8.705-1
General
Ordering offices must prioritize AbilityOne nonprofit agencies for Procurement List items, using DLA, GSA, or VA only when specified, and follow fallback procedures if those facilities cannot supply the items.
Overview
FAR 8.705-1 outlines the general procedures for ordering supplies and services listed on the Procurement List under the AbilityOne Program. It establishes the requirement for ordering offices to obtain these items from designated central nonprofit agencies or their participating nonprofit agencies, unless the items are specifically identified as available through DLA, GSA, or VA supply distribution facilities. If these facilities cannot fulfill the order, the ordering office must then procure from the designated AbilityOne nonprofit agency. Additionally, DLA and GSA supply distribution facilities themselves are required to source Procurement List items from the central nonprofit agency or its designated AbilityOne nonprofit agencies.
Key Rules
- Mandatory Source Requirement
- Ordering offices must obtain Procurement List items from central nonprofit agencies or designated AbilityOne nonprofits, unless otherwise specified.
- Exceptions for Federal Supply Facilities
- If the Procurement List specifies DLA, GSA, or VA as the source, ordering must follow those agencies' procedures.
- Fallback Procedure
- If a supply distribution facility cannot provide the item, it must notify the ordering office, which then orders from the designated AbilityOne nonprofit agency.
- Supply Facility Sourcing
- DLA and GSA supply facilities must obtain Procurement List items from the central nonprofit agency or designated AbilityOne nonprofits.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure compliance with mandatory source requirements and follow proper ordering channels.
- Contractors: Not directly applicable, but must understand sourcing requirements if acting as an ordering office.
- Agencies: DLA, GSA, and VA must follow specified procedures and communicate availability issues promptly.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures that AbilityOne nonprofit agencies are the primary source for Procurement List items, supporting employment for people who are blind or have significant disabilities.
- Failure to follow these procedures can result in noncompliance with federal procurement regulations.
- Common pitfalls include ordering from commercial sources when AbilityOne sources are required or not following fallback procedures when supply facilities are unable to fulfill orders.