Get insights on the updates in GSA MAS Refresh 9 including cloud SIN 51810C clarifications, deletions, revisions, expansions, and identical item restrictions.
Every now and then, the General Services Administration (GSA) releases updates to its Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) Solicitation. With the pending release of Refresh 9 on December 17th, 2021, here are some key updates and changes you need to know:
The Special Item Number (SIN) pertaining to Smart Buildings Systems Integration, known as SIN 541513, has been removed. This follows its consolidation into SIN 561210SB during the previous Refresh update.
In response to multiple court injunctions, GSA has updated the note concerning FAR 52.223-99. The updated note accentuates that at the moment, COVID-19 safety measures, including vaccine mandates, are not strictly enforced. Additionally, it indicates that the FAR Clause 52.223-99 would self-delete for contracts where the work is mainly performed, or the awardee is located, in Arizona, following a court ruling.
Cloud SIN 518210C's title and description have been modified. The aim is to emphasize the distinction between cloud computing services, which must be NIST-compliant, and cloud-related professional IT services. Furthermore, the update overtly states that some types of prepaid offerings like "tokens" or "credits" do not fall within this SIN.
The scope of Litigation Support SIN 541611LIT has been broadened to incorporate products and services, particularly focusing on eDiscovery, FOIA Request, and Legal Hold solutions.
A formal note has been added to SIN 333318SBSA, clarifying that this SIN is exclusively reserved for small businesses.
Updates have been made to SIN 339920S to include fitness equipment. Also, its title and description have been revised.
The description of Fitness Center Management Services SIN 713940 has been updated to specify that it does not include products.
Refresh 9 has provided clarity on identical items stipulating that restrictions on these items apply to both products and services. This ensures that identical items are not awarded at different price points or under different SINs without valid business reasons.
Consistently staying updated with changes in the GSA MAS solicitation is essential for prospective and current GSA Schedule contract holders. These changes reflect GSA's continuous efforts to manage its offerings and ensure that the products and services offered through its contracts are appropriately categorized and relevant.
If you are having difficulties managing GSA Schedule Contracts or require assistance in understanding these changes, consider consulting with specialized services like Blackfyre. Their team, led by a former GSA Schedule Reviewer, offers top-tier GSA Schedule Consulting services.
Pedro has extensive background as a Contracting Officer and Contract Specialist, has worked across seven federal agencies, managing contracts totaling over $1 billion in the professional and tech sectors. His notable tenure includes serving with the DoD/DARPA during the inception of their robotics program. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in initiating the Cyber Special Item Number (SIN) within the GSA's IT Schedule 70 as a Team Lead. After graduating from Harvard, he started Blackfyre to help you win your next contract.
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