FR 2021-00617

General Summary

The Department of Defense (DoD) has made a final rule to update the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), which outlines regulations for government procurement. Specifically, this rule makes an editorial change by updating a reference within the DFARS. The original reference to the DoD Industrial Security Regulation is being replaced with a new reference to the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM). The amendment aims to align the DFARS with existing regulations as codified on December 21, 2020, and takes effect on February 24, 2021.

Significant Issues or Concerns

Several points in the document raise notable concerns. First, the document does not explain the potential impact of this editorial change on the procurement processes. It also lacks details on whether this amendment could have any cost implications, which could be either savings or additional expenses for the government. Additionally, the document does not specify whether there was any consultation or inclusion of public comments before making this change. While the effective date is clear, there is no discussion about the process or timeline for implementation. Lastly, there is no mention of any anticipated outcomes or benefits from updating the reference.

Impact on the Public

For the general public, the immediate impact may seem minimal since this is a technical amendment. Nevertheless, it relates to government procurement processes that indirectly affect public interests, including national security and efficient utilization of taxpayer funds. Ensuring that acquisition regulations are correctly updated serves to maintain the integrity and security of government procurement initiatives, which could potentially carry long-term benefits for the public.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Specific stakeholders, such as government contractors, defense agencies, and regulatory bodies, may experience a more direct impact. For contractors, understanding the shift in regulatory references is essential for compliance with security protocols. This update helps ensure that industry partners are aware of the current legal standard they must follow, which could positively impact security compliance and efficiency.

On the flip side, there could be some negative aspects if stakeholders are unprepared for the change. Without sufficient information on the implementation process or potential cost implications, contractors and agency officials might face unforeseen challenges in adapting to the revised regulation. It is crucial for the DoD to communicate these changes effectively to mitigate any such concerns.

By addressing these editorial changes efficiently and comprehensively, the DoD can help ensure that all affected parties maintain alignment with the updated security protocols essential for national security and effective procurement management.