Overview
This section establishes the framework for policies and procedures used to authorize official deviations from the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). It distinguishes between general regulatory deviations and those specific to government forms.
Key Rules
- Authority: Defines the subpart as the primary source for the administrative process of authorizing departures from FAR requirements.
- Exclusion of Forms: Explicitly states that exceptions regarding the use of FAR-prescribed forms are managed under FAR Part 53 (Forms) rather than this subpart.
- Scope Limitation: Limits the applicability of Subpart 1.4 to regulatory text and procedures, excluding documentation templates.
Practical Implications
- Deviation Requests: Agencies must follow these specific procedures when a standard FAR clause or policy does not fit a particular procurement need or unique mission requirement.
- Regulatory Compliance: Contracting officers should recognize that any modification to a standardized form requires a different authorization path than a modification to a contract clause or regulatory procedure.