17-Attachment FF - FTA Requirements.pdf

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Attached to
RFP - Transit Planning Consultant for Harris County Housing and Community and Development (FTA)
Solicitation number
25/0125
Issued by
Harris County, Texas

About this file

This document is an Attachment FF detailing Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Requirements for Third Party Contract Clauses in Professional Services Purchase Procurements for Harris County. The attachment comprehensively outlines mandatory federal regulations and compliance requirements for contractors engaged in federally-assisted projects, covering areas such as civil rights, equal employment opportunity, disadvantaged business enterprise participation, invention rights, data rights, and specific operational standards.

The document emphasizes key compliance areas including non-discrimination policies, prompt payment to subcontractors, procurement of recovered materials, telecommunications equipment restrictions, and safety requirements. While no specific procurement details are provided, the attachment sets forth critical federal guidelines that contractors must follow when performing work funded by federal transportation assistance, with particular focus on ensuring ethical conduct, preventing fraud, protecting government interests, and maintaining equitable business practices across all tiers of subcontracts and agreements.

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ATTACHMENT FF – FTA REQUIREMENTS

REQUIRED THIRD PARTY CONTRACT CLAUSES

FOR

PROFESIONAL SERVICES PURCHASE

PROCUREMENTS

NO FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS TO THIRD PARTIES

The Purchaser and Contractor acknowledge and agree that, notwithstanding any concurrence by the Federal Government in or approval of the solicitation or award of the underlying contract, absent the express written consent by the Federal Government, the Federal Government is not a party to this contract and shall not be subject to any obligations or liabilities to the Purchaser, Contractor, or any other party (whether or not a party to that contract) pertaining to any matter resulting from the underlying contract.

The Contractor agrees to include the above clause in each subcontract financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance provided by FTA. It is further agreed that the clause shall not be modified, except to identify the subcontractor who will be subject to its provisions.

FALSE STATEMENTS OR CLAIMS OF CIVIL AND CRIMINAL FRAUD

The Contractor acknowledges that the provisions of the Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act of 1986, as amended, 31 U.S.C. § 3801 et seq. and U.S. DOT regulations, "Program Fraud Civil Remedies," 49 C.F.R. Part 31, apply to its actions pertaining to this Project.

Upon execution of the underlying contract, the Contractor certifies or affirms the truthfulness and accuracy of any statement it has made, it makes, it may make, or causes to be made, pertaining to the underlying contract or the FTA assisted project for which this contract work is being performed. In addition to other penalties that may be applicable, the Contractor further acknowledges that if it makes, or causes to be made, a false, fictitious, or fraudulent claim, statement, submission, or certification, the Federal Government reserves the right to impose the penalties of the Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act of 1986 on the Contractor to the extent the Federal Government deems appropriate.

The Contractor also acknowledges that if it makes, or causes to be made, a false, fictitious, or fraudulent claim, statement, submission, or certification to the Federal Government under a contract connected with a project that is financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance originally awarded by FTA under the authority of 49 U.S.C. § 5307, the Government reserves the right to impose the penalties of 18 U.S.C. § 1001 and 49 U.S.C.

§ 5307(n)(1) on the Contractor, to the extent the Federal Government deems appropriate.

The Contractor agrees to include the above two clauses in each subcontract financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance provided by FTA. It is further agreed that the clauses shall not be modified, except to identify the subcontractor who will be subject to the provisions.

ACCESS TO THIRD PARTY CONTRACT RECORDS

Contractor shall permit the authorized representatives of Harris County, the U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT), and the Comptroller General of the United States to inspect and audit all data and records of Transit Operations relating to its performance under this Contract. Contractor shall maintain complete and accurate records with respect to its performance under this Contract. All such records shall be maintained in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and shall be clearly identified and readily accessible at all reasonable times. Contractor further agrees that Harris County shall have, until the expiration of three (3) years after final payment of this Contract, access to and right to examine any directly pertinent books, documents, papers, and records concerning this project.

CHANGES TO FEDERAL REQUIREMENTS

Contractor shall at all times comply with all applicable FTA regulations, policies, procedures and directives, including without limitation those listed directly or by reference in the Master Agreement between Purchaser and FTA, as they may be amended or promulgated from time to time during the term of this contract. Contractor's failure to so comply shall constitute a material breach of this contract.

CIVIL RIGHTS

Nondiscrimination - In accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. § 2000d, section 303 of the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, 42 U.S.C. § 6102, section 202 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 U.S.C. § 12132, and Federal transit law at 49 U.S.C. § 5332, the Contractor agrees that it will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age, or disability. In addition, the Contractor agrees to comply with applicable Federal implementing regulations and other implementing requirements FTA may issue.

