Overview
This section authorizes contracting officers to limit competition specifically to eligible Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) to meet statutory goals established by the Veterans Benefits Act of 2003.
Key Rules
- Discretionary Authority: Contracting officers have the authority to set aside solicitations for SDVOSBs to fulfill requirements under 15 U.S.C. 657f.
- Eligibility Requirements: Only SDVOSB concerns verified and eligible under the formal SDVOSB Program may participate in these set-asides (referencing FAR 19.1405 for specific procedures).
- Administrative Streamlining: No separate "Justification" or "Determination and Findings" (D&F) is required to justify the decision to use an SDVOSB set-aside rather than full and open competition.
Practical Implications
- This section simplifies the acquisition process for agencies aiming to meet their annual SDVOSB participation goals by removing the administrative burden of documenting a formal justification for the set-aside.
- It provides a clear legal basis for contracting officers to bypass full and open competition in favor of a restricted socio-economic category.