Overview
This section mandates that contracting officers utilize the Disaster Response Registry within the System for Award Management (SAM) when procuring services for disaster relief or emergency response within the United States.
Key Rules
- Mandatory Consultation: Contracting officers (COs) are required ("shall") to consult the registry before awarding contracts for specific disaster-related activities.
- Scope of Services: The requirement applies to contracts involving debris removal, distribution of supplies, reconstruction, and other emergency relief efforts.
- Geographic Limitation: This rule applies specifically to activities conducted inside the United States and its outlying areas.
- Search Location: The registry must be accessed via the Advanced Search functions on SAM.gov.
Practical Implications
- Contractor Visibility: To be considered for urgent disaster-relief contracts, businesses must not only be registered in SAM but must specifically opt-in to the Disaster Response Registry.
- Market Research Efficiency: This centralized database allows government agencies to quickly identify and vet capable contractors during time-sensitive emergency situations.