8.712
Specification changes
Contracting activities must provide at least 90 days’ written notice to AbilityOne agencies and the Committee before making significant specification or scope changes, except in emergencies where immediate written justification is required.
Overview
FAR 8.712 outlines the requirements for contracting activities when making specification changes to supplies or services procured from AbilityOne participating nonprofit agencies. The regulation ensures that these agencies are properly notified of any changes that could affect their ability to fulfill government contracts, particularly those involving items on the Procurement List. It establishes notification timelines and procedures to allow for adequate preparation and feedback from the nonprofit agencies and the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled (AbilityOne Commission).
Key Rules
- Notification of Specification Changes
- Contracting activities must notify the participating nonprofit agency and the central nonprofit agency in writing of any changes in specifications or descriptions. Without such notification, the nonprofit agency will provide supplies or services as originally specified.
- Advance Notice for Procurement List Items
- A 90-day advance notification must be provided to the Committee and central nonprofit agency for actions affecting items on the Procurement List, including changes requiring new stock numbers, deletions, standardization, or new item development.
- Service Contract Changes
- For service contracts, at least 90 days’ notice must be given before any changes in scope or conditions.
- Emergency Exceptions
- If emergency needs prevent the 90-day notice, the contracting activity must immediately inform the nonprofit agencies in writing, explaining the reasons for the shortened timeline.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must provide timely, written notifications of changes and ensure compliance with the 90-day advance notice requirement or document emergency exceptions.
- Contractors (Nonprofit Agencies): Must deliver according to the last cited specification unless notified of changes; may comment on proposed changes.
- Agencies: Must allow for comments from the Committee and central nonprofit agency before implementing significant changes.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures AbilityOne agencies have sufficient time to adjust to changes, minimizing disruptions and maintaining compliance. Failure to provide proper notification can result in supply or service mismatches and noncompliance. Emergency procedures require clear documentation to justify deviations from standard timelines.