Equal Employment Opportunity - The following equal employment opportunity requirements apply to the underlying contract:

a) Race, Color, Creed, National Origin, Sex - In accordance with Title VII of the

Civil Rights Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. § 2000e, and Federal transit laws at 49 U.S.C. § 5332, the Contractor agrees to comply with all applicable equal employment opportunity requirements of U.S. Department of Labor (U.S. DOL) regulations, "Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, Equal Employment Opportunity, Department of Labor," 41 C.F.R. Parts 60 et seq ., (which implement Executive Order No. 11246, "Equal Employment Opportunity," as amended by Executive Order No. 11375, "Amending Executive Order 11246 Relating to Equal Employment Opportunity," 42 U.S.C. § 2000e note), and with any applicable Federal statutes, executive orders, regulations, and Federal policies that may in the future affect construction activities undertaken in the course of the Project. The Contractor agrees to take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and that employees are treated during employment, without regard to their race, color, creed, national origin, sex, or age. Such action shall include, but not be limited to, the following: employment, upgrading, demotion or transfer, recruitment or recruitment advertising, layoff or termination; rates of pay or other forms of compensation; and selection for training, including apprenticeship. In addition, the Contractor agrees to comply with any implementing requirements FTA may issue.

b) Age - In accordance with section 4 of the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, as amended, 29 U.S.C. § § 623 and Federal transit law at 49 U.S.C. § 5332, the Contractor agrees to refrain from discrimination against present and prospective employees for reason of age. In addition, the Contractor agrees to comply with any implementing requirements FTA may issue.

c) Disabilities - In accordance with section 102 of the Americans with Disabilities Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. § 12112, the Contractor agrees that it will comply with the requirements of U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, "Regulations to Implement the Equal Employment Provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act," 29 C.F.R. Part 1630, pertaining to employment of persons with disabilities. In addition, the Contractor agrees to comply with any implementing requirements FTA may issue.

The Contractor also agrees to include these requirements in each subcontract financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance provided by FTA, modified only if necessary to identify the affected parties.

INCORPORATION OF FEDERAL TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION (FTA)

TERMS

The preceding provisions include, in part, certain Standard Terms and Conditions required by DOT, whether or not expressly set forth in the preceding contract provisions. All contractual provisions required by DOT, as set forth in FTA Circular 4220.1E are hereby incorporated by reference. Anything to the contrary herein notwithstanding, all FTA mandated terms shall be deemed to control in the event of a conflict with other provisions contained in this Agreement. The Contractor shall not perform any act, fail to perform any act, or refuse to comply with any Harris County requests which would cause Harris County to be in violation of the FTA terms and conditions.

ENERGY CONSERVATION

The contractor agrees to comply with mandatory standards and policies relating to energy efficiency which are contained in the state energy conservation plan issued in compliance with the Energy Policy and Conservation Act.

TERMINATION

Termination for Convenience: Harris County may terminate this contract, in whole or in part, at any time by written notice to the Contractor when it is in the Government's best interest. The Contractor shall be paid its costs, including contract close-out costs, and profit on work performed up to the time of termination. The Contractor shall promptly submit its termination claim to Harris County to be paid the Contractor. If the Contractor has any property in its possession belonging to Harris County, the Contractor will account for the same, and dispose of it in the manner the Harris County directs.

Termination for Default [Breach or Cause]: If the Contractor does not deliver supplies in accordance with the contract delivery schedule, or, if the contract is for services, the Contractor fails to perform in the manner called for in the contract, or if the Contractor fails to comply with any other provisions of the contract, Harris County may terminate this contract for default. Termination shall be effected by serving a notice of termination on the contractor setting forth the manner in which the Contractor is in default. The Contractor will only be paid the contract price for supplies delivered and accepted, or services performed in accordance with the manner of performance set forth in the contract.

If it is later determined by Harris County that the Contractor had an excusable reason for not performing, such as a strike, fire, or flood, events which are not the fault of or are beyond the control of the Contractor, Harris County, after setting up a new delivery of performance schedule, may allow the Contractor to continue work, or treat the termination as a termination for convenience.

Opportunity to Cure: Harris County in its sole discretion may, in the case of a termination for breach or default, allow the Contractor [an appropriately short period of time] in which to cure the defect. In such case, the notice of termination will state the time period in which cure is permitted and other appropriate conditions.

If Contractor fails to remedy to Harris County's satisfaction the breach or default of any of the terms, covenants, or conditions of this contract within [ten (10) days] after receipt by Contractor of written notice from Harris County setting forth the nature of said breach or default, Harris County shall have the right to terminate the Contract without any further obligation to Contractor. Any such termination for default shall not in any way operate to preclude Harris County from also pursuing all available remedies against Contractor and its sureties for said breach or default.

