48 C.F.R. PART 27—PATENTS, DATA, AND COPYRIGHTS
Title 48 - Federal Acquisition Regulations System
Authority: 40 U.S.C. 121(c); 10 U.S.C. chapter 137; and 42 U.S.C. 2473(c).
Source: 49 FR 12974, Mar. 30, 1984, unless otherwise noted.
This part prescribes policies, procedures, and contract clauses pertaining to patents and directs agencies to develop coverage for Rights in Data and Copyrights. The policies, procedures, and clauses prescribed by this part 27 are applicable to all agencies. Agencies are authorized to adopt alternate policies, procedures, and clauses, but only to the extent determined necessary to meet the specific requirements of laws, executive orders, treaties, or international agreements. Any agency action adopting such alternate policies, procedures, and clauses shall be covered in published agency regulations. The policies pertaining to patents, data, and copyrights are set forth in this part 27 and the related clauses in part 52. (a) The Government encourages the maximum practical commercial use of inventions made while performing Government contracts. (b) Generally, the Government will not refuse to award a contract on the grounds that the prospective contractor may infringe a patent. (c) Generally, the Government encourages the use of inventions in performing contracts and, by appropriate contract clauses, authorizes and consents to such use, even though the inventions may be covered by U.S. patents and indemnification against infringement may be appropriate. (d) Generally, the Government should be indemnified against infringement of U.S. patents resulting from performing contracts when the supplies or services acquired under the contracts normally are or have been sold or offered for sale by any supplier to the public in the commercial open market or are the same as such supplies or services with relatively minor modifications. (e) The Government acquires supplies or services on a competitive basis in accordance with part 6, but it is important that the efforts directed toward full and open competition not improperly demand or use data relating to private developments. (f) The Government honors the rights in data resulting from private developments and limits its demands for such rights to those essential for Government purposes. (g) The Government honors rights in patents, data, and copyrights, and complies with the stipulations of law in using or acquiring such rights. (h) Generally, the Government requires that contractors obtain permission from copyright owners before including privately-owned copyrighted works in data required to be delivered under Government contracts. [49 FR 12974, Mar. 30, 1984, as amended at 50 FR 1743, Jan. 11, 1985; 50 FR 52429, Dec. 23, 1985] This subpart prescribes policy with respect to— (a) Patent infringement liability resulting from work performed by or for the Government; (b) Royalties payable in connection with performing Government contracts; and (c) Security requirements covering patent applications containing classified subject matter filed by contractors. (a) In those cases where the Government has authorized or consented to the manufacture or use of an invention described in and covered by a patent of the United States, any suit for infringement of the patent based on the manufacture or use of the invention by or for the United States by a contractor (including a subcontractor at any tier) can be maintained only against the Government in the U.S. Claims Court and not against the contractor or subcontractor (28 U.S.C. 1498). To ensure that work by a contractor or subcontractor under a Government contract may not be enjoined by reason of patent infringement, the Government shall give authorization and consent in accordance with this regulation. The liability of the Government for damages in any such suit against it may, however, ultimately be borne by the contractor or subcontractor in accordance with the terms of any patent indemnity clause also included in the contract, and an authorization and consent clause does not detract from any patent indemnification commitment by the contractor or subcontractor. Therefore, both a patent indemnity clause and an authorization and consent clause may be included in the same contract. (b) The contracting officer shall not include in any solicitation or contract— (1) Any clause whereby the Government expressly agrees to indemnify the contractor against liability for patent infringement; or (2) Any authorization and consent clause when both complete performance and delivery are outside the United States, its possessions, and Puerto Rico. (a) The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.227–1, Authorization and Consent, in solicitations and contracts (including those for construction; architect-engineer services; dismantling, demolition, or removal of improvements; and noncommon carrier communication services), except when using simplified acquisition procedures or both complete performance and delivery are outside the United States, its possessions, and Puerto Rico. Although the clause is not required when simplified acquisition procedures are used, it may be used with them. (b) The contracting officer shall insert the clause with its Alternate I in all R&D solicitations and contracts (including those for construction and architect-engineer services calling exclusively for R&D work or exclusively for experimental work), unless both complete performance and delivery are outside the United States, its possessions, and Puerto Rico. When a proposed contract involves both R&D work and supplies or services, and the R&D work is the primary purpose of the contract, the contracting officer shall use this alternate. In all other proposed contracts involving both R&D work and supplies or services, the contracting officer shall use the basic clause. Also, when a proposed contract involves either R&D or supplies and materials, in addition to construction or architect-engineer work, the contracting officer shall use the basic clause. (c) If the solicitation or contract is for communication services with a common carrier and the services are unregulated and not priced by a tariff schedule set by a regulatory body, the contracting officer shall use the clause with its Alternate II. [49 FR 12974, Mar. 30, 1984, as amended at 60 FR 34758, July 3, 1995] The contractor is required to notify the contracting officer of all claims of infringement that come to the contractor's attention in connection with performing a Government contract. The contractor is also required, when requested, to assist the Government with any evidence and information in its possession in connection with any suit against the Government, or any claims against the Government made before suit has been instituted, on account of any alleged patent or copyright infringement arising out of or resulting from the contract performance. The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.227–2, Notice and Assistance Regarding Patent and Copyright Infringement, in supply, service, or research and development solicitations and contracts (including construction and architect-engineer contracts) which anticipate a contract value above the simplified acquisition threshold, except when complete performance and delivery are outside the United States, its possessions, and Puerto Rico, unless the contracts indicate that the supplies or other deliverables are ultimately to be shipped into one of those areas. [60 FR 34758, July 3, 1995] (a) To the extent set forth in this section, the Government requires reimbursement for liability for patent infringement arising out of or resulting from performing construction contracts or contracts for supplies or services that normally are or have been sold or offered for sale by any supplier to the public in the commercial open market or that are the same as such supplies or services with relatively minor modifications. Appropriate clauses for indemnification of the Government are prescribed in the following subsections. (b) A patent indemnity clause shall not be used in the following situations: (1) When the clause at 52.227–1, Authorization and Consent, with its Alternate I, is included in the contract, except that in contracts calling also for supplies of the kind described in paragraph (a) above, a patent indemnity clause may be used solely with respect to such supplies. (2) When the contract is for supplies or services (or such items with relatively minor modifications) that clearly are not or have not been sold or offered for sale by any supplier to the public in the commercial open market. However, a patent indemnity clause may be included in (i) sealed bid contracts to obtain an indemnity regarding specific components, spare parts, or services so sold or offered for sale (see 27.203–2(b) below), and (ii) contracts to be awarded (either by sealed bid or negotiation) if a patent owner contends that the acquisition would result in patent infringement and the prospective contractor, after responding to a solicitation that did not contain an indemnity clause, is willing to indemnify the Government against such infringement either (A) without increase in price on the basis that the patent is invalid or not infringed, or (B) for other good reasons. (3) When both performance and delivery are to be outside the United States, its possessions, and Puerto Rico, unless the contract indicates that the supplies or other deliverables are ultimately to be shipped into one of those areas. (4) When the contract is awarded using simplified acquisition procedures. (5) When the contract is solely for architect-engineer work (see part 36). [49 FR 12974, Mar. 30, 1984, as amended at 50 FR 1743, Jan. 11, 1985; 50 FR 52429, Dec. 23, 1985; 60 FR 34759, July 3, 1995] (a) Except when prohibited by 27.203–1(b) above, the contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.227–3, Patent Indemnity, in sealed bid contracts for supplies or services (excluding construction and dismantling, demolition, and removal of improvements), if the contracting officer determines that