36C25725Q0466.pdf

PAGE 1 OF 1. REQUISITION NO.

2. CONTRACT NO. 3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE DATE 4. ORDER NO. 5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

a. NAME b. TELEPHONE NO. (No Collect Calls) 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL

TIME

9. ISSUED BY CODE 10. THIS ACQUISITION IS UNRESTRICTED OR SET ASIDE: % FOR:

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

8(A)

NAICS:

SIZE STANDARD:

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

RFQ IFB RFP

15. DELIVER TO CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BY CODE

17a. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR CODE FACILITY CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

TELEPHONE NO. UEI: EFT:

PHONE: FAX:

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24.

ITEM NO. SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA 26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED.

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN _______________ 29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. ___________________________________ OFFER COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DATED ________________________________. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY (BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED SET FORTH HEREIN IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (TYPE OR PRINT) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (TYPE OR PRINT) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION (REV. NOV 2021)

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

STANDARD FORM 1449

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

756-25-3-960-0146

36C25725Q0466

6. SOLICITATION ISSUE DATE

4-02-2025

Ognian D. Ivanov (210) 620-1571 04-11-2025

10:00 CDT

36C257 Department Of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 17

5441 Babcock Road Ste. 302 San Antonio TX 78240

X 100

X

334517

1200 Employees

N/A

X

Department of Veterans Affairs El Paso VA Health Care System (EPVAHCS) Biomedical Department 5001 N Piedras St El Paso TX 78229-4401

This is accomplished through the Tungsten Network located at:

http://www.fsc.va.gov/einvoice.asp This is mandatory and the sole method for submitting invoices.

(877) 353-9791 (512) 460-5540

See CONTINUATION Page

This solicitation is for the purchase of Radiation Testing Equipment.

Please see Statement of Work.

See CONTINUATION Page x X

X 1

Jose Campa Contracting Officer

36C25725Q0466

Table of Contents

SECTION A

A.1 SF 1449 SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS

AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

B.2 EL PASO VETERANS AFFAIRS HEALTH CARE SYSTEM

RADIATION MONITORING EQUIPMENT

STATEMENT OF WORK (SOW)

B.3 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

B.4 DELIVERY SCHEDULE

SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

C.2 52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT

STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE ORDERS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES (JAN 2025)

C.3 VAAR 852.203-70 COMMERCIAL ADVERTISING (MAY 2018)

C.4 VAAR 852.204-71 INFORMATION AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS SECURITY

(FEB 2023)

C.5 VAAR 852.232-72 ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION OF PAYMENT REQUESTS (NOV

2018)

C.6 VAAR 852.242-71 ADMINISTRATIVE CONTRACTING OFFICER (OCT 2020)

C.7 VAAR 852.247-73 PACKING FOR DOMESTIC SHIPMENT (OCT 2018)

C.8 VAAR 852.246-71 REJECTED GOODS (OCT 2018)

SECTION D - CONTRACT DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, OR ATTACHMENTS

SECTION E - SOLICITATION PROVISIONS

E.1 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB

1998)

E.2 52.204-24 REPRESENTATION REGARDING CERTAIN TELECOMMUNICATIONS

AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SERVICES OR EQUIPMENT (NOV 2021)

E.3 52.204-29 FEDERAL ACQUISITION SUPPLY CHAIN SECURITY ACT ORDERS—

REPRESENTATION AND DISCLOSURES (DEC 2023)

E.4 ADDENDUM to FAR 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMMERCIAL

PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

E.5 52.212-2 EVALUATION—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL

SERVICES (NOV 2021)

E.6 52.212-3 OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS—

COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (MAY 2024)

E.7 VAAR 852.239-75 INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

ACCESSIBILITY NOTICE (FEB 2023)

E.8 VAAR 852.273-70 LATE OFFERS (NOV 2021)

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

1. Contract Administration: All contract administration matters will be handled by the following individuals:

a. CONTRACTOR:

b. GOVERNMENT: Contracting Officer 36C671 Jose Campa

Department Of Veterans Affairs

Network Contracting Office 17

5441 Babcock Road Ste. 302

San Antonio TX 78240

2. CONTRACTOR REMITTANCE ADDRESS: All payments by the Government to the contractor will be made in accordance with:

[X] 52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—System for Award Management, or

[] 52.232-36, Payment by Third Party

3. INVOICES: Invoices shall be submitted in arrears:

a. Quarterly []

b. Semi-Annually []

c. Other [X] Upon Delivery

4. GOVERNMENT INVOICE ADDRESS: All Invoices from the contractor shall be submitted electronically in accordance with VAAR Clause 852.232-72 Electronic Submission of Payment Requests.

http://www.fsc.va.gov/einvoice.asp

This is mandatory and the sole method for submitting invoices.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS: The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the Solicitation numbered and dated as follows:

AMENDMENT NO DATE

B.2 EL PASO VETERANS AFFAIRS HEALTH CARE SYSTEM

RADIATION MONITORING EQUIPMENT

STATEMENT OF WORK (SOW)

The Department of Veterans Affairs, El Paso VA Health Care System (EPVAHCS), has a requirement for Biomedical Radiation testing equipment to support health care operations. This equipment shall provide El Paso Veteran Affairs Biomedical Technicians the opportunity to test and repair Radiology equipment on site thus reducing downtime to patient care.

Specifications/Salient Charateristics

The El Paso VA Health Care System (EPVAHCS), Biomedical Department, requires the purchase of one (1) Radiation Testing System.

