8.705
Procedures
FAR 8.705 mandates specific procedures for federal agencies to acquire goods and services from nonprofit agencies employing people who are blind or severely disabled, ensuring compliance with the JWOD Act.
Overview
FAR 8.705 outlines the procedures for acquiring supplies and services from nonprofit agencies employing people who are blind or severely disabled, as required under the Javits-Wagner-O'Day (JWOD) Act. This section details the steps contracting officers must follow, including general procedures, the direct-order process, the allocation process, and compliance with orders. The regulation ensures that federal agencies give priority to these nonprofit agencies when procuring certain products and services listed on the Procurement List maintained by the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled.
Key Rules
- General Procedures
- Contracting officers must follow specific procedures when acquiring items from designated nonprofit agencies.
- Direct-Order Process
- Agencies may place orders directly with the nonprofit agency if the item is on the Procurement List and the agency is authorized to do so.
- Allocation Process
- When direct ordering is not possible, an allocation process is used to ensure fair distribution of orders among qualified nonprofit agencies.
- Compliance with Orders
- Agencies and contractors must comply with the terms and conditions of orders placed under this program.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must ensure compliance with the procedures for ordering from nonprofit agencies and maintain documentation of the process.
- Contractors: Must fulfill orders in accordance with the requirements and timelines specified.
- Agencies: Must monitor compliance and report any issues to the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to promote employment opportunities for people who are blind or severely disabled by prioritizing purchases from qualified nonprofit agencies.
- It impacts daily procurement by requiring contracting officers to check the Procurement List and follow specific ordering procedures.
- Common pitfalls include failing to follow the correct process or neglecting to document compliance, which can result in procurement delays or noncompliance findings.