to solicitation instructions and deadlines to avoid disqualification.
- Common pitfalls include incomplete submissions or missing the specified request window, which can delay or jeopardize contract award.