• Dose Measurement Capability: Accurately measures radiation dose across a range from approximately 0.1 µGy to 100 mGy, with a dose rate range of 0.1 µGy/s to 100 mGy/s, ensuring precise assessment of patient exposure during diagnostic procedures.

• kVp Accuracy: Measures peak kilovoltage (kVp) with an accuracy of ±2% or better across a range of 40 kV to 150 kV, critical for verifying Xray generator performance.

• Exposure Time Precision: Captures exposure time with an accuracy of ±1% or ±1 ms (whichever is greater) for durations from 1 ms to 100 s, allowing reliable validation of Xray equipment timing.

• Portability: Compact and lightweight design, typically weighing less than 1 kg, with dimensions not exceeding 20 cm x 10 cm x 5 cm, facilitating easy transport and use in various clinical settings.

• Compatibility: Supports measurements for multiple Xray modalities (e.g., radiography, fluoroscopy, dental) without requiring additional hardware, ensuring versatility across VA facilities.

• Automatic Detection: Features auto ranging and self-calibration to detect radiation pulses and adjust measurement settings dynamically, reducing operator setup time and error.

• Display and Interface: Equipped with a clear, backlit digital display (e.g., LCD or OLED, minimum 2.5inch diagonal) showing simultaneous readings of dose, kVp, and time, with intuitive controls for immediate use.

• Battery Life: Operates on a rechargeable or replaceable battery (e.g., lithiumion or AA) with a minimum lifespan of 10 hours continuous use, supporting extended testing sessions without recharge.

• Durability: Built to withstand clinical environments, with a rugged housing resistant to drops from at least 1 meter and an operating temperature range of 15°C to 35°C.

• Waveform Analysis: Provides basic waveform type identification (e.g., single-phase, three phase, or pulsed) to assist in troubleshooting Xray equipment performance.

1.0 Description Of Services

The Contractor shall provide technical support services to connect to current and future upgrades of equipment and telephone support for all applications. Equipment Support shall be provided during the warranty period.

1.1 Software Applications

The Contractor shall provide and update all software applications, as they become available, through usual commercial channels. The Contractor shall make recommendations for application upgrades. “Software” means the application software and license to the Customer by the original software developer. “Customer” means the site of the firm, group, company, or corporation.

1.2 Software Support Services

The Contractor must provide unlimited telephone and email support to Customer inquiries regarding the use and operation of the software. This does not include training in the use of the software, customer modifications, product development, or modification of existing source codes belonging to the Government.

Software fixes, patches, and free software updates must be made available through the duration of the contract.

1.3 Troubleshooting and Repair

Any problems with the system must be isolated and repaired by the Contractor.

The Contractor shall trouble shoot the hardware, software, and communications equipment to determine the best method of repair. If problems are found, the Contractor shall contact the appropriate and authorized maintenance organization or company and track the trouble call until it is resolved.

1.4 Contractor Responsibilities

During the term of this contract, the Contractor shall provide support at the Customers request and shall use its best efforts to provide prompt software support services to the Customer by telephone. The Contractor shall provide telephone support to Customers between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm Central time, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays recognized by the VA.

The Contractor shall use its best efforts to respond promptly to all inquiries by the customer within one (1) hour of notification that service is required.

2.0 GENERAL INFORMATION

2.1 Hours of Operation

Normal hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm CST, excluding holidays. All services shall be performed during normal hours of coverage unless requested and approved by the COR. Due to the nature of the project, the Contractor understands that a portion of the work shall be performed in occupied areas.

Therefore, work shall be performed in strict accordance with the Conformance Standards and OSHA regulations. Contractor shall perform work in a professional manner and shall minimize the disruption of normal operations of the facility including the occupied patient and staff areas.

Federal and National Holidays observed by the VAMC are:

National Holidays Federal Holidays

New Year's Day

Labor Day

Memorial Day Thanksgiving Day

M L King's Birthday

Columbus Day

President's Day

Veterans Day

Christmas Day

Independence Day

Also included would be any other day specifically declared by the President of the United States to be a National Holiday.

When a holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday shall be observed as a legal holiday by U.S. Government agencies. When a holiday falls on a Saturday, the preceding Friday shall be observed as a legal holiday.

3.0 SECURITY REQUIREMENTS

The Contractor’s employees must wear visible identification and company uniforms, approved by the COR, at all times while on the premises of the VAMC.

It is the responsibility of the Contractor to park in the appropriate designated parking areas. Information on parking is available from the VA Police Section or the COR. The VAMC shall not invalidate or make reimbursement for any parking violations of the Contractor under any conditions. Smoking is prohibited inside any buildings at the VAMC. Possession of weapons is prohibited. Enclosed containers, including tool kits, must be subject to a search. Violations of VA regulations may result in citations answerable in the United States (Federal) District court, not a local district, state, or municipal court.

5.0 INFORMATION SYSTEMS OFFICER, INFORMATION PROTECTION:

The contractor shall not have access to VA Desktop computers, nor shall they have access to online resources belonging to the government while conducting services. If removal of equipment from the VA is required, any memory storage devices, such as hard drives, solid state drives and non-volatile memory units shall remain in VA control and shall not be removed from VA custody.

6.0 Privacy Officer:

The contractor shall not have access to Patient Health Information (PHI), nor shall they have the capability of accessing patient information during the services provided to the VA.

7.0 NARA Records Management Language for Contracts

1. Contractor shall comply with all applicable records management laws and regulations, as well as National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) records policies, including but not limited to the Federal Records Act (44 U.S.C. chs. 21, 29, 31, 33), NARA regulations at 36 CFR Chapter XII Subchapter B, and those policies associated with the safeguarding of records covered by the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a). These policies include the preservation of all records, regardless of form or characteristics, mode of transmission, or state of completion.