Waiver of Remedies for any Breach: In the event that (Recipient) elects to waive its remedies for any breach by Contractor of any covenant, term or condition of this contract, such waiver by Harris County shall not limit Harris County's remedies for any succeeding breach of that or of any other term, covenant, or condition of this Contract.

DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION

This contract is a covered transaction for purposes of 49 CFR Part 29. As such, the contractor is required to verify that none of the contractor, its principals, as defined at 49 CFR 29.995, or affiliates, as defined at 49 CFR 29.905, are excluded or disqualified as defined at 49 CFR 29.940 and 29.945.

The contractor is required to comply with 49 CFR 29, Subpart C and must include the requirement to comply with 49 CFR 29, Subpart C in any lower tier covered transaction it enters into.

By signing and submitting its bid or proposal, the bidder or proposer certifies as follows:

The certification in this clause is a material representation of fact relied upon by Harris County. If it is later determined that the bidder or proposer knowingly rendered an erroneous certification, in addition to remedies available to Harris County, the Federal Government may pursue available remedies, including but not limited to suspension and/or debarment. The bidder or proposer agrees to comply with the requirements of 49 CFR 29, Subpart C while this offer is valid and throughout the period of any contract that may arise from this offer. The bidder or proposer further agrees to include a provision requiring such compliance in its lower tier covered transactions.

DISPUTES, BREACHES, OR OTHER LITIGATION

Disputes - Disputes arising in the performance of this Contract which are not resolved by agreement of the parties shall be decided in writing by the authorized representative of Harris County. This decision shall be final and conclusive unless within ten (10) days from the date of receipt of its copy, the Contractor mails or otherwise furnishes a written appeal to the authorized representative of Harris County. In connection with any such appeal, the Contractor shall be afforded an opportunity to be heard and to offer evidence in support of its position. The decision of the authorized representative of Harris County shall be binding upon the Contractor and the Contractor shall abide be the decision.

Performance During Dispute - Unless otherwise directed by Harris County, Contractor shall continue performance under this procurement while matters in dispute are being resolved.

Claims for Damages - Should either party to this procurement suffer injury or damage to person or property because of any act or omission of the party or of any of his employees, agents or others for whose acts he is legally liable, a claim for damages therefor shall be made in writing to such other party within a reasonable time after the first observance of such injury of damage.

Remedies - Unless this procurement provides otherwise, all claims, counterclaims, disputes and other matters in question between Harris County and the Contractor arising out of or relating to this agreement or its breach will be decided by arbitration if the parties mutually agree, or in a court of competent jurisdiction within the State of Texas in which Harris County is located.

Rights and Remedies - The duties and obligations imposed by the procurement documents and the rights and remedies available thereunder shall be in addition to and not a limitation of any duties, obligations, rights and remedies otherwise imposed or available by law. No action or failure to act by the Harris County or Contractor shall constitute a waiver of any right or duty afforded any of them under this procurement, nor shall any such action or failure to act constitute an approval of or acquiescence in any breach thereunder, except as may be specifically agreed in writing.

LOBBYING

Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment, 31 U.S.C. 1352, as amended by the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995, P.L. 104-65 [to be codified at 2 U.S.C. § 1601, et seq.] - Contractors who apply or bid for an award of $100,000 or more shall file the certification required by 49 CFR part 20, "New Restrictions on Lobbying.", (see Exhibit B). Each tier certifies to the tier above that it will not and has not used Federal appropriated funds to pay any person or organization for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a member of Congress, officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a member of Congress in connection with obtaining any Federal contract, grant or any other award covered by 31 U.S.C. 1352. Each tier shall also disclose the name of any registrant under the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995 who has made lobbying contacts on its behalf with non-Federal funds with respect to that Federal contract, grant or award covered by 31 U.S.C. 1352. Such disclosures are forwarded from tier to tier up to the recipient.

CLEAN AIR

The Contractor agrees to comply with all applicable standards, orders or regulations issued pursuant to the Clean Air Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. §§ 7401 et seq. The Contractor agrees to report each violation to Harris County and understands and agrees that Harris County will, in turn, report each violation as required to assure notification to FTA and the appropriate EPA Regional Office.

The Contractor also agrees to include these requirements in each subcontract exceeding $150,000 financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance provided by FTA.

CLEAN WATER

The Contractor agrees to comply with all applicable standards, orders or regulations issued pursuant to the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended, 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq .

The Contractor agrees to report each violation to Harris County and understands and agrees that Harris County will, in turn, report each violation as required to assure notification to FTA and the appropriate EPA Regional Office.

The Contractor also agrees to include these requirements in each subcontract exceeding $150,000 financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance provided by FTA.

SEISMEC SAFETY

(Architecture & Engineering for Buildings & Additions Only)

The Contractor agrees that any new building or addition to an existing building will be designed and constructed in accordance with the standards for Seismic Safety required in Department of Transportation Seismic Safety Regulations 49 CFR Part 41 and will certify to compliance to the extent required by the regulation. The Contractor also agrees to ensure that all work performed under this contract including work performed by a subcontractor is in compliance with the standards required by the Seismic Safety Regulations and the certification of compliance issued on the project.

