Proposed Rule on AbilityOne Program Fees and Subcontracting

The U.S. AbilityOne Commission is proposing to update regulations that govern how two central nonprofit agencies collect fees from smaller nonprofits in the AbilityOne Program. The program requires federal agencies to purchase certain products and services from nonprofits that employ people who are blind or have severe disabilities. The central agencies, National Industries for the Blind and SourceAmerica, handle the distribution and currently charge a program fee to the participating nonprofits.

Why it matters: The practical effect is mostly administrative. Federal contracting officers and the nonprofits that participate in AbilityOne will get clearer rules on how program fees are authorized and how subcontracting is handled. The change does not alter the program core mission, funding levels, or hiring requirements. It simply updates the paperwork framework to match agreements the Commission already put in place.

Who it affects

• National Industries for the Blind and SourceAmerica, the two central nonprofit agencies that manage AbilityOne contracts

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This proposed rule was published by the U.S. AbilityOne Commission in the Federal Register; readers should review the full document and comment period details before relying on it.

Agency: Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled
Source: Federal Register — read the official document