2. In accordance with 36 CFR 1222.32, all data created for Government use and delivered to, or falling under the legal control of, the Government are Federal records subject to the provisions of 44 U.S.C. chapters 21, 29, 31, and 33, the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), as amended, and the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a), as amended and must be managed and scheduled for disposition only as permitted by statute or regulation.

3. In accordance with 36 CFR 1222.32, Contractor shall maintain all records created for Government use or created in the course of performing the contract and/or delivered to, or under the legal control of the Government and must be managed in accordance with Federal law. Electronic records and associated metadata must be accompanied by sufficient technical documentation to permit understanding and use of the records and data.

4. El Paso Veteran Affairs Health Care System (EPVAHCS) and its contractors are responsible for preventing the alienation or unauthorized destruction of records, including all forms of mutilation. Records may not be removed from the legal custody of EPVAHCS or destroyed except for in accordance with the provisions of the agency records schedules and with the written concurrence of the Head of the Contracting Activity. Willful and unlawful destruction, damage or alienation of Federal records is subject to the fines and penalties imposed by 18 U.S.C. 2701.

In the event of any unlawful or accidental removal, defacing, alteration, or destruction of records, Contractor must report to EPVAHCS. The agency must report promptly to NARA in accordance with 36 CFR 1230.

5. The Contractor shall immediately notify the appropriate Contracting Officer upon discovery of any inadvertent or unauthorized disclosures of information, data, documentary materials, records or equipment. Disclosure of non-public information is limited to authorized personnel with a need-to-know as described in the [contract vehicle]. The Contractor shall ensure that the appropriate personnel, administrative, technical, and physical safeguards are established to ensure the security and confidentiality of this information, data, documentary material, records and/or equipment is properly protected. The Contractor shall not remove material from Government facilities or systems, or facilities or systems operated or maintained on the Government’s behalf, without the express written permission of the Head of the Contracting Activity. When information, data, documentary material, records and/or equipment is no longer required, it shall be returned to EPVAHCS control, or the Contractor must hold it until otherwise directed. Items returned to the Government shall be hand carried, mailed, emailed, or securely electronically transmitted to the Contracting Officer or address prescribed in the [contract vehicle]. Destruction of records is EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED unless in accordance with Paragraph (4).

6. The Contractor is required to obtain the Contracting Officer's approval prior to engaging in any contractual relationship (sub-contractor) in support of this contract requiring the disclosure of information, documentary material and/or records generated under, or relating to, contracts. The Contractor (and any sub-contractor) is required to abide by Government and EPVAHCS guidance for protecting sensitive, proprietary information, classified, and controlled unclassified information.

7. The Contractor shall only use Government IT equipment for purposes specifically tied to or authorized by the contract and in accordance with EPVAHCS policy.

8. The Contractor shall not create or maintain any records containing any non-public EPVAHCS information that are not specifically tied to or authorized by the contract.

9. The Contractor shall not retain, use, sell, or disseminate copies of any deliverable that contains information covered by the Privacy Act of 1974 or that which is generally protected from public disclosure by an exemption to the Freedom of Information Act.

10. The EPVAHCS owns the rights to all data and records produced as part of this contract. All deliverables under the contract are the property of the U.S. Government for which EPVAHCS shall have unlimited rights to use, dispose of, or disclose such data contained therein as it determines to be in the public interest. Any Contractor rights in the data or deliverables must be identified as required by FAR 52.227-11 through FAR 52.227-20.

11. Training. All Contractor employees assigned to this contract who create, work with, or otherwise handle records are required to take VHA-provided records management training, Talent Management System (TMS) Item #10176, Privacy and Information Security, Rules of Behavior. The Contractor is responsible for confirming training has been completed according to agency policies, including initial training and any annual or refresher training.

B.3 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

ITEM

NUMBER

DESCRIPTION OF

SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

1.00 EA __________________ __________________

BIOMED RADIATION TESTING EQUIPMENT

PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 334517 - Irradiation Apparatus Manufacturing PRODUCT/SERVICE CODE: 6525 - Imaging Equipment and Supplies: Medical, Dental, Veterinary

MANUFACTURER PART NUMBER (MPN): TBD

GRAND TOTAL __________________

B.4 DELIVERY SCHEDULE

ITEM

NUMBER SHIPPING INFORMATION QUANTITY

DELIVERY

DATE

0001 SHIP TO: Department of Veterans Affairs

EPVAHCS

5001 N. Piedras El Paso, TX 79930 4210

USA

1.00

FOB: DESTINATION

SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

This contract incorporates one or more clauses by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. Also, the full text of a clause may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es):

https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far https://www.va.gov/oal/library/vaar/

(End of Clause)

FAR

Number

Title Date

52.204-13 SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT MAINTENANCE OCT 2018

52.204-18 COMMERCIAL AND GOVERNMENT ENTITY CODE

MAINTENANCE

AUG 2020

52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS—COMMERCIAL

PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

NOV 2023

C.2 52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO

IMPLEMENT STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE ORDERS—COMMERCIAL

PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (JAN 2025)

(a) The Contractor shall comply with the following Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clauses, which are incorporated in this contract by reference, to implement provisions of law or Executive orders applicable to acquisitions of commercial products and commercial services:

(1) 52.203-19, Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (JAN 2017) (section 743 of Division E, Title VII, of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (Pub. L. 113-235) and its successor provisions in subsequent appropriations acts (and as extended in continuing resolutions)).

(2) 52.204–23, Prohibition on Contracting for Hardware, Software, and Services Developed or Provided by Kaspersky Lab Covered Entities (DEC 2023) (Section 1634 of Pub. L. 115–91).