the supplies or services (or such items with relatively minor modifications) normally are or have been sold or offered for sale by any supplier to the public in the commercial open market. Also the clause may be included as authorized in 27.203–1(b)(2)(i). (b) In solicitations and contracts (excluding those for construction) that call in part for specific components, spare parts, or services (or such items with relatively minor modifications) that normally are or have been sold or offered for sale by any supplier to the public in the commercial open market, the contracting officer may use the clause with its Alternate I or II, as appropriate. The choice between Alternate I (identification of excluded items) and Alternate II (identification of included items) should be based upon simplicity, Government administrative convenience and ease of identification of the items. (c) In solicitations and contracts for communication services and facilities where performance is by a common carrier, and the services are unregulated and are not priced by a tariff schedule set by a regulatory body, use the basic clause with its Alternate III. [49 FR 12974, Mar. 30, 1984, as amended at 50 FR 1743, Jan. 11, 1985; 50 FR 52429, Dec. 23, 1985] A patent indemnity clause is not required in negotiated contracts, (except construction contracts covered at 27.203–5), but may be used as discussed in 27.203–4 below. A decision to omit a patent indemnity clause in a negotiated fixed-price contract described in this subsection should be based on a price consideration to the Government for forgoing the indemnification rights normally received by commercial purchasers of the same supplies or services. [49 FR 12974, Mar. 30, 1984, as amended at 51 FR 2665, Jan. 17, 1986] (a) The contracting officer may insert the clause at 52.227–3, Patent Indemnity— (1) As authorized in 27.203–1(b)(2)(ii); and (2) Except as prohibited by 27.203–1(b), in solicitations anticipating negotiated contracts (and such contracts) for supplies or services (excluding construction and dismantling, demolition, and removal of improvements), if the contracting officer determines that the supplies or services (or such items with relatively minor modifications) normally are or have been sold or offered for sale by any supplier to the public in the commercial open market. Ordinarily, the contracting officer, in consultation with the prospective contractor, should be able to determine whether the supplies or services being purchased normally are or have been sold or offered for sale by any supplier to the public in the commercial open market. (For negotiated construction contracts, see 27.203–5). (b) In solicitations and contracts that call in part for specific components, spare parts, or services (or such items with relatively minor modifications) that normally are or have been sold or offered for sale by any supplier to the public in the commercial open market, the contracting officer may use the clause with its Alternate I or II, as appropriate. The choice between Alternate I (identification of excluded items) and Alternate II (identification of included items) should be based upon simplicity, Government administrative convenience, and the ease of identification of the items. (c) In solicitations and contracts for communication services and facilities where performance is by a common carrier, and the services are unregulated and are not priced by a tariff schedule set by a regulatory body, the clause shall be used with its Alternate III. Except as prohibited by 27.203–1(b), the contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.227–4, Patent Indemnity—Construction Contracts, in solicitations and contracts for construction or that are fixed-price for dismantling, demolition, or removal of improvements. If it is determined that the construction will necessarily involve the use of structures, products, materials, equipment, processes, or methods that are nonstandard, noncommercial, or special, the contracting officer may expressly exclude them from the patent indemnification by using the basic clause with its Alternate I. If, in the Government's interest, it is appropriate to exempt one or more specific United States patents from the patent indemnity clause, the contracting officer shall obtain written approval from the agency head or designee and shall insert the clause at 52.227–5, Waiver of Indemnity, in solicitations and contracts in addition to the appropriate patent indemnity clause. The contracting officer shall document the contract file with a copy of the written approval. (a)(1) To determine whether royalties anticipated or actually paid under Government contracts are excessive, improper, or inconsistent with any Government rights in particular inventions, patents, or patent applications, contracting officers shall require prospective contractors to furnish certain royalty information and shall require contractors to furnish certain royalty reports. Contracting officers shall take appropriate action to reduce or eliminate excessive or improper royalties. (2) Royalty information shall not be required (except for information under 27.204–3) in sealed bid contracts unless the need for such information is approved at a level above that of the contracting officer as being necessary for proper protection of the Government's interests. (b) Any solicitations that may result in a negotiated contract for which royalty information is desired or for which cost or pricing data is obtained (see 15.403) should contain a provision requesting information relating to any proposed charge for royalties. If the response to a solicitation includes a charge for royalties, the contracting officer shall, before award of the contract, forward the information relating to the proposed payments of royalties to the office having cognizance of patent matters for the contracting activity concerned. The cognizant office shall promptly advise the contracting officer of appropriate action. Before award, the contracting officer shall take action to protect the Government's interest with respect to such royalties, giving due regard to all pertinent factors relating to the proposed contract and the advice of the cognizant office. (c) The contracting officer, when considering the approval of a subcontract, shall require and obtain the same royalty information and take the same action with respect to such subcontracts in relation to royalties as required for prime contracts under paragraph (b) of this subsection. However, consent need not be withheld pending receipt of advice in regard to such royalties from the office having cognizance of patent matters. (d) The contracting officer shall forward the royalty information and/or royalty reports received to the office having cognizance of patent matters for the contracting activity concerned for advice as to appropriate action. [49 FR 12974, Mar. 30, 1984, as amended at 52 FR 19803, May 27, 1987; 56 FR 15152, Apr. 15, 1991; 62 FR 51271, Sept. 30, 1997] The contracting officer shall insert a solicitation provision substantially as shown in 52.227–6, Royalty Information, in any solicitation that may result in a negotiated contract for which royalty information is desired or for which cost or pricing data is obtained under 15.403. If the solicitation is for communication services and facilities by a common carrier, use the provision with its Alternate I. [49 FR 12974, Mar. 30, 1984, as amended at 56 FR 15153, Apr. 15, 1991; 62 FR 51271, Sept. 30, 1997] (a) When the Government is obligated to pay a royalty on a patent because of a license agreement between the Government and a patent owner and the contracting officer knows (or has reason to believe) that the licensed patent will be applicable to a prospective contract, the Government should furnish information relating to the royalty to prospective offerors since it serves the interest of both the Government and the offerors. In such situations, the contracting officer should include in the solicitation a notice of the license, the number of the patent, and the royalty rate recited in the license. (b) When the Government is obligated to pay such a royalty, the solicitation should also require offerors to furnish information indicating whether or not each offeror is a licensee under the patent or the patent owner. This information is necessary so that the Government may either (1) evaluate an offeror's price by adding an amount equal to the royalty, or (2) negotiate a price reduction with an offeror-licensee when the offeror is licensed under the same patent at a lower royalty rate. (c) If the Government is obligated to pay a royalty on a patent involved in the prospective contract, the contracting officer shall insert in the solicitation, substantially as shown, the provision at 52.227–7, Patents—Notice of Government Licensee. (a) If at any time the contracting officer has reason to believe that any royalties paid, or to be paid, under an existing or prospective contract or subcontract are inconsistent with Government rights, excessive, or otherwise improper, the facts shall be promptly reported to the office having cognizance of patent matters for the contracting activity concerned. The cognizant office shall review the royalties thus reported and such royalties as are reported under 27.204 and 27.206 and, in accordance with agency procedures, shall either recommend appropriate action to the contracting officer or, if authorized, shall take appropriate action. (b) In coordination with the cognizant office, the contracting officer shall promptly act to protect the Government against payment of royalties on supplies or services— (1) With respect to which the Government has a royalty-free license; (2) At a rate in excess of the rate at which the Government is licensed; or (3) When the royalties in whole or in part otherwise constitute an improper charge. (c) In appropriate cases, the contracting officer in coordination with the cognizant office shall obtain a refund pursuant to any refund of royalties clause in the contract (see 27.206) or negotiate for a reduction of royalties. (d) For guidance in evaluating information furnished pursuant to 27.204 and 27.205(a) above, see 31.205–37 and 31.311–34. See also 31.109 regarding advance understandings on particular cost items, including royalties. When a fixed-price contract is negotiated under circumstances that make it questionable whether or not substantial amounts of royalties will have to be paid by the contractor or a subcontractor, such royalties may be included in the target or contract price, provided the contract specifies that the Government will be reimbursed the amount of such royalties if they are not paid. Such circumstances might include, for example, either a pending Government anti-trust action or prospective litigation on the validity of a patent or patents or on the enforceability of an agreement (upon which the contractor or subcontractor bases the asserted obligation) to pay the royalties to be included in the target or contract price. The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.227–9, Refund of Royalties, in negotiated fixed-price contracts and solicitations contemplating such contracts if the contracting officer determines that circumstances make it questionable whether or not substantial amounts of royalties will have to be paid by the contractor or a subcontractor at any tier. (a) Unauthorized disclosure of classified subject matter, whether in patent applications or resulting from the issuance of a patent, may be a violation of 18 U.S.C. 792 et seq. (Espionage and Censorship), and related statutes, and may be contrary to the interests of national security. (b) Upon receipt from the contractor of a patent application, not yet filed, that has been submitted by the contractor in compliance with paragraph (a) or (b) of the clause at 52.227–10, Filing of Patent Applications—Classified Subject Matter, the contracting officer shall ascertain the proper security classification of the patent application. Upon a determination that the application contains classified subject matter, the contracting officer shall inform the contractor of any instructions deemed necessary or advisable relating to transmittal of the application to the United States Patent Office in accordance with procedures in the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual. If the material is classified Secret or higher, the contracting officer shall make every effort to notify the contractor of the determination within 30 days, pursuant to paragraph (a) of the clause. (c) In the case of all applications filed under the provisions of this section 27.207, the contracting officer, upon receiving the application serial number, the filing date, and the information furnished by the contractor under paragraph (d) of the clause at 52.227–10, Filing of Patent Applications—Classified Subject Matter, shall promptly submit that information to personnel having cognizance of patent matters in order that the steps necessary to ensure the security of the application may be taken. (d) A request for the approval referred to in paragraph (c) of the clause at 52.227–10, Filing of Patent Applications—Classified Subject Matter, must be considered and acted upon promptly by the contracting officer in order to avoid the loss of valuable patent rights of the Government or the contractor. [49 FR 12974, Mar. 30, 1984, as amended at 61 FR 31617, June 20, 1996] The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.227–10, Filing of Patent Applications—Classified Subject Matter, in all classified solicitations and contracts and in all solicitations and contracts where the nature of the work or classified subject matter involved in the work reasonably might be expected to result in a patent application containing classified subject matter. (a) The requirements of this section apply to the use of technology covered by a valid patent when the patent holder is from a country that is a party to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). (b) Article 1709(10) of NAFTA generally requires a user of technology covered by a valid patent to make a reasonable effort to obtain authorization prior to use of the patented technology. However, NAFTA provides that this requirement for authorization may be waived in situations of national emergency or other circumstances of extreme urgency, or public noncommercial use. (c) Section 6 of Executive Order 12889 of December 27, 1993, waives the requirement to obtain advance authorization for— (1) An invention used or manufactured by or for the Federal Government, except that the patent owner must be notified whenever the agency or its contractor, without making a patent search, knows or has demonstrable reasonable grounds to know that an invention described in and covered by a valid U.S. patent is or will be used or manufactured without a license; and (2) The existence of a national emergency or other circumstances of extreme urgency, except that the patent owner must be notified as soon as it is reasonably practicable to do so. (d) Section 6(c) of Executive Order 12889 provides that the notice to the patent owner does not constitute an admission of infringement of a valid privately owned patent. (e) When addressing issues regarding compensation for the use of patented technology, Government personnel should be advised that NAFTA uses the term “adequate remuneration.” Executive Order 12889 equates “remuneration” to “reasonable and entire compensation” as used in 28 U.S.C. 1498, the statute which gives jurisdiction to the U.S. Court of Federal Claims to hear patent and copyright cases involving infringement by the U.S. Government. (f) Depending on agency procedures, either the technical/requiring activity or the contracting officer shall ensure compliance with the notice requirements of NAFTA Article 1709(10). A contract award should not be suspended pending notification to the right holder. (g) When questions arise regarding the notice requirements or other matters relating to this section, the contracting officer should consult with legal counsel. [61 FR 31648, June 20, 1996] (a) Article 31 of Annex 1C, Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights, to GATT (Uruguay Round) addresses situations where the law of a member country allows for use of a patent without authorization from the patent holder, including use by the Government. (b) The contracting officer should consult with legal counsel regarding questions under this section. [61 FR 39212, July 26, 1996] This subpart prescribes policies, procedures, and contract clauses with respect to inventions made in the performance of work under a Government contract or subcontract thereunder if a purpose of the contract or subcontract is the conduct of experimental, developmental, or research work, except to the extent statutory requirements necessitate different agency policies, procedures, and clauses as specified in agency supplemental regulations. As used in this subpart— Invention means any invention or discovery that is or may be patentable or otherwise protectable under title 35 of the U.S. Code or any novel variety of plant that is or may be protectable under the Plant Variety Protection Act (7 U.S.C. 2321, et seq.). Made when used in relation to any invention, means the conception or first actual reduction to practice of such invention. Nonprofit organization means a domestic university or other institution of higher education or an organization of the type described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 (26 U.S.C. 501(c)) and exempt from taxation under section 501(a) of the Internal Revenue Code (26 U.S.C. 501(a)), or any nonprofit scientific or educational organization qualified under a State nonprofit organization statute. Practical application means to manufacture, in the case of a composition or product; to practice, in the case of a process or method; or to operate, in the case of a machine or system; and, in each case, under such conditions as to establish that the invention is being utilized and that its benefits are, to the extent permitted by law or Government regulations, available to the public on reasonable terms. Small business firm means a small business concern as defined at 15 U.S.C. 632 and implementing regulations of the Administrator of the Small Business Administration. (For the purpose of this definition, the size standard contained in 13 CFR 121.3–8 for small business contractors and in 13 CFR 121.3–12 for small business subcontractors will be used. See FAR part 19). Subject invention means any invention of the contractor conceived or first actually reduced to practice in the performance of work under a Government contract; provided, that in the case of a variety of plant, the date of determination defined in section 41(d) of the Plant Variety Protection Act, 7 U.S.C. 2401(d), must also occur during the period of contract performance. [49 FR 12974, Mar. 30, 1984, as amended at 54 FR 25063, June 12, 1989 and 55 FR 25525, June 21, 1990; 66 FR 2130, Jan. 10, 2001] (a) Introduction. The policy of this section is based on Chapter 18 of title 35, U.S.C. (Pub. L. 95–517, Pub. L. 98–620, 37 CFR part 401), the Presidential Memorandum on Government Patent Policy to the Heads of Executive Departments and Agencies dated February 18, 1983, and Executive Order 12591, which provides that, to the extent permitted by law, the head of each Executive Department and agency shall promote the commercialization, in accord with the Presidential Memorandum, of patentable results of federally funded research by granting to all contractors, regardless of size, the title to patents made in whole or in part with Federal funds, in exchange for royalty-free use by or on behalf of the Government. The objectives of this policy are to use the patent system to promote the utilization of inventions arising from federally supported research or development; to encourage maximum participation of industry in federally supported research and development efforts; to ensure that these inventions are used in a manner to promote free competition and enterprise; to promote the commercialization and public availability of the inventions made in the United States by United States industry and labor; to ensure that the Government obtains sufficient rights in federally supported inventions to meet the needs of the Government and protect the public against nonuse or unreasonable use of inventions; and, to minimize the costs of administering policies in this area. (b) Contractor right to elect title. Under the policy set forth in paragraph (a) of this section, each contractor may, after disclosure to the Government as required by the patent rights clause included in the contract, elect to retain title to any invention made in the performance of work under the contract. To the extent an agency's statutory requirements necessitate a different policy, or different procedures and/or contract clauses to effectuate the policy set forth in paragraph (a) of this section, such policy, procedures, and clauses shall be contained in or expressly referred to in that agency's supplement to this subpart. In addition, a contract may provide otherwise (1) when the contractor is not located in the United States or does not have a place of business located in the United States or is subject to the control of a foreign-government (see 27.303(c)), (2) in exceptional circumstances when it is determined by the agency that restriction or elimination of the right to retain title in any subject invention will better promote the policy and objectives of Chapter 18 of title 35, U.S.C. and the Presidential Memorandum, (3) when it is determined by a Government authority which is authorized by statute or Executive order to conduct foreign intelligence or counterintelligence activities that the restriction or elimination of the right to retain title to any subject invention is necessary to protect the security of such activities, or (4) when the contract includes the operation of a Government-owned, contractor-operated facility of the Department of Energy primarily dedicated to the Department's naval nuclear propulsion or weapons related programs and all funding agreement limitations under 35 U.S.C. 202(a)(iv) for agreements with small business firms and nonprofit organizations are limited to inventions occurring under the above two programs. In the case of small business firms and nonprofit organizations, when an agency justifies and exercises the exception at subparagraph (b)(2) of this section on the basis of national security, the contract shall provide the contractor with the right to elect ownership to any invention made under such contract as provided by the clause at 52.227–11, Patent Rights—Retention by the Contractor (Short Form), if the invention is not classified by the agency within 6 months of the date it is reported to the agency, or within the same time period the Department of Energy (DOE) does not, as authorized by regulation, law or Executive order or implementing regulations thereto, prohibit unauthorized dissemination of the invention. Contracts in support of DOE's naval nuclear propulsion program are exempted from this paragraph. When a contract involves a series of separate task orders, an agency may apply the exceptions at subparagraph (b) (2) or (3) of this section to individual task orders, and it may structure the contract so that modified patent rights clauses will apply to the task order even though the clause at 52.227–11 is applicable to the remainder of the work. In those instances when the Government has the right to acquire title at the time of contracting, the contractor may, nevertheless, request greater rights to an identified investion (see 27.304–1(a)). The right of the contractor to retain title shall, in any event, be subject to the provisions of paragraphs (c) through (g) of this section. (c) Government license. The Government shall have at least a nonexclusive, nontransferable, irrevocable, paid-up license to practice, or have practiced for or on behalf of the United States, any subject invention throughout the world; and may, if provided in the contract (see Alernative I of the applicable patent rights clause), have additional rights to sublicense any foreign government or international organization pursuant to existing treaties or agreements identified in the contract, or to otherwise effectuate such treaties or agreements. In the case of long term contracts, the contract may also provide (see Alternate II) such rights with respect to treaties or agreements to be entered into by the Government after the award of the contract. (d) Government right to receive title. (1) The Government has the right to receive title to any invention if the contract so provides pursuant to a determination made in accordance with subparagraph (b) (1), (2), (3), or (4) of this section. In addition, to the extent provided in the patent rights clause, the Government has the right to receive title to an invention— (i) If the contractor has not disclosed the invention within the time specified in the clause; (ii) In any country where the contractor does not elect to retain rights or fails to elect to retain rights to the invention within the time specified in the clause; (iii) In any country where the contractor has not filed a patent application within the time specified in the clause; (iv) In any country where the contractor decides not to continue prosecution of a patent application, pay maintenance fees, or defend in a reexamination or opposition proceeding on the patent; and/or (v) In any country where the contractor no longer desires to retain title. (2) For the purposes of this paragraph, election or filing in a European Patent Office Region or under the Patent Cooperation Treaty constitutes election or filing in any country covered therein to meet the times specified in the clause, provided that the Government has the right to receive title in those countries not subsequently designated by the contractor. (e) Utilization reports. The Government shall have the right to require periodic reporting on the utilization or efforts at obtaining utilization that are being made by the contractor or its licensees or assignees. Such reporting by small business firms and nonprofit organizations may be required in accordance with instructions as may be issued by the Department of Commerce. Agencies should protect the confidentiality or utilization reports which are marked with restrictions to the extent permitted by 35 U.S.C. 205 or other applicable laws and 37 CFR part 401. Agencies shall not disclose such utilization reports to persons outside the Government without permission of the contractor. Contractors will continue to provide confidential markings to help prevent inadvertent release outside the agency. (f) March-in rights. (1) With respect to any subject invention in which a contractor has acquired title, contracts provide that the agency shall have the right (unless provided otherwise in accordance with 27.304–1(f)) to require the contractor, an assignee, or exclusive licensee of a subject invention to grant a nonexclusive, partially exclusive, or exclusive license in any field of use to a responsible applicant or applicants, upon terms that are reasonable under the circumstances, and if the contractor, assignee, or exclusive licensee refuses such request, to grant such a license itself, if the agency determines that such action is necessary— (i) Because the contractor or assignee has not taken, or is not expected to take within a reasonable time, effective steps to achieve practical application of the subject invention in such field of use; (ii) To alleviate health or safety needs which are not reasonably satisfied by the contractor, assignee, or their licensees; (iii) To meet requirements for public use specified by Federal regulations and such requirements are not reasonably satisfied by the contractor, assignee, or licensees; or (iv) Because the agreement required by paragraph (g) below has neither been obtained nor waived, or because a licensee of the exclusive right to use or sell any subject invention in the United States is in breach of its agreement obtained pursuant to paragraph (g) below. (2) This right of the agency shall be exercised only after the contractor has been provided a reasonable time to present facts and show cause why the proposed agency action should not be taken, and afforded an opportunity to take appropriate action if the contractor wishes to dispute or appeal the proposed action, in accordance with 27.304–1(g). (g) Preference for United States industry. Unless provided otherwise in accordance with 27.304–1(f), contracts provide that no contractor which receives title to any subject invention and no assignee of any such contractor shall grant to any person the exclusive right to use or sell any subject invention in the United States unless such person agrees that any products embodying the subject invention or produced through the use of the subject invention will be manufactured substantially in the United States. However, in individual cases, the requirement for such an agreement may be waived by the agency upon a showing by the contractor or assignee that reasonable but unsuccessful efforts have been made to grant licenses on similar terms to potential licensees that would be likely to manufacture substantially in the United States or that under the circumstances domestic manufacture is not commercially feasible. (h) Small business preference. (1) Nonprofit organization contractors are expected to use efforts that are reasonable under the circumstances to attract small business licensees. They are also expected to give small business firms that meet the standard outlined in the clause at 52.227–11, Patent Rights—Retention by the Contractor (Short Form), a preference over other applicants for licenses. What constitutes reasonable efforts to attract small business licensees will vary with the circumstances and the nature, duration, and expense of efforts needed to bring the invention to the market. Subparagraph (k)(4) of the clause is not intended, for