Overview
This section establishes the procedure for automatically adding replacement commodities to the AbilityOne Procurement List when an existing item is superseded. it ensures that the mandatory sourcing status carries over to the new product if a qualified nonprofit agency can meet the government's requirements.
Key Rules
- Automatic Inclusion: A replacement commodity is automatically added to the Procurement List if it has not been previously acquired and replaces an existing listed item.
- Qualification Requirements: To qualify for automatic inclusion, the AbilityOne participating nonprofit agency must be able to meet the Government’s quality standards, delivery schedules, and provide the item at a fair market price.
- Mandatory Acquisition: Once the replacement commodity is on the list, agencies are required to acquire it from the specific nonprofit agency designated by the Committee.
- Dual Listing: The original commodity remains on the Procurement List until the government no longer has any requirement for it, allowing for a transition period between old and new stock.
Practical Implications
- Contracting Officers must ensure they do not compete a requirement for a "new" item if it is technically a replacement for an existing AbilityOne commodity.
- This provision simplifies the administrative process for the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled by bypassing the full formal addition process for item upgrades or substitutions.