Overview
FAR 26.601 establishes the regulatory basis for Subpart 26.6 by implementing Executive Order 13513, which aims to improve safety by reducing text messaging while driving during the performance of government business.
Key Rules
- Executive Order Implementation: Formally integrates the requirements of E.O. 13513 (October 1, 2009) into the Federal Acquisition Regulation.
- Policy Objective: Sets the federal mandate for "Federal Leadership on Reducing Text Messaging while Driving."
- Regulatory Scope: Serves as the introductory purpose for the subsequent requirements regarding contractor policies and contract clauses.
Practical Implications
- Policy Adoption: Federal contractors are required to adopt and enforce internal policies that prohibit employees from text messaging while driving company-owned, government-owned, or personally-owned vehicles when performing official contract work.
- Flow-down Requirements: This section provides the authority for the inclusion of FAR clause 52.223-18 in solicitations and contracts, requiring contractors to encourage safety compliance among their subcontractors.