V.  Determination to Issue an Interim Rule

A determination has been made under the authority of the Secretary of Defense (DoD) that urgent and compelling circumstances exist to promulgate this interim rule without prior opportunity for public comments pursuant to 41 U.S.C. 1707 and FAR 1.501-3(b). This action is necessary to ensure DoD implements cash flow improvements for small business firms as quickly as possible. Accelerating payments is a way to boost the financial health of small businesses. At present, the authority to accelerate payments at DFARS 232.903 and 232.906 is limited to small disadvantaged business. Implementation of the interim rule will expand that authority to the entire community of DoD's small business suppliers. However, DoD will consider public comments received in response to this interim rule in the formation of the final rule.

List of Subjects in 48 CFR Part 232

Government procurement.

Mary Overstreet,
Editor, Defense Acquisition Regulations System.

Therefore, 48 CFR part 232 is amended as follows: