(a) Contracting officers may act on behalf of the head of the agency in this subpart only. Contracting officers may, under appropriate circumstances, require offerors to make the required demonstrations.

The contracting officer shall insert the clause at (HSAR) 48 CFR 3052.211-70, Index for Specifications, when an index or table of contents may be furnished with the specification.

(d) The HCA may reduce or waive the amount of liquidated damages assessed under a contract, if the Commissioner, Financial Management Service, or designee approves.

(c) The following DHS Components may assign priority ratings on contracts and orders placed with contractors to acquire products, materials, and services under the Defense Priorities and Allocations System (DPAS) regulations (15 CFR part 700):

(1) The U.S. Coast Guard in support of certified national defense related programs; and

(2) The Federal Emergency Management Agency in support of emergency preparedness activities.