(3) 52.204–25, Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. (NOV 2021) (Section 889(a)(1)(A) of Pub. L. 115–232).

(4) 52.209-10, Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations (NOV 2015).

(5) 52.232–40, Providing Accelerated Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (MAR 2023) (31 U.S.C. 3903 and 10 U.S.C. 3801).

(6) 52.233-3, Protest After Award (AUG 1996) (31 U.S.C. 3553).

(7) 52.233-4, Applicable Law for Breach of Contract Claim (OCT 2004) (Public Laws 108-77 and 108-78 (19 U.S.C. 3805 note)).

(b) The Contractor shall comply with the FAR clauses in this paragraph (b) that the Contracting Officer has indicated as being incorporated in this contract by reference to implement provisions of law or Executive orders applicable to acquisitions of commercial products and commercial services:

[] (1) 52.203–6, Restrictions on Subcontractor Sales to the Government (JUN 2020), with Alternate I (NOV 2021) (41 U.S.C. 4704 and 10 U.S.C. 4655).

[] (2) 52.203–13, Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (NOV 2021) (41 U.S.C.

3509).

[] (3) 52.203–15, Whistleblower Protections under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (JUN 2010) (Section 1553 of Pub. L. 111-5). (Applies to contracts funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.)

[] (4) 52.203–17, Contractor Employee Whistleblower Rights (NOV 2023) (41 U.S.C. 4712);

this clause does not apply to contracts of DoD, NASA, the Coast Guard, or applicable elements of the intelligence community—see FAR 3.900(a).

[] (5) 52.204–10, Reporting Executive Compensation and First-Tier Subcontract Awards (JUN 2020) (Pub. L. 109–282) (31 U.S.C. 6101 note).

[] (6) [Reserved]

[] (7) 52.204–14, Service Contract Reporting Requirements (OCT 2016) (Pub. L. 111–117, section 743 of Div. C).

[] (8) 52.204–15, Service Contract Reporting Requirements for Indefinite-Delivery Contracts (OCT 2016) (Pub. L. 111–117, section 743 of Div. C).

[X] (9) 52.204–27, Prohibition on a ByteDance Covered Application (JUN 2023) (Section 102 of Division R of Pub. L. 117–328).

[] (10) 52.204–28, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders—Federal Supply Schedules, Governmentwide Acquisition Contracts, and Multi-Agency Contracts. (DEC 2023) (Pub. L. 115–390, title II).

[X] (11)(i) 52.204–30, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders— Prohibition.

(DEC 2023) (Pub. L. 115–390, title II).

[] (ii) Alternate I (DEC 2023) of 52.204–30.

[] (12) 52.209–6, Protecting the Government’s Interest When Subcontracting with Contractors Debarred, Suspended, Proposed for Debarment, or Voluntarily Excluded. (JAN 2025) (31 U.S.C. 6101 note).

[] (13) 52.209-9, Updates of Publicly Available Information Regarding Responsibility Matters

(OCT 2018) (41 U.S.C. 2313).

[] (14) [Reserved]

[] (15) 52.219–3, Notice of HUBZone Set-Aside or Sole-Source Award (OCT 2022) (15 U.S.C.

657a).

[] (16) 52.219–4, Notice of Price Evaluation Preference for HUBZone Small Business Concerns (OCT 2022) (if the offeror elects to waive the preference, it shall so indicate in its offer) (15 U.S.C. 657a).

[] (17) [Reserved]

[X] (18)(i) 52.219-6, Notice of Total Small Business Set-Aside (NOV 2020) (15 U.S.C. 644).

[] (ii) Alternate I (MAR 2020) of 52.219-6.

[] (19)(i) 52.219-7, Notice of Partial Small Business Set-Aside (NOV 2020) (15 U.S.C. 644).

[] (ii) Alternate I (MAR 2020) of 52.219-7.

[] (20) 52.219-8, Utilization of Small Business Concerns (JAN 2025) (15 U.S.C. 637(d)(2) and (3)).

[] (21)(i) 52.219–9, Small Business Subcontracting Plan (JAN 2025) (15 U.S.C. 637(d)(4)).

[] (ii) Alternate I (NOV 2016) of 52.219-9.

[] (iii) Alternate II (NOV 2016) of 52.219-9.

[] (iv) Alternate III (JAN 2025) of 52.219–9.

[] (v) Alternate IV (JAN 2025) of 52.219–9.

[] (22)(i) 52.219-13, Notice of Set-Aside of Orders (MAR 2020) (15 U.S.C. 644(r)).

[] (ii) Alternate I (MAR 2020) of 52.219-13.

[X] (23) 52.219–14, Limitations on Subcontracting (OCT 2022) (15 U.S.C. 657s).

[] (24) 52.219-16, Liquidated Damages—Subcontracting Plan (SEP 2021) (15 U.S.C.

637(d)(4)(F)(i)).

[] (25) 52.219–27, Notice of Set-Aside for, or Sole-Source Award to, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Concerns Eligible Under the SDVOSB Program (FEB 2024) (15 U.S.C. 657f).

[] (26) (i) 52.219-28, Post award Small Business Program Rerepresentation (JAN 2025) (15 U.S.C. 632(a)(2)).

[] (ii) Alternate I (MAR 2020) of 52.219–28.

[] (27) 52.219–29, Notice of Set-Aside for, or Sole-Source Award to, Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business Concerns (OCT 2022) (15 U.S.C. 637(m)).