example, to prevent nonprofit organizations from providing larger firms with a right of first refusal or other options in inventions that relate to research being supported under long-term or other arrangements with larger companies. Under such circumstances, it would not be reasonable to seek and to give a preference to small business licensees. (2) Small business firms that believe a nonprofit organzations is not meeting its obligations under the clause may report their concerns to the Secretary of Commerce. To the extent deemed appropriate, the Secretary of Commerce will undertake informal investigation of the concern, and, if appropriate, enter into discussions or negotiations with the nonprofit organization to the end of improving its efforts in meeting its obligations under the clause. However, in no event will the Secretary of Commerce intervene in ongoing negotiations or contractor decisions concerning the licensing of a specific subject invention. All the above investigations, discussions, and negotiations of the Secretary of Commerce will be in coordinations with other interested agencies, including the Small Business Administration; and in the case of a contract for the operation of a Government-owned, contractor-operated research or production facility, the Secretary of Commerce will coordinate with the agency responsible for the facility prior to any discussions or negotiations with the contractor. (i) Minimum rights to contractor. (1) When the Government acquires title to a subject invention, the contractor is normally granted a revocable, nonexclusive, royalty-free license to that invention throughout the world. The contractor's license extends to its domestic subsidiaries and affiliates, if any, within the corporate structure of which the contractor is a part and includes the right to grant sublicenses of the same scope to the extent the contractor was legally obligated to do so at the time the contract was awarded. The license is transferable only with the approval of the contracting officer except when transferred to the successor of that part of the contractor's business to which the invention pertains. (2) The contractor's domestic license may be revoked or modified to the extent necessary to achieve expeditious practical application of the subject invention pursuant to an application for an exclusive license submitted in accordance with the applicable provisions in the Federal Property Management Regulations and agency licensing regulations. This license will not be revoked in that field of use or the geographical areas in which the contractor has achieved practical application and continues to make the benefits of the invention reasonably accessible to the public. The license in any foreign country may be revoked or modified to the extent the contractor, its licensees, or its domestic subsidiaries or affiliates have failed to achieve practical application in that country. See the procedures at 27.304–1(e). (j) Confidentiality of inventions. The publication of information disclosing an invention by any party before the filing of a patent application may create a bar to a valid patent. Accordingly, 35 U.S.C. 205 and 37 CFR part 40 provide that Federal agencies are authorized to withhold from disclosure to the public information disclosing any invention in which the Federal Government owns or may own a right, title, or interest (including a nonexclusive license) for a reasonable time in order for a patent application to be filed. Furthermore, Federal agencies shall not be required to release copies of any document which is part of an application for patent filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office or with any foreign patent office. The Presidential Memorandum on Government Patent Policy specifies that agencies should protect the confidentiality of invention disclosures and patent applications required in performance or in consequence of awards to the extent permitted by 35 U.S.C. 205 or other applicable laws. [49 FR 12974, Mar. 30, 1984, as amended at 50 FR 1743, Jan. 11, 1985; 50 FR 52429, Dec. 23, 1985; 51 FR 2665, Jan. 17, 1986; 54 FR 25063, June 12, 1989 and 55 FR 25525, June 21, 1990; 62 FR 40237, July 25, 1997] In contracts (and solicitations therefor) for experimental, developmental, or research work (but see 27.304–3 regarding contracts for construction work or architect-engineer services), a patent rights clause shall be inserted as follows: (a)(1) The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.227–11, Patent Rights—Retention by the Contractor (Short Form), if all the following conditions apply: (i) The contractor is a small business concern or nonprofit organization as defined in 27.301 or, except for contracts of the Department of Defense (DOD), the Department of Energy (DOE), or the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), any other type of contractor. (ii) No alternative patent rights clause is used in accordance with paragraph (c) or (d) of this section or 27.304–2. (2) To the extent the information is not required elsewhere in the contract, and unless otherwise specified by agency supplemental regulations, the contracting officer may modify 52.227–11(f) to require the contractor to do one or more of the following: (i) Provide periodic (but not more frequently than annually) listings of all subject inventions required to be disclosed during the period covered by the report. (ii) Provide a report prior to the closeout of the contract listing all subject inventions or stating that there were none. (iii) Provide, upon request, the filing date, serial number and title, a copy of the patent application, and patent number and issue date for any subject invention in any country in which the contractor has applied for patents. (iv) Furnish the Government an irrevocable power to inspect and make copies of the patent application file when a Federal Government employee is a coinventor. (3) If the acquisition of patent rights for the benefit of a foreign government is required under a treaty or executive agreement, or if the agency head or a designee determines at the time of contracting that it would be in the national interest to acquire the right to sublicense foreign governments or international organizations pursuant to any existing or future treaty or agreement, the contracting officer shall use the clause at 52.227–11, with its Alternate I. If other rights are necessary to effectuate the treaty or agreement, Alternate I may be appropriately modified. In long term contracts, Alternate II shall be added if necessary to effectuate treaties or agreements to be entered into. (4) If the contracting officer includes the clause at 52.227–11, Patent Rights—Retention by the Contractor (Short Form), in a contract with a nonprofit organization for the operation of a Government-owned facility, the contracting officer will include Alternate III in lieu of subparagraph (k)(3) of the clause. (5) If the contract is for the operation of a Government-owned facility, the contracting officer may include Alternate IV with the clause at 52.227–11. (b)(1) The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.227–12, Patent Rights—Retention by the Contractor (Long Form), if all the following conditions apply: (i) The contractor is other than a small business firm or nonprofit organization. (ii) No alternative clause is used in accordance with paragraph (c) or (d) of this section or 237.304–2. (iii) The contracting agency is one of those excepted under subdivision (a)(1)(i) of this section. (2) If the acquisition of patent rights for the benefit of a foreign government is required under a treaty or executive agreement or if the agency head or a designee determines at the time of contracting that it would be in the national interest to acquire the right to sublicense foreign governments or international organizations pursuant to any existing or future treaty or agreement, the contracting officer shall use the clause at 52.227–12, with its Alternate I. If other rights are necessary to effectuate the treaty or agreement, Alternate I may be appropriately modified. In long term contracts, Alternate II shall be added if necessary to effectuate treaties or agreements to be entered into. (c)(1) The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.227–13, Patent Rights—Acquisition by the Government, if any of the following conditions apply: (i) No alternative clause is used in accordance with subparagraphs (c) (2) and (4) or paragraph (d) of this section or 27.304–2. (ii) The work is to be performed outside the United States, its possessions, and Puerto Rico by contractors that are not small business firms, nonprofit organizations as defined in 27.301, or domestic firms. For purposes of this subparagraph, the contracting officer may presume that a contractor is not a domestic firm unless it is known that the firm is not foreign owned, controlled, or influenced. (See 27.304–4(a) regarding subcontracts with U.S. firms.) (2) Pursuant to their statutory requirements, DOE and NASA may specify in their supplemental regulations use of a modified version of the clause at 52.227–13 in contracts with other than small business concerns or nonprofit organizations. (3) If the acquisition of patent rights for the benefit of a foreign government is required under a treaty or executive agreement or if the agency head or a designee determines at the time of contracting that it would be in the national interest to acquire the right to sublicense foreign governments or international organizations pursuant to any existing or future treaty or agreement, the contracting officer shall use the clause with its Alternate I. If other rights are necessary to effectuate the treaty or agreement, Alternate I may be appropriately modified. In long term contracts, Alternate II shall be added if necessary to effectuate treaties or agreements to be entered into. (4) Section 401 of title 37 of the Code of Federal Regulations provides that in contracts with small business firms and nonprofit organizations, when an agency exercises