OMB disapproves
this request for approval to allow VA to modify the information
collected on the Standard Forms 18 and 129. This request fails to
meet the requirements specified at 5 CFR 1320.4(b)(1) and (3) that
information collections be the least burdensome necessary for
proper performance of agency functions and that collections of
information have practical utility. VA's request to collect
information on the veteran-owned status or Native American-owned
status of businesses wishing to receive information on VA
procurement activities or businesses being asked to provide
quotations on VA procurement items is unwarranted given the
statutorily required process reflected by the Standard Forms 18 and
129 that are approved for government wide use. Futher, VA would, in
collecting this information, give the appearance of creating a
preferential class of businesses in the procurement process where
the law is specific as to the groups entitled to such preferences.
Finally, VA in creating forms differing from those in government
wide use for this purpose, is unnecessarily burdening small
businesses participating in the government procurement
process.
Inventory as of this Action
Requested
Previously Approved
11/30/1990
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
VA HAS EXPANDED THE EXISTING VIETNAM
ERA AND DISABLED VETERAN-OWNED BUSINESS OUTREACH PROGRAM TO INCLUDE
ALL VETERAN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESSE TO ADMINISTER THIS PROGRAM AND
ACCUMULATE DATA, VA REQUIRES SIGNED SELF-CERTIFICATATION BY SUCH
VETERAN-OWNED FIRMS AS PART OF THEIR BID PROPOSAL IN RESPONSE TO VA
SOLICITATIONS FOR GOODS AND SERVICES.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that
the collection of information encompassed by this request complies
with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR
1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding
the proposed collection of information, that the certification
covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a
benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control
number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of
these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked
and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.