4.804-5  Procedures for closing out contract files.

2.  Amend section 4.804-5 by revising paragraph (a)(2) to read as follows.

4.804-5  Procedures for closing out contract files.

(a) * * *

(2)  Final patent report is cleared. If a final patent report is required, the contracting officer may proceed with contract closeout in accordance with the following procedures, or as otherwise prescribed by agency procedures:

(i)  Final patent reports should be cleared within 60 days of receipt.

(ii)  If the final patent report is not received, the contracting officer shall notify the contractor of the contractor's obligations and the Government's rights under the applicable patent rights clause, in accordance with 27.303. If the contractor fails to respond to this notification, the contracting officer may proceed with contract closeout upon consultation with the agency legal counsel responsible for patent matters regarding the contractor's failure to respond.

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