RIGHTS IN DATA AND PATENT RIGHTS

(Research & Development Only)

RIGHTS IN DATA - The following requirements apply to each contract involving experimental, developmental or research work:

The term "subject data" used in this clause means recorded information, whether or not copyrighted, that is delivered or specified to be delivered under the contract. The term includes graphic or pictorial delineation in media such as drawings or photographs; text in specifications or related performance or design-type documents; machine forms such as punched cards, magnetic tape, or computer memory printouts; and information retained in computer memory. Examples include, but are not limited to: computer software, engineering drawings and associated lists, specifications, standards, process sheets, manuals, technical reports, catalog item identifications, and related information.

The term "subject data" does not include financial reports, cost analyses, and similar information incidental to contract administration.

The following restrictions apply to all subject data first produced in the performance of the contract to which this Attachment has been added:

a. Except for its own internal use, the Contractor may not publish or reproduce subject data in whole or in part, or in any manner or form, nor may the Purchaser or Contractor authorize others to do so, without the written consent of the Federal Government, until such time as the Federal Government may have either released or approved the release of such data to the public; this restriction on publication, however, does not apply to any contract with an academic institution.

b. In accordance with 49 C.F.R. § 18.34 and 49 C.F.R. § 19.36, the Federal Government reserves a royalty-free, non-exclusive and irrevocable license to reproduce, publish, or otherwise use, and to authorize others to use, for "Federal Government purposes," any subject data or copyright described in subsections (2)(b)1 and (2)(b)2 of this clause below. As used in the previous sentence, "for Federal Government purposes," means use only for the direct purposes of the Federal Government. Without the copyright owner's consent, the Federal Government may not extend its Federal license to any other party.

1. Any subject data developed under that contract, whether or not a copyright has been obtained; and

2. Any rights of copyright purchased by the Purchaser or Contractor using Federal assistance in whole or in part provided by FTA.

c. When FTA awards Federal assistance for experimental, developmental, or research work, it is FTA's general intention to increase transportation knowledge available to the public, rather than to restrict the benefits resulting from the work to participants in that work. Therefore, unless FTA determines otherwise, the Purchaser and the Contractor performing experimental, developmental, or research work required by the underlying contract to which this Attachment is added agrees to permit FTA to make available to the public, either FTA's license in the copyright to any subject data developed in the course of that contract, or a copy of the subject data first produced under the contract for which a copyright has not been obtained. If the experimental, developmental, or research work, which is the subject of the underlying contract, is not completed for any reason whatsoever, all data developed under that contract shall become subject data as defined in subsection (a) of this clause and shall be delivered as the Federal Government may direct. This subsection (c) , however, does not apply to adaptations of automatic data processing equipment or programs for the Purchaser or Contractor's use whose costs are financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance provided by FTA for transportation capital projects.

d. Unless prohibited by state law, upon request by the Federal Government, the Purchaser and the Contractor agree to indemnify, save, and hold harmless the Federal Government, its officers, agents, and employees acting within the scope of their official duties against any liability, including costs and expenses, resulting from any willful or intentional violation by the Purchaser or Contractor of proprietary rights, copyrights, or right of privacy, arising out of the publication, translation, reproduction, delivery, use, or disposition of any data furnished under that contract. Neither the Purchaser nor the Contractor shall be required to indemnify the Federal Government for any such liability arising out of the wrongful act of any employee, official, or agents of the Federal Government.

e. Nothing contained in this clause on rights in data shall imply a license to the Federal Government under any patent or be construed as affecting the scope of any license or other right otherwise granted to the Federal Government under any patent.

f. Data developed by the Purchaser or Contractor and financed entirely without using Federal assistance provided by the Federal Government that has been incorporated into work required by the underlying contract to which this Attachment has been added is exempt from the requirements of subsections (b), (c), and (d) of this clause, provided that the Purchaser or Contractor identifies that data in writing at the time of delivery of the contract work.

g. Unless FTA determines otherwise, the Contractor agrees to include these requirements in each subcontract for experimental, developmental, or research work financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance provided by FTA.

Unless the Federal Government later makes a contrary determination in writing, irrespective of the Contractor's status (i.e. , a large business, small business, state government or state instrumentality, local government, nonprofit organization, institution of higher education, individual, etc.), the Purchaser and the Contractor agree to take the necessary actions to provide, through FTA, those rights in that invention due the Federal Government as described in:

U.S. Department of Commerce regulations, "Rights to Inventions Made by Nonprofit Organizations and Small Business Firms Under Government Grants, Contracts and Cooperative Agreements," 37 C.F.R. Part 401.