the exceptions at 27.302(b) (2) or (3) it shall use the clause at 52.227–11, with such modifications as are necessary to address the exceptional circumstances or concerns which led to the use of the exception. The greater rights determinations provision of 52.227–13(b)(2) shall be included in the modified clause. (d)(1) If one of the following applies, the contracting officer may insert the clause prescribed in paragraph (a) or (b) of this section as otherwise applicable, agency supplemental regulations may provide another clause and specify its use, or the contracting officer shall insert the clause prescribed in paragraph (c) of this section: (i) The contractor is not located in the United States or does not have a place of business located in the United States or is subject to the control of a foreign government. (ii) There are exceptional circumstances and the agency head determines that restriction or elimination of the right to retain title to any subject invention will better promote the policy and objectives of chapter 18 of title 35 of the United States Code. (iii) It is determined by a Government authority which is authorized by statute or executive order to conduct foreign intelligence or counterintelligence activities that restriction or elimination of the right to retain any subject invention is necessary to protect the security of such activities. (iv) The contract includes the operation of a Government-owned, contractor-operated facility of the Department of Energy primarily dedicated to that Department's naval nuclear propulsion or weapons related programs. (2) Before using any of the exceptions under subparagraph (d)(1) of this section in a contract with a small business firm or a nonprofit organization and before using the exception of subdivision (d)(1)(ii) of this section for any contractor, the agency shall prepare a written determination, including a statement of facts supporting the determination, that the conditions identified in the exception exist. A separate statement of facts shall be prepared for each exceptional circumstances determination, except that in appropriate cases a single determination may apply to both a contract and any subcontract issued under it, or to any contract to which an exception is applicable. In cases when subdivision (d)(1)(ii) of this section is used, the determination shall also include an analysis justifying the determination. This analysis should address, with specificity, how the alternate provisions will better achieve the objectives set forth in 35 U.S.C. 200. For contracts with small business firms and nonprofit organizations, a copy of each determination, statement of facts, and, if applicable, analysis shall be promptly provided to the contractor or offeror along with a notification of its appeal rights under 35 U.S.C. 202(b)(4) in accordance with 27.304–1(a). In the case of small business and nonprofit contractors, except for determination under subdivision (d)(1)(iii) of this section, the agency shall, within 30 days after award of a contract, also provide copies of each determination, statement of fact, and analysis to the Secretary of Commerce. These shall be sent within 30 days after the award of the contract to which they pertain. In the case of contracts with small business concerns, copies will also be sent to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration. (e) For those agencies excepted under paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section, only small business firms or non-profit organizations qulaify for the clause at 52.227–11. If one of these agencies has reason to question the status of the prospective contractor, the agency may file a protest in accordance with 13 CFR 121.3–5 if small business firm status is questioned, or require the prospective contractor to furnish evidence of its status as a nonprofit organization. (f) Alternates I and II to the clauses at 52.227–11, 52.227–12, and 52–227–13, as applicable, may be modified to make clear that the rights granted to the foreign government or international organization may be for additional rights beyond a license or sublicense if so required by the applicable treaty or international agreement. For example, in some cases exclusive licenses or even assignment of title in the foreign country involved might be required. In addition, an Alternate may be modified to provide for direct licensing by the contractor of the foreign government or international organization. [54 FR 25065, June 12, 1989 and 55 FR 25525, June 21, 1990; 62 FR 236, Jan. 2, 1997] (a) Contractor appeals of exceptions. (1) In accordance with 35 U.S.C. 202(b)(4), a small business firm or nonprofit organization contractor has the right to an administrative review of a determination to use one of the exceptions at 27.303(d)(1)(i)–(iv) if the contractor believes that a determination is either (i) contrary to the policies and objectives of this subsection or (ii) constitutes an abuse of discretion by the agency. Subparagraphs (a) (2) thru (7) of this subsection specify the procedures to be followed by contractors and agencies in such cases. The assertion of such a claim by the contractor shall not be used as a basis for withholding or delaying the award of a contract or for suspending performance under an award. However, pending final resolution of the claim, the contract may be issued with the patent rights provision proposed by the agency; but should the final decision be in favor of the contractor, the contract will be amended accordingly and the amendment made retroactive to the effective date of the contract. (2) A contractor may appeal a determination by providing written notice to the agency within 30 working days from the time it receives a copy of the agency's determination, or within such longer time as an agency may specify in its regulations. The contractor's notice should specifically identify the basis for the appeal. (3) The appeal shall be decided by the head of the agency or designee who is at a level above the person who made the determination. If the notice raises a genuine dispute over the material facts, the head of the agency or designee shall undertake or refer the matter for fact-finding. (4) Fact-finding shall be conducted in accordance with procedures established by the agency. Such procedures shall be as informal as practicable and be consistent with principles of fundamental fairness. The procedures should afford the contractor the opportunity to appear with counsel, submit documentary evidence, present witnesses, and confront such persons as the agency may rely upon. A transcribed record shall be made and shall be available at cost to the contractor upon request. The requirement for a transcribed record may be waived by mutual agreement of the contractor and the agency. (5) The official conducting the fact-finding shall prepare or adopt written findings of fact and transmit them to the head of the agency or designee promptly after the conclusion of the fact-finding proceeding along with a recommended decision. A copy of the findings of fact and recommended decision shall be sent to the contractor by registered or certified mail. (6) Fact-finding should be completed within 45 working days from the date the agency receives the contractor's written notice. (7) When fact-finding has been conducted, the head of the agency or designee shall base his or her decision on the facts found, together with any argument submitted by the contractor, agency officials, or any other information in the administrative record. In cases referred for fact-finding, the agency head or designee may reject only those facts that have been found to be clearly erroneous, but must explicitly state the rejection and indicate the basis for the contrary finding. The agency head or designee may hear oral arguments after fact-finding provided that the contractor or contractor's attorney or representative is present and given an opportunity to make arguments and rebuttal. The decision of the agency head or designee shall be in writing and if it is unfavorable to the contractor, include an explanation of the basis of the decision. The decision of the agency or designee shall be made within 30 working days after fact-finding or, if there was no fact-finding, within 45 working days from the date the agency received the contractor's written notice. In accordance with 35 U.S.C. 203, a small business firm or a nonprofit organization contractor adversely affected by a determination under this section may, at any time within 60 days after the determination is issued, file a petition in the United States Claims Court, which shall have jurisdiction to determine the appeal on the record and to affirm, reverse, remand, or modify, as appropriate, the determination of the Federal agency. (b) Greater rights determination. Whenever the contract contains the clause at 52.227–13, Patent Rights—Acquisition by the Government, the contractor (or an employee-inventor of the contractor after consultation with the contractor) may request greater rights to an identified invention within the period specified in such clause. Requests for greater rights may be granted if the agency head or designee determines that the interests of the United States and the general public will be better served thereby. In making such determinations, the agency head or designee shall consider at least the following objectives: (1) Promoting the utilization of inventions arising from federally-supported research and development. (2) Ensuring that inventions are used in a manner to promote full and open competition and free enterprise. (3) Promoting public availability of inventions made in the United States by United States industry and labor. (4) Ensuring that the Government obtains sufficient rights in federally supported inventions to meet the needs of the Government and protect the public against nonuse or unreasonable use of inventions. (c) Retention of rights by inventor. If the contractor does not elect to retain title to a subject invention, the agency may consider