Overview
This section outlines the specific approval authorities required for publishing paid advertisements, distinguishing between the requirements for newspapers and other forms of media.
Key Rules
- Newspaper Authority: The authority to approve paid newspaper advertisements resides with the head of each agency, as mandated by 44 U.S.C. 3702.
- Delegation: Agency heads are permitted to delegate this approval authority to subordinates under 5 U.S.C. 302(b).
- Mandatory Documentation: Contracting officers must secure written authorization prior to placing any advertisement in a newspaper.
- Other Media: Advance written authorization is generally not required for advertisements in media other than newspapers (e.g., radio, television, or online platforms) unless the agency head establishes a specific requirement to the contrary.
Practical Implications
- Contracting officers must ensure a formal administrative approval process is completed and documented in the contract file before committing government funds to newspaper advertising.
- The regulation simplifies the procurement of digital and broadcast advertising by removing the default requirement for high-level written authorization that applies to traditional print newspapers.