5.701
Scope
Any federal contract action funded by the Recovery Act must follow enhanced public notice requirements to ensure transparency.
Overview
FAR 5.701 defines the scope of Subpart 5.7, which establishes specific requirements for posting presolicitation and award notices for federal contract actions funded wholly or partially by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act). The primary goal is to increase transparency and public visibility into how Recovery Act funds are being used in federal contracting. This section serves as the foundation for the detailed requirements that follow in the subpart, making it clear that any contract action involving Recovery Act funds must adhere to enhanced public notice obligations.
Key Rules
- Applicability to Recovery Act Funding
- The requirements apply to any contract action funded in whole or in part by the Recovery Act.
- Enhanced Transparency
- The subpart mandates increased public disclosure through presolicitation and award notices.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must ensure that all relevant contract actions involving Recovery Act funds comply with the posting requirements outlined in this subpart.
- Contractors: Should be aware that their contract actions may be subject to additional public disclosure.
- Agencies: Responsible for oversight and ensuring compliance with transparency requirements.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to promote accountability and public trust in the use of Recovery Act funds.
- It impacts daily contracting by requiring additional steps for publicizing contract opportunities and awards.
- Common pitfalls include failing to identify Recovery Act funding or missing required postings, which can result in non-compliance.