GSA Refresh 5 Changes

The General Services Administration (GSA) is expected to unveil its Refresh Number 5 of the Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) Solicitation 47QSMD20R0001 on November 9, 2020. The forthcoming announcement on beta.SAM.gov will introduce significant updates to the MAS program. The following sections aim to briefly summarize the key changes.

Solicitation-Wide Changes

These significant changesapply to all GSA MAS Contracts:

• Section 889 "Part B" Representation in SAM: The new rules require companies to indicate whether they employ prohibited telecommunications equipment or services. This update aligns with section 889 Part B, which expressly prohibits government contractors from the use of certain prohibited telecom.
• Removal of GSAR 552.204-70 Clause: The GSAR 552.204-70 clause, directly related to contracting for certain telecommunications and video surveillance services or equipment. It is being removed as it's now redundant and unnecessary.
• Update of Vendor Templates: The Refresh 5 update will include modified templates for the Agent Authorization Letter and Request to Hold Continuous Contracts. Any request submitted subsequent to the release of Refresh 5 must use updated templates.

Category-Specific Changes in Professional Services

Category-specific changes will come into play within the Professional Services Large Category, with Refresh 5 introducing the following changes:

SIN Additions

1. 562910RMI: Environmental Remediation Services – Multiple Industries
2. 541713: Research and Development in Nanotechnology
3. 541714: Research and Development in Biotechnology (except Nanobiotechnology)
4. 541715AIR: Engineering R&D for Aircraft, Aircraft Engines and Engine Parts
5. 541715APM: Engineering R&D for Aircraft Parts, Guided Missiles, Space Vehicles, Propulsion Units and Parts
6. 541330EMI: Engineering Services Related to Military, Aerospace Equipment, Weapons, Energy Policy Act of 1992, Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture
7. 541720: Research and Development in the Social Sciences and Humanities

SIN Updates

Two existing SINs within the Professional Services Large Category will have updates:

• 562910REM: The description for Environmental Remediation Services is revised to differentiate it from the new SIN 562910RMI. It will now focus on remediation services encompassing three or more industries/NAICS codes, primarily under NAICS 562910.
• 541690 (now Technical Consulting Services): This SIN, previously "Integrated Logistics Support", will be renamed "Technical Consulting Services" with a broader scope, covering technical consulting across various domains, excluding environmental, energy, and IT consulting. Companies holding this SIN must update their pricelist to reflect the new title and consider whether their services align with the updated scope.

Implications for GSA Contract Holders and Prospective Contractors

Existing Contract Holders: Current GSA contract holders should review these changes in detail. This is especially pertinent for those that hold, or show interest in the updated SINs. They may need to modify their contracts to align with new requirements or add new SINs that better portray their offerings.

Prospective Contractors: For those potentially submitting proposals, awareness of these updates is crucial in ensuring their offerings align with the current SIN descriptions and requirements.

Conclusion

The GSA's Refresh 5 brings significant changes, particularly in the Professional Services category. Understanding these updates to adjust strategies is important for GSA contractors and those planning to enter the GSA Schedule. It shows GSA's commitment to update their offerings in line with current market needs and regulatory requirements. With the guidance of a former GSA Schedule Reviewer, we look forward to providing the best GSA Schedule Consulting services.