On June 18, 2025, the Federal Acquisition Regulatory (FAR) Council announced the release of new model deviation text to support the implementation of the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) Initiative. This significant regulatory update, authorized by Executive Order 14275 and guided by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Memorandum M-25-26, continues the transformation of the FAR into a clearer, more efficient, and user-friendly regulation.
The RFO Initiative aims to modernize the FAR by removing outdated and non-statutory requirements, promoting plain language, and providing more practical tools for the acquisition workforce. The model deviation text serves as a bridge for federal agencies as they shift from legacy language to the streamlined, updated regulation.
Model deviation text provides standardized language that agencies may use to deviate from current FAR clauses while remaining aligned with RFO policy goals. These deviations are temporary but essential tools to facilitate consistent and effective implementation of the revised regulation across all federal agencies.
Key FAR Parts Affected and Explanation of Changes
FAR Part 11 – Describing Agency Needs
Status: Open for informal public feedback until August 4, 2025.
Explanation of Changes:
Part 11 now emphasizes outcomes over prescriptive requirements. The new model deviation text simplifies the process by encouraging agencies to focus on performance-based needs and commercially available solutions. Language that previously required detailed technical descriptions is being revised to allow more flexibility, reduce administrative burdens, and promote innovation.
Implementation Support Available:
A “Practitioner Album” for FAR Part 11 has been released, offering templates, use cases, and cross-referenced statutory authority to help acquisition professionals transition smoothly.
FAR Part 1 – Federal Acquisition Regulations System
Explanation of Changes:
FAR Part 1 provides the framework for interpreting and applying all other FAR parts. Under the RFO, this section has been revised to reflect the regulatory shift toward plain language and principles-based governance. Model deviation text removes redundant legal citations and jargon-heavy instructions, clarifying roles, authorities, and responsibilities for acquisition professionals.
Implementation Support Available:
The Practitioner Album for FAR Part 1 provides annotated guidance, comparison charts, and FAQs that explain how to apply the revised framework within current acquisition planning and decision-making processes.
FAR Part 34 – Major System Acquisition
Explanation of Changes:
Revisions to FAR Part 34 is said to promote agility in the procurement of complex systems by eliminating outdated program reporting requirements and enabling incremental development. The model deviation text emphasizes life-cycle affordability and program risk mitigation over rigid milestone structures.
Implementation Support Available:
The Part 34 Practitioner Album includes checklists, workflow diagrams, and alternative contract structure samples to support flexible system acquisition strategies aligned with modern IT and defense procurement standards.
To ensure effective adoption, the FAR Council has also published a comprehensive FAR Over FAQ section. This resource addresses common concerns, explains the rationale behind key changes, and provides step-by-step implementation guidance for acquisition offices.
Feedback mechanisms for FAR Part 11 remain open through August 4, allowing practitioners and stakeholders to contribute to the final drafting of the updated clauses.
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