What are the mandatory sources?
FAR Part 8 has designated Federal Prison Industries (UNICOR) as a mandatory government source of supply for items over $3,000 that purchase cardholders must consider in acquiring supplies and services. The blanket waiver threshold was increased from $25 to $3,000. This means that contracting officers are no longer required to purchase products and services from FPI schedules that are at or below $3,000. DAPS is mandatory for all printing services. Purchase Cardholders are not authorized to purchase printing or duplication services unless specifically approved in writing by the cognizant office of the Defense Automated Printing Service (DAPS). For example, if DAPS cannot fulfill your needs (not able to finish the project by your deadline) and provides you with a waiver you may go elsewhere (commercial). All questions concerning definitions of printing, duplicating, etc., should be referred to DAPS. JWOD, GSA, and Federal Supply Schedules are mandatory sources. Purchase cardholders shall
