SUMMARY:  

This Flash provides guidance to Contracting Officers regarding implementing Section 3610 of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) Act in contracts. It provides additional guidance to Contracting Officers to that provided in Policy Flash 2020-18 “Initial Guidance Regarding Actions to Address Effect of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)” issued on March 13, 2020.

Section 3610 of the CARES Act gives agencies the authority to modify the terms and conditions of a contract, or other agreement, without consideration. The guidance in this Flash was formulated, consistent with the requirements of both Section 3610 and draft OMB guidance, for contracts. This does not preclude application of Section 3610 to other agreements. Determinations regarding the application of Section 3610 to other agreements may be made on a case-by-case basis in consultation with cognizant program officials and legal counsel.

There are two attachments: 1) guidance to Contracting Officers on implementation of the CARES Act; and 2) clauses that may be used in cost reimbursement-type contracts and in fixed-price/time-and-materials type contracts.

Contracting Officer Questions concerning this policy flash should be directed to the Contract and Financial Assistance Policy Division at DOE_oapmpolicy@hq.doe.gov

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