and, after consultation with the contractor, grant requests for retention or rights by the inventor. Retention of rights by the inventor will be subject to the conditions in paragraph (d) (except subparagraphs (d)(1)), (f)(4), and paragraphs (h), (i), and (j) of the applicable Patent Rights—Retention by the Contractor clause. (d) Government assignment to contractor of rights in Government employees' inventions. When a Government employee is a coinventor of an invention made under a contract with a small business firm or nonprofit organization, the agency employing the coinventor may transfer or reassign whatever right it may acquire in the subject invention from its employee to the contractor, subject at least to the conditions of 35 U.S.C. 202–204. (e) Additional requirements. (1) If it is desired to have the right to require any of the following, when using the clause at 52.227–11, Patent Rights—Retention by the Contractor (Short Form), the contract shall be modified to require the contractor to do one or more of the following: (i) Provide periodic (but not more frequently than annually) listings of all subject inventions required to be disclosed during the period covered by the report. (ii) Provide a report prior to the closeout of the contract listing all subject inventions or stating that there were none. (iii) Provide, upon request, the filing date, serial number, and title; a copy of the patent application; and patent number and issue date for any subject invention in any country in which the contractor has applied for patents. (iv) Furnish the Government an irrevocable power to inspect and make copies of the patent application file when a Federal Government employee is a coinventor. (2) To the extent provided by such modification (and automatically under the terms of the clauses at 52.227–12, Patent Rights—Retention by the Contractor (Long Form), and 52.227–13, Patent Rights—Acquisition by the Government), the contracting officer may require the contractor to— (i) Furnish a copy of each subcontract containing a patent rights clause (but if a copy of a subcontract is furnished under another clause, a duplicate shall not be requested under the patent rights clause); (ii) Submit interim and final invention reports listing subject inventions and notifying the contracting officer of all subcontracts awarded for experimental, developmental, or research work; (iii) Submit information regarding the filing date, serial number and title, and, upon request, a copy of the patent application, and patent number and issue date for any subject invention in any country for which the contractor has retained title; and (iv) Submit periodic reports on the utilization of a subject invention or on efforts at obtaining utilization that are being made by the contractor or its licensees or assignees. (3) The contractor is required to deliver to the contracting officer an instrument confirmatory of all rights to which the Government is entitled and to furnish the Government an irrevocable power to inspect and make copies of the patent application file. Such delivery should normally be made within 6 months after filing each patent application, or within 6 months after submitting the invention disclosure if the application has been previously filed. (f) Revocation or modification of contractor's minimum rights. Before revocation or modification of the contractor's license in accordance with 27.302(i)(2), the contracting officer will furnish the contractor a written notice of intention to revoke or modify the license, and the contractor will be allowed 30 days (or such other time as may be authorized by the contracting officer for good cause shown by the contractor) after the notice to show cause why the license should not be revoked or modified. The contractor has the right to appeal, in accordance with applicable regulations in 37 CFR part 404 and agency licensing regulations, any decisions concerning the revocation or modification. (g) Exercise of march-in rights. The following procedures shall govern the exercise of the march-in rights set forth in 35 U.S.C. 203, paragraph (j) of the Patent Rights—Retention by the Contractor clauses, and subdivision (c)(1)(ii) of the Patent Rights—Acquisition by the Government clause: (1) When the agency receives information that it believes might warrant the exercise of march-in rights, before initiating any march-in proceeding in accordance with the procedures of subparagraph (g)(2) of this section, it shall notify the contractor in writing of the information and request informal written or oral comments from the contractor. In the absence of any comments from the contractor within 30 days the agency may, at its discretion, initiate the procedures below. If a comment is received, whether or not within 30 days, then the agency shall, within 60 days after it receives the comment, either initiate the procedures below or notify the contractor, in writing, that it will not pursue march-in rights based on the information about which the contractor was notified. (2) A march-in proceeding shall be initiated by the issuance of a written notice by the agency head or a designee to the contractor and its assignee or exclusive licensee, as applicable and if known to the agency, stating that the Government has determined to exercise march-in rights. The notice shall state the reasons for the proposed march-in, in terms sufficient to put the contractor on notice of the facts upon which the action is based, and shall specify the field or fields of use in which the Government is considering requiring licensing. The notice shall advise the contractor, assignee, or exclusive licensee of its rights as set forth in this section and in any supplemental agency regulations or procedures. The determination to exercise march-in rights shall be made by the head of the agency or designee. (3) Within 30 days after the receipt of the written notice of march-in, the contractor, its assignee or exclusive licensee, may submit in person, in writing, or through a representative information or argument in opposition to the proposed march-in, including any additional specific information which raises a genuine dispute over the material facts upon which the march-in is based. If the information presented raises a genuine dispute over the material facts, the head of the agency or designee shall undertake or refer the matter to another official for fact-finding. (4) Fact-finding shall be conducted in accordance with the procedures established by the agency. Such procedures shall be as informal as practicable and be consistent with principles of fundamental fairness. The procedures should afford the contractor the opportunity to appear with counsel, submit documentary evidence, present witnesses, and confront such persons as the agency may present. A transcribed record shall be made and shall be available at cost to the contractor upon request. The requirement for a transcribed record may be waived by mutual agreement of the contractor and the agency. Any portion of the march-in proceeding, including a fact-finding hearing that involves testimony or evidence relating to the utilization or efforts at obtaining utilization that are being made by the contractor, its assignee, or licensees shall be closed to the public, including potential licensees. In accordance with 35 U.S.C. 202(c)(5), agencies shall not disclose any such information obtained during a march-in proceeding to persons outside the Government except when such release is authorized by the contractor, its assignee, or licensee. (5) The official conducting the fact-finding shall prepare or adopt written findings of fact and transmit them to the head of the agency or designee promptly after the conclusion of the factfinding proceeding along with a recommended determination. A copy of the findings of fact shall be sent to the contractor, its assignee, or exclusive licensee by registered or certified mail. The contractor, its assignee or exclusive licensee, and agency representatives will be given 30 days to submit written arguments to the head of the agency or designee; and, upon request by the contractor, oral arguments will be held before the agency head or designee that will make the final determination. (6) In case in which fact-finding has been conducted, the head of the agency or designee shall base his or her determination on the facts found, together with any other information and written or oral arguments submitted by the contractor, its assignee or exclusive licensee and agency representatives, and any other information in the administrative record. The consistency of the exercise of march-in rights with the policy and objectives of 35 U.S.C. 200 shall also be considered. In cases referred for fact-finding, the head of the agency or designee may reject only those facts that have been found to be clearly erroneous, but must explicitly state the rejection and indicate the basis for the contrary finding. Written notice of the determination whether march-in rights will be exercised shall be made by the head of the agency or designee and sent to the contractor, its assignee, or exclusive licensee, by certified or registered mail within 90 days after the completion of fact-finding or 90 days after oral arguments, whichever is later, or the proceedings will be deemed to have been terminated and thereafter no march-in based on the facts and reasons upon which the proceeding was initiated may be exercised. (7) An agency may, at any time, terminate a march-in proceeding if it is satisfied that it does not wish to exercise march-in rights. (8) These procedures shall also apply to the exercise of march-in rights against inventors receiving title to subject inventions under 35 U.S.C. 202(d) and, for that purpose, the term contractor, as used herein, shall be deemed to include the inventory and the term exclusive licensee shall be deemed to include partially exclusive licensee. (9) An agency determination unfavorable to the contractor, its assignee, or exclusive licensee shall be held in abeyance