B.  Positive Comments

Comments: Both respondents stated their strong support for the proposed rule. One respondent viewed it "as a necessary action to implement existing laws and policies for purchasing biobased products by federal agencies and contractors."

Response: Noted.

Comments: One respondent expressed particular support for the provision in the proposed rule directing contracting officers to refer to the USDA list of designated biobased items. Both respondents agreed that the USDA list is an important and growing reminder of the availability of biobased products.

Response: Noted. However, the preference for use of biobased products that are USDA-designated items existed at FAR 52.223-2(a) prior to the proposed rule.

Comments: Both respondents expressed support for the requirement that contractors report annually on the biobased products purchased and their dollar value. One respondent stated that such annual reports, by contractors and agencies, will help measure the growth and success of the program and ensure agency and contractor compliance with the law.

Response: Noted. Also see section C below regarding reporting and section V for a comment on the reporting burden associated with this rule.