USC
United States Code
Procurement ConceptsDefinition
The United States Code (USC) is the official compilation of all federal statutes organized by subject area into 54 titles. Government contracts frequently reference USC sections as the legal authority for procurement rules, contractor obligations, and program requirements.
The USC is the foundation of all federal procurement law. When a contract clause says "pursuant to 10 U.S.C. § 3453" or "as required by 41 U.S.C. § 4712," it's pointing to a specific federal statute that creates a legal requirement.
Key USC titles for government contractors:
- Title 10 — Armed Forces. Contains DoD-specific procurement authority, including rules for competitive procedures, contract types, and small business preferences.
- Title 41 — Public Contracts. Governs civilian agency procurement, including the Competition in Contracting Act and the Office of Federal Procurement Policy.
- Title 15 — Commerce and Trade. Includes the Small Business Act (Chapter 14A), which establishes SBA programs, set-asides, and size standards.
- Title 31 — Money and Finance. Covers the Anti-Deficiency Act and other fiscal law provisions affecting contracts.
- Title 44 — Public Printing and Documents. Includes the Federal Register Act, relevant for rulemaking that affects procurement.
The FAR implements USC provisions into practical procurement procedures. When you see a FAR clause, there's usually a USC section behind it providing the legal authority.
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