6.200
Scope of subpart
FAR 6.200 sets the stage for conducting full and open competition even when certain sources are excluded, ensuring compliance with statutory and policy requirements.
Overview
FAR 6.200 establishes the scope for Subpart 6.2, which outlines the policies and procedures for achieving full and open competition in federal contracting, even when certain sources are excluded from consideration. This section serves as the foundation for understanding how agencies can structure competitions to meet statutory requirements while still allowing for the exclusion of specific sources under defined circumstances. The intent is to balance the need for competition with other policy objectives, such as supporting small businesses or meeting national security requirements.
Key Rules
- Scope Definition
- This section clarifies that Subpart 6.2 covers the rules for conducting competitions after excluding one or more sources, ensuring that the remaining process still qualifies as full and open competition under the FAR.
- Policy Foundation
- It sets the stage for subsequent sections that detail when and how exclusions may be applied, and what procedures must be followed to maintain compliance.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must understand when and how to apply exclusions while still ensuring full and open competition.
- Contractors: Should be aware that exclusions may occur and understand the basis for such decisions.
- Agencies: Must ensure that exclusions are justified and documented according to the policies in Subpart 6.2.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to clarify the regulatory framework for competitions that exclude certain sources, such as set-asides for small businesses or other statutory programs.
- It impacts daily contracting by guiding how solicitations are structured and how competition is maintained.
- Common pitfalls include misunderstanding when exclusions are permissible or failing to document the rationale for exclusions properly.