The Contractor also agrees to include these requirements in each subcontract for experimental, developmental, or research work financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance provided by FTA.

PATENT RIGHTS - The following requirements apply to each contract involving experimental, developmental, or research work:

1. General - If any invention, improvement, or discovery is conceived or first actually reduced to practice in the course of or under the contract to which this Attachment has been added, and that invention, improvement, or discovery is patentable under the laws of the United States of America or any foreign country, the Purchaser and Contractor agree to take actions necessary to provide immediate notice and a detailed report to the party at a higher tier until FTA is ultimately notified.

2. Unless the Federal Government later makes a contrary determination in writing, irrespective of the Contractor's status (a large business, small business, state government or state instrumentality, local government, nonprofit organization, institution of higher education, individual), the Purchaser and the Contractor agree to take the necessary actions to provide, through FTA, those rights in that invention due the Federal Government as described in U.S. Department of Commerce regulations, "Rights to Inventions Made by Nonprofit Organizations and Small Business Firms Under Government Grants, Contracts and Cooperative Agreements," 37 C.F.R. Part 401.

3. The Contractor also agrees to include the requirements of this clause in each subcontract for experimental, developmental, or research work financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance provided by FTA.

FLY AMERICA

The Contractor agrees to comply with 49 U.S.C. §40118 41 CFR Part 301-10.131 - 301-

10.143 Applicability to Contracts: The Fly America requirements apply to the transportation of persons or property, by air, between a place in the U.S. and a place outside the U.S., or between places outside the U.S., when the FTA will participate in the costs of such air transportation. Transportation on a foreign air carrier is permissible when provided by a foreign air carrier under a code share agreement when the ticket identifies the U.S. air carrier's designator code and flight number. Transportation by a foreign air carrier is also permissible if there is a bilateral or multilateral air transportation agreement to which the U.S. Government and a foreign government are parties and which the Federal DOT has determined meets the requirements of the Fly America Act.

Flow down Requirements: The Fly America requirements flow down from NCTD to first tier consultants, who are responsible for ensuring that lower tier consultants and sub-consultants are in compliance.

Fly America - The Contractor agrees to comply with 49 U.S.C. 40118 (the "Fly America" Act) in accordance with the General Services Administration's regulations at 41 CFR Part 301-10.131 - 301-10.143, which provide that recipients and sub-recipients of Federal funds and their contractors are required to use U.S. Flag air carriers for U.S Government-financed international air travel and transportation of their personal effects or property, to the extent such service is available, unless travel by foreign air carrier is a matter of necessity, as defined by the Fly America Act. The Contractor shall submit, if a foreign air carrier was used, an appropriate certification or memorandum adequately explaining why service by a U.S. flag air carrier was not available or why it was necessary to use a foreign air carrier and shall, in any event, provide a certificate of compliance with the Fly America requirements. The Contractor agrees to include the requirements of this section in all subcontracts that may involve international air transportation.

CONTRACT WORK HOURS AND SAFETY STANDARDS ACT

Overtime requirements - No contractor or subcontractor contracting for any part of the contract work which may require or involve the employment of laborers or mechanics shall require or permit any such laborer or mechanic in any workweek in which he or she is employed on such work to work in excess of forty hours in such workweek unless such laborer or mechanic receives compensation at a rate not less than one and one-half times the basic rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of forty hours in such workweek.

Violation; liability for unpaid wages; liquidated damages - In the event of any violation of the clause set forth in paragraph (1) of this section the contractor and any subcontractor responsible therefor shall be liable for the unpaid wages. In addition, such contractor and subcontractor shall be liable to the United States for liquidated damages. Such liquidated damages shall be computed with respect to each individual laborer or mechanic, including watchmen and guards, employed in violation of the clause set forth in paragraph (1) of this section, in the sum of $10 for each calendar day on which such individual was required or permitted to work in excess of the standard workweek of forty hours without payment of the overtime wages required by the clause set forth in paragraph (1) of this section.

Withholding for unpaid wages and liquidated damages - The (write in the name of the grantee) shall upon its own action or upon written request of an authorized representative of the Department of Labor withhold or cause to be withheld, from any moneys payable on account of work performed by the contractor or subcontractor under any such contract or any other Federal contract with the same prime contractor, or any other federally-assisted contract subject to the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act, which is held by the same prime contractor, such sums as may be determined to be necessary to satisfy any liabilities of such contractor or subcontractor for unpaid wages and liquidated damages as provided in the clause set forth in paragraph (2) of this section.

Subcontracts - The contractor or subcontractor shall insert in any subcontracts the clauses set forth in paragraphs (1) through (4) of this section and also a clause requiring the subcontractors to include these clauses in any lower tier subcontracts. The prime contractor shall be responsible for compliance by any subcontractor or lower tier subcontractor with the clauses set forth in paragraphs (1) through (4) of this section.