[] (28) 52.219–30, Notice of Set-Aside for, or Sole-Source Award to, Women-Owned Small Business Concerns Eligible Under the Women-Owned Small Business Program (OCT 2022) (15 U.S.C. 637(m)).

[] (29) 52.219-32, Orders Issued Directly Under Small Business Reserves (MAR 2020) (15 U.S.C. 644(r)).

[] (30) 52.219–33, Nonmanufacturer Rule (SEP 2021) (15 U.S.C. 637(a)(17)).

[] (31) 52.222-3, Convict Labor (JUN 2003) (E.O. 11755).

[X] (32) 52.222–19, Child Labor—Cooperation with Authorities and Remedies (JAN 2025) (E.O. 13126).

[X] (33) 52.222-21, Prohibition of Segregated Facilities (APR 2015).

[X] (34)(i) 52.222–26, Equal Opportunity (SEP 2016) (E.O. 11246).

[] (ii) Alternate I (FEB 1999) of 52.222-26.

[] (35)(i) 52.222–35, Equal Opportunity for Veterans (JUN 2020) (38 U.S.C. 4212).

[] (ii) Alternate I (JUL 2014) of 52.222-35.

[X] (36)(i) 52.222–36, Equal Opportunity for Workers with Disabilities (JUN 2020) (29 U.S.C.

793).

[] (ii) Alternate I (JUL 2014) of 52.222-36.

[] (37) 52.222–37, Employment Reports on Veterans (JUN 2020) (38 U.S.C. 4212).

[] (38) 52.222-40, Notification of Employee Rights Under the National Labor Relations Act

(DEC 2010) (E.O. 13496).

[X] (39)(i) 52.222-50, Combating Trafficking in Persons (NOV 2021) (22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O. 13627).

[] (ii) Alternate I (MAR 2015) of 52.222-50 (22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O. 13627).

[] (40) 52.222-54, Employment Eligibility Verification (JAN 2025). (E.O. 12989). (Not applicable to the acquisition of commercially available off-the-shelf items or certain other types of commercial products or commercial services as prescribed in FAR 22.1803.)

[] (41)(i) 52.223-9, Estimate of Percentage of Recovered Material Content for EPA- Designated Items (MAY 2008) (42 U.S.C.6962(c)(3)(A)(ii)). (Not applicable to the acquisition of commercially available off-the-shelf items.)

[] (ii) Alternate I (MAY 2008) of 52.223-9 (42 U.S.C. 6962(i)(2)(C)). (Not applicable to the acquisition of commercially available off-the-shelf items.)

[] (42) 52.223-11, Ozone-Depleting Substances and High Global Warming Potential Hydrofluorocarbons (MAY 2024) (42 U.S.C. 7671, et seq.).

[] (43) 52.223-12, Maintenance, Service, Repair, or Disposal of Refrigeration Equipment and Air Conditioners (MAY 2024) (42 U.S.C. 7671, et seq.).

[] (44) 52.223-20, Aerosols. (MAY 2024) (42 U.S.C. 7671, et seq.).

[] (45) 52.223-21, Foams (MAY 2024). (42 U.S.C. 7671, et seq.).

[X] (46) 52.223-23, Sustainable Products and Services (MAY 2024) (E.O. 14057, 7 U.S.C.

8102, 42 U.S.C. 6962, 42 U.S.C. 8259b, and 42 U.S.C. 7671I).

[] (47)(i) 52.224-3, Privacy Training (JAN 2017) (5 U.S.C. 552a).

[] (ii) Alternate I (JAN 2017) of 52.224-3.

[X] (48)(i) 52.225-1, Buy American—Supplies (OCT 2022) (41 U.S.C. chapter 83).

[] (ii) Alternate I (OCT 2022) of 52.225-1.

[] (49)(i) 52.225-3, Buy American—Free Trade Agreements—Israeli Trade Act (NOV 2023) (19 U.S.C. 3301 note, 19 U.S.C. 2112 note, 19 U.S.C. 3805 note, 19 U.S.C. 4001 note, 19 U.S.C. chapter 29 (sections 4501-4732), Public Law 103-182, 108-77, 108-78, 108-286, 108- 302, 109-53, 109-169, 109-283, 110-138, 112-41, 112-42, and 112-43.

[] (ii) Alternate I [Reserved].

[] (iii) Alternate II (JAN 2025) of 52.225-3.

[] (iv) Alternate III (FEB 2024) of 52.225-3.

[] (v) Alternate IV (OCT 2022) of 52.225-3.

[] (50) 52.225–5, Trade Agreements (NOV 2023) (19 U.S.C. 2501, et seq., 19 U.S.C. 3301 note

[X] (51) 52.225-13, Restrictions on Certain Foreign Purchases (FEB 2021) (E.O.'s, proclamations, and statutes administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Department of the Treasury).

[] (52) 52.225–26, Contractors Performing Private Security Functions Outside the United States (OCT 2016) (Section 862, as amended, of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008; 10 U.S.C. Subtitle A, Part V, Subpart G Note).

[] (53) 52.226-4, Notice of Disaster or Emergency Area Set-Aside (NOV 2007) (42 U.S.C.

5150).

[] (54) 52.226-5, Restrictions on Subcontracting Outside Disaster or Emergency Area (NOV 2007) (42 U.S.C. 5150).

[X] (55) 52.226-8, Encouraging Contractor Policies to Ban Text Messaging While Driving

(MAY 2024) (E.O. 13513)

[X] (56) 52.229–12, Tax on Certain Foreign Procurements (FEB 2021).

[] (57) 52.232-29, Terms for Financing of Purchases of Commercial Products and Commercial Services (NOV 2021) (41 U.S.C. 4505, 10 U.S.C. 3805).

