Overview
This section outlines specific procurement preferences and regulatory waivers triggered when the President declares an emergency or major disaster under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act.
Key Rules
- Local Preference: Agencies must give preference to local organizations, firms, and individuals when contracting for disaster or emergency assistance activities.
- Implementation Methods: This preference is exercised through the use of local area set-asides or specific evaluation preferences (as detailed in FAR 6.208 and Subpart 26.2).
- Shipping Flexibility: The requirements of the Cargo Preference Act of 1954, which typically mandate the use of U.S. flag vessels for ocean transportation, may be waived during emergency situations.
Practical Implications
- Contracting officers must prioritize "buying local" to support the economic recovery of the impacted disaster area, often restricting competition to businesses within a specific geographic zone.
- Logistics and supply chain management for international relief efforts can be expedited by bypassing standard U.S. flag vessel requirements if domestic shipping is unavailable or impractical during a crisis.