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FAR Revisions – making it simple

FAR Reform: What Contractors Need to Know About the Latest Proposed Changes

The FAR Council continues to update the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) in response to the executive order “Restoring Common Sense to Federal Procurement.” These proposed changes aim to simplify and streamline federal buying. So far, updates target FAR Parts 1, 10, 11, 18, 34, 39, 43, and 52.

Although these changes are still in the review stage, many agencies have already started applying them. Here’s what federal contractors should know:

New Proposed FAR Revisions – In Plain Terms

Part 10: Market Research

  • Agencies now have more flexibility in how they conduct market research at any dollar level.
  • They must still research larger buys (above the simplified acquisition threshold).
  • They no longer have to research smaller buys if good pricing info is available.
  • The FAR removes suggested research steps.
  • New clause FAR 52.210-1 (Market Research) will appear in solicitations and contracts for noncommercial buys over $6 million.

Part 11: Describing Agency Needs

  • Agencies no longer need to prioritize green products listed in the Green Procurement Compilation.
  • Agencies can rely on commercial market acceptance to decide if an item fits their needs.
  • Removes measures controlling the identification and availability of specifications.
  • The FAR drops specific rules for specs and delivery schedules.
  • It keeps rules under DPAS for contracts tied to national defense and emergency programs.

Part 18: Emergency Acquisitions

  • Agencies no longer need to prioritize sustainable options during emergency buys.
  • Emergency flexibilities remain in place for disasters, security events, and contingency operations.

Part 39: Buying IT and Communications Tech

  • Contracting officers do not need to evaluate every stage of modular IT contracts for the best contract vehicle.
  • Agencies will no longer need IT vendors to list minimum education or experience for proposed staff.

Part 43: Contract Modifications

  • The FAR clarifies how agencies should document and define change orders.
  • Contracting officers won’t have to list every major event when reviewing requests for pricing adjustments.

What This Means for Contractors

These changes mark a shift toward faster, more practical procurement. Even though the FAR updates are not finalized, agencies are already putting many into action. Contractors should track these changes closely to stay ahead, and stay compliant, to stay competitive.

Questions regarding the latest proposed revisions to the FAR? Give us a call.