Student Guide Part I (Unit 4) Flashcards
DISCLAIMER: This deck was created using Brainscape's AI Software by feeding it small chunks of the student guide handed out at the beginning of class. It is NOT from any quiz, test or other source. If you find an error while studying contact the creator to fix it. (101 cards)
What is the FAR?
The FAR is a regulation codified in Title 48, Chapter 1 of the Code of Federal Regulations that governs a Federal Government process called ‘acquisition.’
What is the process of ‘acquisition’ as defined by the FAR?
‘Acquisition’ is the process of buying goods and services for the Federal Government’s use.
Which agencies are subject to the FAR?
Many executive branch agencies, particularly the Department of Defense, are subject to the FAR.
What does the FAR cover?
The FAR covers the regulations and requirements necessary for the acquisition of goods and services by the Federal Government.
What is the role of competent acquisition professionals in relation to the FAR?
While compliance with the FAR ensures that an agency’s actions are legal, it does not guarantee a good business deal, which requires the skill and judgment of competent acquisition professionals.
What does the FAR generally require agencies to obtain when soliciting offers and awarding contracts?
The FAR generally requires agencies to obtain ‘full and open competition’ when soliciting offers and awarding contracts.
What is the primary purpose of the FAR in the Federal Acquisition Regulations System?
The FAR serves as the primary document for the codification and publication of uniform policies and procedures for acquisition by all executive agencies.
How do agencies obtain their rulemaking authority under the FAR?
Agencies obtain their rulemaking authority from laws/statutes enacted by Congress or authority delegated by the President.
Is the FAR an instructional guide for purchasing goods and services?
No, the FAR is not an instructional guide for purchasing goods and services; it is used to determine what courses of action are permissible.
What agencies are subject to the FAR?
The FAR applies to most executive agencies, although some executive agencies and their organizational components are exempt from the FAR.
What types of acquisitions does the FAR apply to?
The FAR applies to acquisitions of supplies and services with appropriated funds by most executive branch agencies.
Does the FAR apply to legislative and judicial branch agencies?
No, the FAR does not apply to legislative branch agencies or judicial branch agencies, although they may adopt the FAR as a matter of policy.
Which agencies are generally subject to the FAR when making purchases?
Executive branch agencies are generally subject to the FAR when making certain purchases.
What does the term ‘acquisition’ mean according to FAR 2.101?
Acquisition means the acquiring by contract with appropriated funds of supplies or services by and for the use of the Federal Government, including the entire process from establishing agency needs to contract performance and administration.
According to FAR 2.101, what is included in the definition of ‘supplies’?
Supplies include all property except land or interest in land, such as public works, buildings, ships, aircraft, machine tools, and the alteration or installation of these items.
How does the FAR define a service contract?
A service contract is defined as a contract that directly engages the time and effort of a contractor whose primary purpose is to perform an identifiable task rather than to furnish an end item of supply.
What are some examples of service contracts according to FAR?
Examples include maintenance, overhaul, repair, servicing, rehabilitation, salvage, modernization, or modification of supplies, systems, or equipment.
What are appropriated funds?
Appropriated funds are funds paid out of the United States Treasury that are charged to an appropriation provided by or derived from an act of Congress, allowing for the incurrence of obligations and payments for specified purposes.
What types of services are included under FAR 37.101?
Routine recurring maintenance of real property, housekeeping and base services, advisory and assistance services, operation of Government-owned equipment, communications services, architect-engineering, transportation and related services, and research and development.
What is the authority of contracting officers as defined in FAR 1.602-1?
Contracting officers have the authority to enter into, administer, or terminate contracts and make related determinations and findings, but they can only bind the Government to the extent of the authority delegated to them.
What must contracting officers ensure before entering into a contract according to FAR 1.602-1?
Contracting officers must ensure that all requirements of law, executive orders, regulations, and all other applicable procedures, including clearances and approvals, have been met.
What are the consequences for contracting officers acting outside the scope of their authority?
Contracting officers acting outside the scope of their authority can be held personally liable for their actions.
Why is it important for contracting officers to comply with the FAR?
It is important for contracting officers to comply with the FAR because their actions must be authorized; otherwise, they risk being unauthorized and potentially liable for their actions.
How many subchapters are there in the FAR?
There are eight subchapters in the FAR identified using the letters A - H.