7.107-5
Notifications
FAR 7.107-5 requires agencies to provide timely, transparent notifications to small businesses, the public, and the SBA when bundling or consolidating contract requirements, ensuring accountability and opportunities for small business participation.
Overview
FAR 7.107-5 outlines the notification requirements for agencies and contracting officers when planning to bundle or consolidate contract requirements, particularly those affecting small businesses. The regulation mandates timely and transparent communication to current small business contractors, the public, and the Small Business Administration (SBA) regarding the agency's intent and rationale for bundling or consolidating contracts. It also establishes procedures for publicizing these actions and requires annual reporting on bundled requirements.
Key Rules
- Notification to Small Business Contractors
- Contracting officers must notify current small business contractors at least 30 days before issuing a solicitation for a bundled requirement, including SBA contact information, and document this in the contract file.
- Public Notification of Bundling/Consolidation
- Agencies are encouraged or required to publish notices and rationales for bundled or consolidated requirements on the Governmentwide Point of Entry (GPE), with specific timing and content requirements.
- Notification to SBA for Follow-on Requirements
- For follow-on bundled or consolidated contracts, contracting officers must notify the SBA PCR with detailed information about savings, benefits, and changes at least 30 days before solicitation.
- Annual and Policy Notifications
- Agencies must annually publish a list and rationale for bundled requirements on their website and post the governmentwide bundling policy online.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must provide timely notifications to small business contractors and the SBA, document actions, and ensure public notices are published as required.
- Contractors: Should monitor notifications and public postings to stay informed about upcoming bundled or consolidated solicitations.
- Agencies: Must ensure compliance with notification, publication, and reporting requirements, including annual and policy postings.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures transparency and gives small businesses advance notice and opportunity to respond to bundled or consolidated procurements. Failure to comply can delay solicitations or result in challenges. Agencies must coordinate closely with the SBA and maintain thorough documentation to avoid compliance issues.