Overview
This section defines the scope of FAR Subpart 22.17, "Combating Trafficking in Persons," establishing that while basic anti-trafficking requirements apply to all federal acquisitions, specialized compliance measures are triggered by specific location and dollar thresholds.
Key Rules
- Universal Scope: The general requirements of this subpart apply to every federal acquisition, regardless of dollar value or location.
- Enhanced Compliance Triggers: The more stringent requirements for a formal certification and a written compliance plan (referenced in 22.1703(c)) apply only when:
- Location: Performance of services or acquisition of supplies occurs outside the United States.
- Value: The estimated value of that portion of the contract or subcontract exceeds $500,000 (note: the text provided specifies $700,000 based on the most recent inflationary adjustments).
- COTS Exception: Commercially available off-the-shelf (COTS) items are specifically exempt from the certification and compliance plan requirements, even if acquired outside the United States.
Practical Implications
- Administrative Burden: Contractors performing international work over the $700,000 threshold must budget for the administrative overhead of developing and maintaining a formal compliance plan.
- Subcontractor Oversight: Prime contractors must flow these requirements down to subcontractors, ensuring they determine which specific tiers meet the criteria for "outside the United States" performance and the associated monetary threshold.