NON-CONSTRUCTION EMPLOYEE PROTECTION- CONTRACT WORK

HOURS AND SAFETY STANDARDS ACT

(Applies to any non-construction contract exceeding $100,000)

The Contractor shall comply with all federal laws, regulations, and requirements providing wage and hour protections for non-construction employees, in accordance with 40 U.S.C. § 3702, Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act, and other relevant parts of that Act, 40 U.S.C. § 3701 et seq., and U.S. DOL regulations, “Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering Federally Financed and Assisted Construction (also Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Non-construction Contracts Subject to the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act),” 29 C.F.R. part 5.

Any records maintained under this section shall be made available by the Contractor for inspection, copying, or transcription by authorized representatives of the FTA and the Department of Labor, and the Contractor will permit such representatives to interview employees during working hours on the job. The contractor shall require the inclusion of the language of this clause within subcontracts of all tiers.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY CLAUSE

(Executive Order 11246)

During the performance of this contract, the contractor agrees as follows:

The contractor will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

The contractor will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and that employees are treated during employment, without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. Such action shall include, but not be limited to the following: employment, upgrading, demotion, or transfer; recruitment or recruitment advertising; layoff or termination; rates of pay or other forms of compensation;

and selection for training, including apprenticeship. The contractor agrees to post in conspicuous places, available to employees and applicants for employment, notices to be provided by the contracting officer setting forth the provisions of this nondiscrimination clause.

The contractor will, in all solicitations or advancements for employees placed by or on behalf of the contractor, state that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because such employee or applicant has inquired about, discussed, or disclosed the compensation of the employee or applicant or another employee or applicant. This provision shall not apply to instances in which an employee who has access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of such employee’s essential job functions discloses the compensation of such other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to such information, unless such disclosure is in response to a formal complaint or charge, in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or is consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information.

The contractor will send to each labor union or representative of workers with which he has a collective bargaining agreement or other contract or understanding, a notice, to be provided by the agency contracting officer, advising the labor union or workers' representative of the contractor's commitments under Section 202 of Executive Order No.

11246 of September 24, 1965, and shall post copies of the notice in conspicuous places available to employees and applicants for employment.

The contractor will comply with all provisions of Executive Order No. 11246 of Sept. 24, 1965, and of the rules, regulations, and relevant orders of the Secretary of Labor.

The contractor will furnish all information and reports required by Executive Order No.

11246 of September 24, 1965, and by the rules, regulations, and orders of the Secretary of Labor, or pursuant thereto, and will permit access to his books, records, and accounts by the contracting agency and the Secretary of Labor for purposes of investigation to ascertain compliance with such rules, regulations, and orders.

1. In the event of the contractor's noncompliance with the nondiscrimination clauses of this contract or with any of such rules, regulations, or orders, this contract may be cancelled, terminated, or suspended in whole or in part and the contractor may be declared ineligible for further Government contracts in accordance with procedures authorized in Executive Order No. 11246 of Sept. 24, 1965, and such other sanctions may be imposed and remedies invoked as provided in Executive Order No. 11246 of September 24, 1965, or by rule, regulation, or order of the Secretary of Labor, or as otherwise provided by law.

2. The contractor will include the provisions of paragraphs (1) through (8) in every subcontract or purchase order unless exempted by rules, regulations, or orders of the Secretary of Labor issued pursuant to Section 204 of Executive Order No.

11246 of September 24, 1965, so that such provisions will be binding upon each subcontractor or vendor. The contractor will take such action with respect to any subcontract or purchase order as may be directed by the Secretary of Labor as a means of enforcing such provisions including sanctions for noncompliance:

Provided, however, that in the event the contractor becomes involved in, or is threatened with, litigation with a subcontractor or vendor as a result of such direction, the contractor may request the United States to enter into such litigation to protect the interests of the United States." [Sec. 202 amended by EO 11375 of Oct. 13, 1967, 32 FR 14303, 3 CFR, 1966-1970 Comp., p. 684, EO 12086 of Oct.

5, 1978, 43 FR 46501, 3 CFR, 1978 Comp., p. 230, EO 13665 of April 8, 2014, 79 FR 20749, EO 13672 of July 21, 2014, 79 FR 42971]

RIGHTS IN DATA AND PATENT RIGHTS

(Research & Development Only)

RIGHTS IN DATA - The following requirements apply to each contract involving experimental, developmental or research work:

The term "subject data" used in this clause means recorded information, whether or not copyrighted, that is delivered or specified to be delivered under the contract. The term includes graphic or pictorial delineation in media such as drawings or photographs; text in specifications or related performance or design-type documents; machine forms such as punched cards, magnetic tape, or computer memory printouts; and information retained in computer memory. Examples include, but are not limited to: computer software, engineering drawings and associated lists, specifications, standards, process sheets, manuals, technical reports, catalog item identifications, and related information.

