General
The Federal Supply Schedule program streamlines federal procurement of commercial goods and services through pre-negotiated, competitively awarded contracts, with specific compliance requirements for establishing and using these schedules.
Overview
FAR 38.101 outlines the general framework for the Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) program, which streamlines the acquisition of commercial supplies and services for federal agencies. The FSS program leverages indefinite-delivery contracts awarded through competitive procedures, enabling agencies to purchase varying quantities at pre-negotiated prices, often with volume discounts. The General Services Administration (GSA) primarily manages the program but may delegate authority to other agencies, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs for specific items. The section also clarifies which agencies are required to use the schedules, and that non-mandatory users may also place orders, with contractors encouraged to accept them. It emphasizes that statutory and regulatory requirements (notably FAR Parts 5, 6, and 19) apply during acquisition planning for establishing schedules, but generally do not apply to orders or BPAs placed under existing schedule contracts, except as noted in FAR 8.404 and 8.405-5.
Key Rules
- Federal Supply Schedule Program Structure
- FSS provides a simplified, volume-discounted process for federal agencies to acquire commercial goods and services via indefinite-delivery contracts.
- Mandatory and Non-Mandatory Users
- Schedules specify which agencies must use them; others may use them at their discretion, and contractors are encouraged to accept such orders.
- Delegation of Authority
- While GSA manages most FSS contracts, it can authorize other agencies to award and manage schedules for specific needs.
- Regulatory Compliance
- Agencies establishing schedules must comply with applicable FAR requirements during acquisition planning, but these generally do not apply to orders placed under the schedules.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements when establishing schedules; identify mandatory users; follow proper procedures for orders and BPAs.
- Contractors: Provide supplies/services at agreed prices and terms; accept orders from both mandatory and non-mandatory users when possible.
- Agencies: Use schedules as required; comply with acquisition planning requirements; may be delegated authority to manage specific schedules.
Practical Implications
- The FSS program exists to streamline federal procurement, reduce administrative burden, and leverage government buying power.
- Contractors benefit from access to a broad federal market but must adhere to schedule terms and regulatory requirements.
- Common pitfalls include misunderstanding mandatory use requirements, improper application of FAR Parts 5, 6, and 19, and confusion over agency authority or order acceptance.