Disaster Response Registry
Contractors must register in SAM and opt into the Disaster Response Registry to be considered for disaster response contracts, and contracting officers must consult this registry before awarding such contracts.
Overview
FAR 26.205 establishes requirements for contracting officers and contractors regarding the Disaster Response Registry, which is used to identify vendors available for disaster or emergency relief activities such as debris removal, supply distribution, and reconstruction within the United States and outlying areas. Contracting officers must consult the Registry, accessible via SAM.gov, to determine the availability of qualified contractors for these activities. Contractors wishing to be considered for disaster response contracts must register in the System for Award Management (SAM) and opt into the Disaster Response Registry. The Registry can be searched using specific criteria to identify vendors who have volunteered for disaster response work.
Key Rules
- Consulting the Disaster Response Registry
- Contracting officers are required to check the Disaster Response Registry in SAM.gov to find available contractors for disaster or emergency relief activities.
- Contractor Registration Requirement
- Contractors must register in SAM and opt into the Disaster Response Registry to be considered for disaster response contracts.
- Vendor Identification
- The Registry can be searched using advanced search features in SAM.gov by selecting the "Disaster Response Contractors" criteria.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must consult the Disaster Response Registry in SAM.gov before awarding contracts for disaster or emergency relief activities.
- Contractors: Must register in SAM and opt into the Disaster Response Registry to be eligible for consideration.
- Agencies: Ensure contracting officers follow the required procedures and maintain oversight of disaster response contracting.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures that contracting officers have a reliable, centralized source to identify qualified contractors for urgent disaster response needs.
- Contractors who want to participate in disaster response must proactively register and maintain their information in SAM.
- Failure to register or consult the Registry may result in missed opportunities or non-compliance during disaster or emergency contracting.