[] (58) 52.232-30, Installment Payments for Commercial Products and Commercial Services

(NOV 2021) (41 U.S.C. 4505, 10 U.S.C. 3805).

[X] (59) 52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—System for Award Management

(OCT 2018) (31 U.S.C. 3332).

[] (60) 52.232-34, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—Other than System for Award Management (JUL 2013) (31 U.S.C. 3332).

[] (61) 52.232-36, Payment by Third Party (MAY 2014) (31 U.S.C. 3332).

[] (62) 52.239-1, Privacy or Security Safeguards (AUG 1996) (5 U.S.C. 552a).

[] (63) 52.240–1, Prohibition on Unmanned Aircraft Systems Manufactured or Assembled by American Security Drone Act—Covered Foreign Entities (NOV 2024) (Sections 1821–1826, Pub. L. 118–31, 41 U.S.C. 3901 note prec.).

[] (64) 52.242-5, Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (JAN 2017) (15 U.S.C.

637(d)(13)).

[] (65)(i) 52.247-64, Preference for Privately Owned U.S.-Flag Commercial Vessels (NOV 2021) (46 U.S.C. 55305 and 10 U.S.C. 2631).

[] (ii) Alternate I (APR 2003) of 52.247-64.

[] (iii) Alternate II (NOV 2021) of 52.247-64.

(c) The Contractor shall comply with the FAR clauses in this paragraph (c), applicable to commercial services, that the Contracting Officer has indicated as being incorporated in this contract by reference to implement provisions of law or Executive orders applicable to acquisitions of commercial products and commercial services:

[] (1) 52.222-41, Service Contract Labor Standards (AUG 2018) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[] (2) 52.222-42, Statement of Equivalent Rates for Federal Hires (MAY 2014) (29 U.S.C. 206 and 41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[] (3) 52.222-43, Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Labor Standards—Price Adjustment (Multiple Year and Option Contracts) (AUG 2018) (29 U.S.C. 206 and 41 U.S.C.

chapter 67).

[] (4) 52.222-44, Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Labor Standards—Price Adjustment (MAY 2014) (29 U.S.C 206 and 41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[] (5) 52.222-51, Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Maintenance, Calibration, or Repair of Certain Equipment—Requirements (MAY 2014) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[] (6) 52.222-53, Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Certain Services—Requirements (MAY 2014) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[] (7) 52.222-55, Minimum Wages for Contractor Workers Under Executive Order 14026 (JAN 2022).

[] (8) 52.222-62, Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (JAN 2022) (E.O. 13706).

[] (9) 52.226-6, Promoting Excess Food Donation to Nonprofit Organizations (JUN 2020) (42 U.S.C. 1792).

[] (10) 52.247-69, Reporting Requirement for U.S.-Flag Air Carriers Regarding Training to Prevent Human Trafficking (JAN 2025) (49 U.S.C. 40118(g)).

(d) Comptroller General Examination of Record. The Contractor shall comply with the provisions of this paragraph (d) if this contract was awarded using other than sealed bid, is in excess of the simplified acquisition threshold, as defined in FAR 2.101, on the date of award of this contract, and does not contain the clause at 52.215-2, Audit and Records—Negotiation.

(1) The Comptroller General of the United States, or an authorized representative of the Comptroller General, shall have access to and right to examine any of the Contractor's directly pertinent records involving transactions related to this contract.

(2) The Contractor shall make available at its offices at all reasonable times the records, materials, and other evidence for examination, audit, or reproduction, until 3 years after final payment under this contract or for any shorter period specified in FAR Subpart 4.7, Contractor Records Retention, of the other clauses of this contract. If this contract is completely or partially terminated, the records relating to the work terminated shall be made available for 3 years after any resulting final termination settlement. Records relating to appeals under the disputes clause or to litigation or the settlement of claims arising under or relating to this contract shall be made available until such appeals, litigation, or claims are finally resolved.

(3) As used in this clause, records include books, documents, accounting procedures and practices, and other data, regardless of type and regardless of form. This does not require the Contractor to create or maintain any record that the Contractor does not maintain in the ordinary course of business or pursuant to a provision of law.

(e)(1) Notwithstanding the requirements of the clauses in paragraphs (a), (b), (c), and (d) of this clause, the Contractor is not required to flow down any FAR clause, other than those in this paragraph (e)(1) in a subcontract for commercial products or commercial services. Unless otherwise indicated below, the extent of the flow down shall be as required by the clause—

(i) 52.203–13, Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (NOV 2021) (41 U.S.C.

3509).

(ii) 52.203–17, Contractor Employee Whistleblower Rights (NOV 2023) (41 U.S.C. 4712).

(iii) 52.203-19, Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (JAN 2017) (section 743 of Division E, Title VII, of the Consolidated and Further

Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (Pub. L. 113-235) and its successor provisions in subsequent appropriations acts (and as extended in continuing resolutions)).

(iv) 52.204–23, Prohibition on Contracting for Hardware, Software, and Services Developed or Provided by Kaspersky Lab Covered Entities (DEC 2023) (Section 1634 of Pub. L. 115–91).

(v) 52.204–25, Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. (NOV 2021) (Section 889(a)(1)(A) of Pub. L. 115–232).

(vi) 52.204–27, Prohibition on a ByteDance Covered Application (JUN 2023) (Section 102 of Division R of Pub. L. 117–328).

(vii) (A) 52.204–30, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders— Prohibition.

(DEC 2023) (Pub. L. 115–390, title II).

(B) Alternate I (DEC 2023) of 52.204–30.

