What does FAR part 13 primarily address?

FAR Part 13 primarily addresses simplified acquisition procedures, which are designed to streamline the procurement process for certain types of purchases. The goal of these procedures is to reduce the regulatory burden on both agencies and contractors, making it easier and more efficient to acquire goods and services when the total dollar value is within specific thresholds. This part encourages direct purchase methods to expedite the acquisition of lower-cost items, thereby promoting small purchases and enabling agencies to respond quickly to local needs while ensuring competition and fair pricing.

This section outlines various rules and guidelines that govern simplified acquisitions, including the use of purchase orders and other streamlined methods, and emphasizes the importance of efficiency in government purchasing. By focusing on smaller contracts, FAR Part 13 facilitates access for small businesses to participate in government contracting, but its primary legislative intent is to establish procedures that simplify the acquisition process itself.