The term "subject data" does not include financial reports, cost analyses, and similar information incidental to contract administration.

The following restrictions apply to all subject data first produced in the performance of the contract to which this Attachment has been added:

h. Except for its own internal use, the Contractor may not publish or reproduce subject data in whole or in part, or in any manner or form, nor may the Purchaser or Contractor authorize others to do so, without the written consent of the Federal Government, until such time as the Federal Government may have either released or approved the release of such data to the public; this restriction on publication, however, does not apply to any contract with an academic institution.

i. In accordance with 49 C.F.R. § 18.34 and 49 C.F.R. § 19.36, the Federal Government reserves a royalty-free, non-exclusive and irrevocable license to reproduce, publish, or otherwise use, and to authorize others to use, for "Federal Government purposes," any subject data or copyright described in subsections (2)(b)1 and (2)(b)2 of this clause below. As used in the previous sentence, "for Federal Government purposes," means use only for the direct purposes of the Federal Government. Without the copyright owner's consent, the Federal Government may not extend its Federal license to any other party.

1. Any subject data developed under that contract, whether or not a copyright has been obtained; and

2. Any rights of copyright purchased by the Purchaser or Contractor using Federal assistance in whole or in part provided by FTA.

j. When FTA awards Federal assistance for experimental, developmental, or research work, it is FTA's general intention to increase transportation knowledge available to the public, rather than to restrict the benefits resulting from the work to participants in that work. Therefore, unless FTA determines otherwise, the Purchaser and the Contractor performing experimental, developmental, or research work required by the underlying contract to which this Attachment is added agrees to permit FTA to make available to the public, either FTA's license in the copyright to any subject data developed in the course of that contract, or a copy of the subject data first produced under the contract for which a copyright has not been obtained. If the experimental, developmental, or research work, which is the subject of the underlying contract, is not completed for any reason whatsoever, all data developed under that contract shall become subject data as defined in subsection (a) of this clause and shall be delivered as the Federal Government may direct. This subsection (c) , however, does not apply to adaptations of automatic data processing equipment or programs for the Purchaser or Contractor's use whose costs are financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance provided by FTA for transportation capital projects.

k. Unless prohibited by state law, upon request by the Federal Government, the Purchaser and the Contractor agree to indemnify, save, and hold harmless the Federal Government, its officers, agents, and employees acting within the scope of their official duties against any liability, including costs and expenses, resulting from any willful or intentional violation by the Purchaser or Contractor of proprietary rights, copyrights, or right of privacy, arising out of the publication, translation, reproduction, delivery, use, or disposition of any data furnished under that contract. Neither the Purchaser nor the Contractor shall be required to indemnify the Federal Government for any such liability arising out of the wrongful act of any employee, official, or agents of the Federal Government.

l. Nothing contained in this clause on rights in data shall imply a license to the Federal Government under any patent or be construed as affecting the scope of any license or other right otherwise granted to the Federal Government under any patent.

m. Data developed by the Purchaser or Contractor and financed entirely without using Federal assistance provided by the Federal Government that has been incorporated into work required by the underlying contract to which this Attachment has been added is exempt from the requirements of subsections (b), (c), and (d) of this clause, provided that the Purchaser or Contractor identifies that data in writing at the time of delivery of the contract work.

n. Unless FTA determines otherwise, the Contractor agrees to include these requirements in each subcontract for experimental, developmental, or research work financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance provided by FTA.

Unless the Federal Government later makes a contrary determination in writing, irrespective of the Contractor's status (i.e. , a large business, small business, state government or state instrumentality, local government, nonprofit organization, institution of higher education, individual, etc.), the Purchaser and the Contractor agree to take the necessary actions to provide, through FTA, those rights in that invention due the Federal Government as described in:

U.S. Department of Commerce regulations, "Rights to Inventions Made by Nonprofit Organizations and Small Business Firms Under Government Grants, Contracts and Cooperative Agreements," 37 C.F.R. Part 401.

The Contractor also agrees to include these requirements in each subcontract for experimental, developmental, or research work financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance provided by FTA.

PATENT RIGHTS - The following requirements apply to each contract involving experimental, developmental, or research work:

4. General - If any invention, improvement, or discovery is conceived or first actually reduced to practice in the course of or under the contract to which this Attachment has been added, and that invention, improvement, or discovery is patentable under the laws of the United States of America or any foreign country, the Purchaser and Contractor agree to take actions necessary to provide immediate notice and a detailed report to the party at a higher tier until FTA is ultimately notified.