(viii) 52.219–8, Utilization of Small Business Concerns (JAN 2025) (15 U.S.C. 637(d)(2) and (3)), in all subcontracts that offer further subcontracting opportunities. If the subcontract (except subcontracts to small business concerns) exceeds the applicable threshold specified in FAR 19.702(a) on the date of subcontract award, the subcontractor must include 52.219–8 in lower tier subcontracts that offer subcontracting opportunities.

(ix) 52.222-21, Prohibition of Segregated Facilities (APR 2015).

(x) 52.222–26, Equal Opportunity (SEP 2016) (E.O. 11246).

(xi) 52.222–35, Equal Opportunity for Veterans (JUN 2020) (38 U.S.C. 4212).

(xii) 52.222–36, Equal Opportunity for Workers with Disabilities (JUN 2020) (29 U.S.C. 793).

(xiii) 52.222–37, Employment Reports on Veterans (JUN 2020) (38 U.S.C. 4212).

(xiv) 52.222-40, Notification of Employee Rights Under the National Labor Relations Act (DEC 2010) (E.O. 13496). Flow down required in accordance with paragraph (f) of FAR clause 52.222-40.

(xv) 52.222-41, Service Contract Labor Standards (AUG 2018) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

(xvi)(A) 52.222-50, Combating Trafficking in Persons (NOV 2021) (22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O. 13627).

(B) Alternate I (MAR 2015) of 52.222-50 (22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O. 13627).

(xvii) 52.222-51, Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Maintenance, Calibration, or Repair of Certain Equipment—Requirements (MAY 2014) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

(xviii) 52.222-53, Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Certain Services—Requirements (MAY 2014) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

(xix) 52.222-54, Employment Eligibility Verification (JAN 2025) (E.O. 12989).

(xx) 52.222-55, Minimum Wages for Contractor Workers Under Executive Order 14026 (JAN 2022).

(xxi) 52.222-62 Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (JAN 2022) (E.O. 13706).

(xxii)(A) 52.224-3, Privacy Training (JAN 2017) (5 U.S.C. 552a).

(B) Alternate I (JAN 2017) of 52.224-3.

(xxiii) 52.225–26, Contractors Performing Private Security Functions Outside the United States (OCT 2016) (Section 862, as amended, of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008; 10 U.S.C. Subtitle A, Part V, Subpart G Note).

(xxiv) 52.226–6, Promoting Excess Food Donation to Nonprofit Organizations (JUN 2020) (42 U.S.C. 1792). Flow down required in accordance with paragraph (e) of FAR clause 52.226- 6.

(xxv) 52.232–40, Providing Accelerated Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (MAR 2023) (31 U.S.C. 3903 and 10 U.S.C. 3801). Flow down required in accordance with paragraph

(c) of 52.232–40.

(xxvi) 52.240–1, Prohibition on Unmanned Aircraft Systems Manufactured or Assembled by American Security Drone Act—Covered Foreign Entities (NOV 2024) (Sections 1821–1826, Pub. L. 118–31, 41 U.S.C.3901 note prec.).

(xxvii) 52.247-64, Preference for Privately Owned U.S.-Flag Commercial Vessels (NOV 2021) (46 U.S.C. 55305 and 10 U.S.C. 2631). Flow down required in accordance with paragraph (d) of FAR clause 52.247-64.

(2) While not required, the Contractor may include in its subcontracts for commercial products and commercial services a minimal number of additional clauses necessary to satisfy its contractual obligations.

(End of Clause)

C.3 VAAR 852.203-70 COMMERCIAL ADVERTISING (MAY 2018)

The Contractor shall not make reference in its commercial advertising to Department of Veterans Affairs contracts in a manner that states or implies the Department of Veterans Affairs approves or endorses the Contractor’s products or services or considers the Contractor’s products or services superior to other products or services.

(End of Clause)

C.4 VAAR 852.204-71 INFORMATION AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS

SECURITY (FEB 2023)

(a) Definitions. As used in this clause—Business Associate means an entity, including an individual (other than a member of the workforce of a covered entity), company, organization or another covered entity, as defined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) Privacy Rule, that performs or assists in the performance of a function or activity on behalf of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) that involves the creating, receiving, maintaining, transmitting of, or having access to, protected health information (PHI). The term also includes a subcontractor of a business associate that creates, receives, maintains, or transmits PHI on behalf of the business associate.

Business Associate Agreement (BAA) means the agreement, as dictated by the Privacy Rule, between VHA and a business associate, which must be entered into in addition to the underlying contract for services and before any release of PHI can be made to the business associate, in order for the business associate to perform certain functions or activities on behalf of VHA.

Information system means a discrete set of information resources organized for the collection, processing, maintenance, use, sharing, dissemination, or disposition of information whether automated or manual.

Information technology (see FAR 2.101) also means Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

Information technology-related contracts mean those contracts which include services (including support services), and related resources for information technology as defined in 802.101.

Privacy officer means the VA official with responsibility for implementing and oversight of privacy related policies and practices that impact a given VA acquisition.

Sensitive personal information means, with respect to an individual, any information about the individual maintained by VA, including but not limited to the following:

(1) Education, financial transactions, medical history, and criminal or employment history.

(2) Information that can be used to distinguish or trace the individual’s identity, including but not limited to name, social security number, date and place of birth, mother’s maiden name, or biometric records.

Security plan means a formal document that provides an overview of the security requirements for an information system or an information security program and describes the security controls in place or planned for meeting those requirements.

VA Information Security Rules of Behavior for Organizational Users (VA National Rules of Behavior) means a set of VA rules that describes the responsibilities and expected behavior of users of VA information or information systems.

