Which statutes primarily govern federal contracting?

The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and the Competition in Contracting Act (CICA) are the primary statutes that govern federal contracting. The FAR serves as the foundational framework for procurement processes, providing guidelines to ensure that federal contracting is conducted transparently, fairly, and in accordance with the principles of accountability. It outlines the policies and procedures for various aspects of acquisition, including contract types, competition requirements, and adherence to statutory compliance.

CICA complements the FAR by establishing rules that promote full and open competition in government contracting, thereby ensuring that contracts are awarded based on merit and to the best value for the government. This act was specifically enacted to prevent favoritism and to enhance public trust in federal procurement systems.

Together, FAR and CICA create a comprehensive regulatory environment that controls how federal contracts are obtained and managed, making them pivotal components in the governance of federal contracting activities.