5. Unless the Federal Government later makes a contrary determination in writing, irrespective of the Contractor's status (a large business, small business, state government or state instrumentality, local government, nonprofit organization, institution of higher education, individual), the Purchaser and the Contractor agree to take the necessary actions to provide, through FTA, those rights in that invention due the Federal Government as described in U.S. Department of Commerce regulations, "Rights to Inventions Made by Nonprofit Organizations and Small Business Firms Under Government Grants, Contracts and Cooperative Agreements," 37 C.F.R. Part 401.

6. The Contractor also agrees to include the requirements of this clause in each subcontract for experimental, developmental, or research work financed in whole or in part with Federal assistance provided by FTA.

DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES (DBEs)

Goal

This contract is subject to the requirements of Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 26, Participation by Disadvantaged Business Enterprises in Department of Transportation Financial Assistance Programs. While Harris County’s overall goal for DBE participation is 13%, a separate contract goal has not been established for this contract.

Nondiscrimination The Contractor or subcontractor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or sex in the performance of this contract. The Contractor shall carry out applicable requirements of 49 CFR Part 26 in the award and administration of DOT assisted contracts. Failure by the contractor to carry out these requirements is a material breach of this contract, which may result in the termination of this contract or such other remedy as Harris County deems appropriate, which may include, but is not limited to:

(1) Withholding monthly progress payments;

(2) Assessing sanctions;

(3) Liquated damages; and/or

(4) Disqualifying the Contractor from future bidding as non-responsible.

Each subcontract the Contractor signs with a subcontractor must include the assurance in this paragraph (see 49 CFR 26.13(b)).

Prompt Payment

Subcontractor and Supplier Payments: In accordance with Texas Government Code, Title 10 Chapter 2251 Sec. 2251.022, the Contractor shall provide payment to each Subcontractor and Supplier within ten (10) calendar days after receiving payment from Harris County CSD for amounts previously invoiced for work performed or materials furnished under the Contract. Subcontract payment provisions shall require payments to subcontractors within ten (10) calendar days after the prime Contractor received payment from Harris County CSD. Interest on late payments is subject to the provisions of Texas Government Code, Title 10, Chapter 2251, Vernon's Texas Codes Annotated regarding payments to subcontractors. Under Sec. 2251.023, subcontractors are also required to make payments to their subcontractors no later than the 10th day after the date the subcontractor receives payment from Contractor. Failure to pay subcontractors within 10 days and/or failure to submit appropriate certification of subcontractor payment will be considered in the review of the Contractor's performance of the contract and may result in the withholding of payment to the Contractor.

Retainage: Harris County CSD does not normally require retainage on contracts other than contracts involving construction or installation of equipment or other components. If retainage is required, the Contractor agrees further to return retainage payments to each subcontractor within 10 days after the subcontractor's work is satisfactorily completed.

Harris County CSD has also established the following additional mechanisms to ensure prompt payment and will include it in all contractual agreements.

Billing Disputes: If a payment dispute arises between the Contractor and any Subcontractor or Supplier related to this Contract, the Contractor shall provide a written response to the Subcontractor or Supplier, with a copy to the Project Manager, specifically addressing any disputed amounts. The Contractor should resolve all disputed invoices at the earliest time to avoid a delay in the submission of required subcontractor/supplier payment certifications that could delay payment to the Contractor. In the event that the Contractor cannot resolve a subcontractor or supplier disputed invoice, the Contractor shall bring the matter to the attention of the Contracting Officer at the time of submitting the Contractor's invoice for payment. The Project Manager will investigate the situation and make a determination whether the Contractor's invoice should be processed for payment without the required subcontractor or supplier certification. The Project Manager will not mediate the dispute between the Contractor and any subcontractor or supplier in the resolution of disputed invoices. At no time will the Contractor invoice Harris County CSD for amounts in dispute without prior notification to the Project Manager.

Subcontractors: The Contractor shall not, without the written consent of Harris County CSD, terminate a subcontractor, or replace a subcontractor previously listed or permit such subcontract to be assigned or transferred, or allow that portion of the work to be performed by anyone other than the listed subcontractor, except the Contractor may perform a previously subcontracted portion of the work itself with qualified personnel upon written approval from Harris County CSD. After award, the Contractor shall not enter into a subcontract for work to be performed without prior notification to Harris County CSD. At no time will the Contractor invoice Harris County CSD for amounts pertaining to subcontractors terminated or substituted without prior approval.

PROCUREMENT OF RECOVERED MATERIALS

The Contractor agrees to comply with all the requirements of Section 6002 of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), as amended (42 U.S.C. 6962), including but not limited to the regulatory provisions of 40 CFR Part 247, and Executive Order 12873, as they apply to the procurement of the items designated in Subpart B of 40 CFR Part 247.

Harris County shall comply with Section 6002 of the Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, by procuring only items designated in guidelines of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at 40 C.F.R.

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