VA sensitive information means all VA data, on any storage media or in any form or format, which requires protection due to the risk of harm that could result from inadvertent or deliberate disclosure, alteration, or destruction of the information and includes sensitive personal information. The term includes information where improper use or disclosure could adversely affect the ability of VA to accomplish its mission, proprietary information, records about individuals requiring protection under various confidentiality provisions such as the Privacy Act and the HIPAA Privacy Rule, and information that can be withheld under the Freedom of Information Act. Examples of VA sensitive information include the following:

individually-identifiable medical, benefits, and personnel information; financial, budgetary, research, quality assurance, confidential commercial, critical infrastructure, investigatory, and law enforcement information; information that is confidential and privileged in litigation such as information protected by the deliberative process privilege, attorney work-product privilege, and the attorney-client privilege; and other information which, if released, could result in violation of law or harm or unfairness to any individual or group, or could adversely affect the national interest or the conduct of Federal programs.

(b) General. Contractors, subcontractors, their employees, third-parties, and business associates with access to VA information, information systems, or information technology (IT) or providing and accessing IT-related goods and services, shall adhere to VA Directive 6500, VA Cybersecurity Program, and the directives and handbooks in the VA 6500 series related to VA information (including VA sensitive information and sensitive personal information and information systems security and privacy), as well as those set forth in the contract specifications, statement of work, or performance work statement. These include, but are not limited to, VA Handbook 6500.6, Contract Security; and VA Directive and Handbook 0710, Personnel Security and Suitability Program, which establishes VA’s procedures, responsibilities, and processes for complying with current Federal law, Executive Orders, policies, regulations, standards and guidance for protecting VA information, information systems (see 802.101, Definitions) security and privacy, and adhering to personnel security requirements when accessing VA information or information systems.

(c) Access to VA information and VA information systems.

(1) Contractors are limited in their request for logical or physical access to VA information or VA information systems for their employees, subcontractors, third parties and business associates to the extent necessary to perform the services or provide the goods as specified in the contracts, agreements, task, delivery or purchase orders.

(2) All Contractors, subcontractors, third parties, and business associates working with VA information are subject to the same investigative requirements as those of VA appointees or employees who have access to the same types of information. The level and process of background security investigations for contractors to access VA information and VA information systems shall be in accordance with VA Directive and Handbook 0710, Personnel Security and Suitability Program.

(3) Contractors, subcontractors, third parties, and business associates who require access to national security programs must have a valid security clearance.

(4) HIPAA Business Associate Agreement requirement. Contractors shall enter into a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) with VHA, VA’s Covered Entity, when contract requirements and access to protected health information is required and when requested by the Contracting Officer, or the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) (see VAAR 824.103–70).

Under the HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules, a Covered Entity (VHA) must have a satisfactory assurance that its PHI will be safeguarded from misuse. To do so, a Covered Entity enters into a BAA with a contractor (now the business associate), which obligates the business associate to only use the Covered Entity’s PHI for the purposes for which it was engaged, provide the same protections and safeguards as is required from the Covered Entity, and agree to the same disclosure restrictions to PHI that is required of the Covered Entity in situations where a contractor—

(i) Creates, receives, maintains, or transmits VHA PHI or that will store, generate, access, exchange, process, or utilize such PHI in order to perform certain health care operations activities or functions on behalf of the Covered Entity; or

(ii) Provides one or more of the services specified in the Privacy Rule to or for the Covered Entity.

(A) Contractors or entities required to execute BAAs for contracts and other agreements become VHA business associates. BAAs are issued by VHA or may be issued by other VA programs in support of VHA. The HIPAA Privacy Rule requires VHA to execute compliant BAAs with persons or entities that create, receive, maintain, or transmit VHA PHI or that will store, generate, access, exchange, process, or utilize such PHI in order to perform certain activities, functions or services to, for, or on behalf of VHA. There may be other VA components or staff offices which also provide certain services and support to VHA and must receive PHI in order to do so. If these components award contracts or enter into other agreements, purchase/delivery orders, modifications and issue governmentwide purchase card transactions to help in the delivery of these services to VHA, they will also fall within the requirement to obtain a satisfactory assurance from these contractors by executing a BAA.

(B) BAA requirement flow down to subcontractors. A prime Contractor required to execute a BAA shall also obtain a satisfactory assurance, in the form of a BAA, that any of its subcontractors who will also create, receive, maintain, or transmit VHA PHI or that will store, generate, access, exchange, process, or utilize such PHI will comply with HIPAA requirements to the same degree as the Contractor. Contractors employing a subcontractor who creates, receives, maintains, or transmits VHA PHI or that will store, generate, access, exchange, process, or utilize such VHA PHI under a contract or agreement is required to execute a BAA with each of its subcontractors which also obligates the subcontractor (i.e., also a business associate) to provide the same protections and safeguards and agree to the same disclosure restrictions to VHA’s PHI that is required of the Covered Entity and the prime Contractor.

(d) Contractor operations required to be in United States. Custom software development and outsourced operations must be located in the U.S. to the maximum extent practicable. If such services are proposed to be performed outside the continental United States, and are not otherwise disallowed by other Federal law, regulations or policy, or other VA policy or other mandates as stated in the contract, specifications, statement of work or performance work statement (including applicable Business Associate Agreements), the Contractor/subcontractor must state in its proposal where all non-U.S. services are provided. At a minimum, the Contractor/ subcontractor must include a detailed Information Technology Security Plan, for review and approval by the Contracting Officer, specifically to address mitigation of the resulting problems of communication, control, and data protection.

(e) Contractor/subcontractor employee reassignment and termination notification.