Reserve Officer Training Corps and military recruiting on campus
Federal contracts cannot be awarded to higher education institutions that prohibit ROTC programs or military recruiting on campus, unless a statutory exception applies.
Overview
FAR 9.110 establishes requirements for federal contracts with institutions of higher education regarding Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs and military recruiting on campus. This section implements statutory mandates that restrict contract awards to institutions that prohibit ROTC or military recruiting, ensuring compliance with federal law. It defines key terms, outlines the authority for these requirements, sets forth the policy, details procedures for contracting officers, and prescribes a specific contract clause to be included in applicable solicitations and contracts.
Key Rules
- Definitions
- Clarifies terms such as "institution of higher education," "ROTC program," and "military recruiting."
- Authority
- Cites the statutory basis for restricting contract awards to non-compliant institutions.
- Policy
- Prohibits award of contracts to institutions that deny ROTC access or military recruiting on campus, except under specific exceptions.
- Procedures
- Outlines steps contracting officers must take to verify compliance and handle exceptions or waivers.
- Contract Clause
- Requires inclusion of a specific clause in solicitations and contracts with institutions of higher education.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must verify institutional compliance, include the required clause, and deny awards to non-compliant institutions unless an exception applies.
- Contractors (Institutions): Must allow ROTC programs and military recruiting on campus to be eligible for federal contracts.
- Agencies: Oversee compliance and may grant exceptions or waivers under certain conditions.
Practical Implications
- Ensures federal funds are not awarded to institutions that restrict military access.
- Impacts eligibility for contracts with colleges and universities.
- Non-compliance can result in ineligibility for federal contracts, making it critical for institutions to review and update campus policies.