DPAS Regs Updated and Expanded

On August 14, 2014, Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security issued a final rule revising the Defense Priorities and Allocations System (DPAS) Regulations. Among other changes, the final rule (1) expands the scope of DPAS coverage by adding homeland security and critical infrastructure protection/restoration activities as reasons that rated orders may be issued; (2) adds language clarifying that recipients of rated orders have delegated authority to place ratings on contracts or orders with lower-tier contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers; and (3) reduces the time for written follow-up if a party is unable to comply with a rated order.