If a change to a contract appears to significantly alter the original agreement, what must the Contracting Officer do?

When a change to a contract appears to significantly alter the original agreement, it is essential for the Contracting Officer to consider it a new contracting action. This is important because significant changes can affect the scope, price, deliverables, or terms of the contract, fundamentally modifying the relationship and obligations established in the original agreement.

By considering it as a new contracting action, the Contracting Officer ensures that all statutory and regulatory requirements are met, which may include conducting a new market analysis, ensuring compliance with purchasing policies, allowing for competition, and revisiting any necessary approvals or funding requirements.

Moreover, recognizing a significant change as a new action helps to maintain transparency and accountability within the procurement process, mitigating risks associated with unauthorized agreement modifications. This approach allows for the proper documentation and justification of changes, ensuring that all parties are fully aware and in agreement with the revised terms.

Ultimately, this consideration protects the integrity of the procurement process and ensures adherence to legal and regulatory frameworks governing contract modifications.