Contract Modifications

Modifications to a contract that was previously approved for funding may be permitted without additional competitive bidding if the proposed changes are considered minor and, therefore, exempt from competitive bidding, under state and local procurement laws.  However, if state or local procurement laws require the applicant to rebid the proposed modification, then it must also comply with the Commission’s competitive bidding requirements before adopting the modification.

A “minor” modification falls within the scope of the original contract because it was reasonably anticipated by potential bidders, considering factors such as the extent of any changes in the type of work, performance period, and cost terms as a result of the modification. In assessing whether a change is minor or cardinal, USAC considers the extent of any changes in the type of work, performance period, and cost terms as a result of the modification. A modification falls within the scope of the original contract if it could have been anticipated under the change clause of the contract. This can include contract language that allows for the addition of sites to the contract and upgrades of services (scalability language).

You should discuss potential changes with USAC before making modifications to avoid the risk of losing funding. Although certain minor changes may be exempt from competitive bidding, support is not guaranteed for modified services.

Your reasoning for exemption from the competitive bidding process will be subject to audit.

If the contract modification is not exempt from the competitive bidding process, you must post a new FCC Form 461 (HCF Program Request for Services Form) or FCC Form 465 (Telecom Program Description of Services Requested and Certification Form) and conduct a new competitive bidding process.

Cardinal Changes to Contracts

If state or local procurement laws are silent or are otherwise inapplicable with respect to whether a proposed contract modification must be rebid under state or local competitive bidding processes, the modification must be rebid if it is a “cardinal change.”  A cardinal change occurs when the contract modification requires one party to perform duties that are materially different from those bargained for under the original contract.