United States Code(USC)
The official codification of federal statutory law, organized by title and section — many acquisition regulations trace to USC authority.
Overview
The United States Code (USC) is the official compilation of federal statutes enacted by Congress. It is organized into 54 titles, each covering a broad subject area. Title 10 (Armed Forces), Title 41 (Procurement), and Title 15 (Commerce) contain many statutes that govern federal acquisition. The FAR and agency supplements implement and elaborate on these underlying laws.
Why It Matters in GovCon
Understanding the statutory basis for acquisition rules helps contractors interpret regulations and anticipate policy changes. Key statutes include the Competition in Contracting Act (CICA), Small Business Act, and various appropriations provisions. When the FAR cites "law" or "statute," it often references a specific USC section. Legal research in procurement often starts with USC.
Key Details
- Structure: Titles (e.g., 41 USC), chapters, sections (e.g., 41 USC 3301).
- Title 41: Federal procurement law, including CICA and procurement integrity.
- Title 10: Defense-specific procurement and acquisition.
- Title 15: Small Business Act and SBA authorities.
- Amendments: Congress amends USC through new laws; the FAR Council then updates the FAR to implement changes.
- CFR vs. USC: CFR contains regulations (executive branch); USC contains statutes (Congress).
Related Terms
- Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)
- Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)
- Competition in Contracting Act (CICA)
- Small Business Act
More Regulations Terms
A federal law requiring the U.S. government to prefer domestic products and materials in its procurement.
A federal law requiring contractors on federally funded construction projects to pay workers prevailing local wages.
The supplement to the FAR that contains acquisition regulations specific to the Department of Defense.
The primary set of rules governing how the federal government purchases goods and services, covering everything from competition requirements to contract administration.
A federal law that gives the public the right to request access to federal agency records, subject to exemptions.
The acquisition regulation that supplements the FAR for the Department of Homeland Security.
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