When can a contracting officer modify FAR provisions and clauses?

A contracting officer can modify FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation) provisions and clauses specifically when the FAR itself authorizes the modification. This is rooted in the FAR's authoritative framework, which guides procurement processes and establishes terms and conditions for federal contracts. The provisions and clauses are designed to ensure consistency and compliance with federal laws and policies, and any modifications need to adhere to these established guidelines.

The justification for modifications might arise from certain situations or legal changes, and the FAR provides outlined processes for when and how such modifications should take place. This reason ensures that any changes are formally recognized, documented, and align with federal regulations.

The other scenarios described, while they may seem plausible, do not grant automatic authority to modify FAR provisions or clauses. For instance, agency requests or contractor proposals for changes would still require that any modifications comply with existing FAR guidelines, and a significant budget increase does not inherently permit changes to its provisions or clauses without following the appropriate modification procedures. Thus, the authority to modify comes exclusively from what the FAR allows.