Department of the Treasury Awarded a Contract to AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR LABORATORY ACCREDITATION for $42,170.93

Summary of Award

The U.S. federal government, represented by the Department of the Treasury and its subagencies, the Bureau of the Fiscal Service, and the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, awarded a significant contract to the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA). This contract, identified by the purchase order number 20341421P00013, encompasses laboratory accreditation services for a period spanning from April 1, 2021, to March 31, 2025.

### Overview of the Contract

The contract is categorized as a purchase order (type B), with a full description indicating the provision of laboratory accreditation services. The primary intention of this agreement is to facilitate support services in professional certifications and accreditations, allowing for the oversight of laboratories to ensure they meet specific standards. The total obligation under this award amounts to $42,170.93, with the entire sum representing both the base exercised options and the potential full realization of the agreement. ### Recipient Details The recipient, the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA), is situated in Frederick, Maryland. This organization operates as a nonprofit entity specializing in the accreditation of laboratories across various industries to ensure consistency and quality in testing processes. A2LA is recognized as a tax-exempt corporate entity that does not fall under the classification of a small business according to governmental standards. ### Agency Participation The Department of the Treasury, a pivotal financial agency of the U.S. government, is the primary funding and awarding body behind this contract. Its commitment to ensuring proper regulatory oversight in fields such as taxation and trade extends to this partnership with A2LA for laboratory accreditation. This partnership emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards of accuracy and reliability in environmental and industrial testing procedures. ### Financial Transactions and Modifications The financial transactions related to this contract highlight the stepwise disbursement and modifications effected during its term. Notably, these transactions track the actual fund transfers and amendments that shaped the current state of the contract. 1. **Initial Disbursement**: The initial transaction occurred on March 15, 2021, with an immediate financial commitment of $15,740. This foundational sum set the stage for the contractual activities even before the official start date. 2. **Subsequent Modifications**: As the contract term progressed, several modifications adjusted the financial dispensation: - **March 22, 2022 (Mod P00001)**: A transaction amounting to $2,300 was processed, reflecting necessary financial amendments in alignment with project needs or administrative adjustments. - **January 18, 2023 (Mod P00002)**: A further $12,138 was disbursed, representing a significant allocation that likely aligned with specific accreditation activities or milestones achieved by A2LA. - **March 6, 2024 (Mod P00003)**: Another adjustment with a transaction of $1,300 indicated a continuation of financial support towards the completion of the contractual obligations. - **April 10, 2025 (Mod P00005)**: Although recorded with a $0 transaction amount, this entry signifies administrative modifications or confirmations relevant to the conclusion or extension of services. ### Contractual Structure and Obligations The contractual nature is defined as "firm fixed price," ensuring that the cost is agreed upon in advance and is not subject to change based on the recipient's expenses. This arrangement provides financial clarity and stability for both the government and A2LA. The lack of competition, denoted by the "SSS" procurement strategy ("Single Source Selection"), emphasizes the unique standing of A2LA in offering these specific accreditation services with no alternative vendors identified. ### Performance and Location The place of performance aligns geographically with A2LA's headquarters in Frederick, Maryland, underscoring the organization's centralized operations in administering laboratory accreditation services throughout the U.S. This ensures that the facilities and staff are well-positioned to meet the demanding oversight responsibilities as per the agreement. ### Recipient Classification Operating as a U.S.-owned business, A2LA's classification includes its status as a nonprofit, highlighting its mission-driven rather than profit-driven focus. This characteristic is essential in maintaining the integrity and unbiased nature of the accreditation services they provide. ### Conclusion The awarded contract between the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation reflects a crucial partnership aimed at upholding the standards of laboratory testing. Financial transactions throughout the contract highlight the phased funding and project adjustments necessary to achieve stated objectives. As a key player in the realm of professional organization support services, A2LA fulfills a vital role in ensuring that laboratories meet stringent standards, thereby supporting public and commercial interests alike.