pending the exhaustion of appeals or petitions filed under 35 U.S.C. 203(2). (h) Licenses and assignments under contracts with nonprofit organizations. If the contractor is a nonprofit organization, the clause at 52.227–11 provides that certain contractor actions require agency approval, as specified below. Agencies shall provide procedures for obtaining such approval. Rights to a subject invention in the United States may not be assigned without the approval of the contracting agency, except where such assignment is made to an organization which has as one of its primary functions the management of inventions (provided that such assignee will be subject to the same provisions as the contractor). [54 FR 25066, June 12, 1989 and 55 FR 25525, June 21, 1990] The following procedures apply unless agency agreements provide otherwise: (a) When a Government agency requests another Government agency to award a contract on its behalf, the request should explain any special circumstances surrounding the contract and specify and furnish the patent rights clause to be used. Normally, the clause will be in accordance with the policies and procedures of this subpart. If, however, the request states that a clause of the requesting agency is required (e.g., because of statutory requirements, a deviation, or exceptional circumstances) that clause shall be used rather than those of this subpart. (1) If the request states that an agency clause is required and the work to be performed under the contract is not severable and is funded wholly or in part by the agency, then that agency clause and no other patent rights clause shall be included in the contract. (2) If the request states that an agency clause is required, and the work to be performed under the contract is severable and is only in part for the requesting agency, then the work which is on behalf of the requesting agency shall be identified in the contract, and the agency clause shall be made applicable to that portion. In such situations, the remaining portion of the work (for the agency awarding the contract) shall likewise be identified and the appropriate patent rights clause (if required) shall be made applicable to that remaining portion. (3) If the request states that an agency clause is not required in any resulting contract, then the appropriate patent rights clause shall be used, if a patent rights clause is required. (b) Where use of the specified clause, or any modification, waiver, or omission of the Government's rights under any provisions therein, requires a written determination, the reporting of such determination, or a deviation, if any such acts are required in accordance with 27.303(d)(2), it shall be the responsibility of the requesting agency to make such determination, submit the required reports, and obtain such deviations, in consultation with the contracting agency, unless otherwise agreed between the contracting and requesting agencies. However, a deviation to a specified clause of the requesting agency shall not be made without prior approval of that agency. (c) The requesting agency may require, and provide instructions regarding, the forwarding or handling of any invention disclosures or other reporting requirements of the specified clauses. Normally the requesting agency shall be responsible for the handling of any disclosed inventions, including the filing of patent applications where the Government receives title, and the custody, control, and licensing thereof, unless provided otherwise in the instructions or other agreements with the contracting agency. [49 FR 12974, Mar. 30, 1984, as amended at 54 FR 25068, June 12, 1989 and 55 FR 25525, June 21, 1990] (a) If a solicitation or contract for construction work or architect-engineer services has as a purpose the performance of experimental, developmental, or research work or test and evaluation studies involving such work and calls for, or can be expected to involve, the design of a Government facility or of novel structures, machines, products, materials, processes, or equipment (including construction equipment), it shall include a patent rights clause selected in accordance with the policies and procedures of this subpart 27.3. (b) A solicitation or contract for construction work or architect-engineer services that calls for or can be expected to involve only standard types of construction to be built by previously developed equipment, methods, and processes shall not include a patent rights clause. The term standard types of construction means construction in which the distinctive features, if any, in all likelihood will amount to no more than— (1) Variations in size, shape, or capacity of otherwise structurally orthodox and conventionally acting structures or structural groupings; or (2) Purely artistic or esthetic (as distinguished from functionally significant) architectural configurations and designs of both structural and nonstructural members or groupings, which may or may not be sufficiently novel or meritorious to qualify for design protection under the design patent or copyright laws. (a) The policies and procedures covered by this subpart apply to all contracts at any tier. Hence, a contractor awarding a subcontract and a subcontractor awarding a lower-tier subcontract that has as a purpose the conduct of experimental, developmental, or research work is required to determine the appropriate patent rights clause to be included that is consistent with these policies and procedures. Generally, the clause at either 52.227–11, 52.227–12, or 52.227–13 is to be used and will be so specified in the patent rights clause contained in the higher-tier contract, but the contracting officer may direct the use of a particular patent rights clause in any lower-tier contract in accordance with the policies and procedures of this subpart. For instance, when the clause at 52.227–13 is in the prime contract because the work is to be performed overseas, any subcontract with a nonprofit organization would contain the clause at 52.227–11. (b) Whenever a prime contractor or a subcontractor considers the inclusion of a particular clause in a subcontract to be inappropriate or a subcontractor refuses to accept the proffered clause, the matter shall be resolved by the agency contracting officer in consultation with counsel. (c) It is Government policy that contractors shall not use their ability to award subcontracts as economic leverage to acquire rights for themselves in inventions resulting from subcontracts. (a) The agency official initially authorized to take any of the following actions shall provide the contractor with a written statement of the basis for the action at the time the action is taken, including any relevant facts that were relied upon in taking the action: (1) A refusal to grant an extension to the invention disclosure period under subparagraph (c)(4) of the clauses at 52.227–11 and 52.227–12. (2) A request for a conveyance of title to the Government under 27.302(d)(1)(i) through (v). (3) A refusal to grant a waiver under 27.302(g), Preference for U.S. Industry. (4) A refusal to approve an assignment under 27.304–1(h)(1). (5) A refusal to approve an extension of the exclusive license period under 27.304–1(h)(2). (b) Each agency shall establish and publish procedures under which any of the agency actions listed in paragraph (a) above may be appealed to the head of the agency or designee. Review at this level shall consider both the factual and legal basis for the action and its consistency with the policy and objectives of 35 U.S.C. 200–206 and this subpart. (c) Appeals procedures established under paragraph (b) of this subsection shall include administrative due process procedures and standards for fact-finding at least comparable to those set forth in 37 CFR part 401.6(e)–(g) whenever there is a dispute as to the factual basis for an agency request for a conveyance of title under 27.302(d)(1) (i) through (v) including any dispute as to whether or not an invention is a subject invention. (d) To the extent that any of the actions described in paragraph (a) above are subject to appeal under the Contract Disputes Act, the procedures under that Act will satisfy the requirements of paragraphs (b) and (c) above. [49 FR 12974, Mar. 30, 1984, as amended at 54 FR 25068, June 12, 1989 and 55 FR 25525, June 21, 1990] (a) It is important that the Government and the contractor know and exercise their rights in inventions conceived or first actually reduced to practice in the course of or under Government contracts in order to ensure their expeditious availability to the public and to enable the Government, the contractor, and the public to avoid unnecessary payment of royalties and to defend themselves against claims and suits for patent infringement. To attain these ends, contracts having a patent rights clause should be so administered that— (1) Inventions are identified, disclosed, and reported as required by the contract, and elections are made; (2) The rights of the Government in such inventions are established; (3) Where patent protection is appropriate, patent applications are timely filed and prosecuted by contractors or by the Government; (4) The rights of the Government in filed patent applications are documented by formal instruments such as licenses or assignments; and (5) Expeditious commercial utilization of such inventions is achieved. (b) If a subject invention is made under funding agreements of more than one agency, at the request of the contractor or on their own initiative, the agencies shall designate one agency as responsible for administration of the rights of the Government in the invention. (a) Contractor procedures. If required by the applicable clause, the contractor shall establish and maintain effective procedures to ensure its patent rights obligations are met and that subject inventions are timely identified and disclosed, and when appropriate, patent applications are filed. (b) Contractor reports. Contractors shall submit all reports required by the patent rights clause to the contracting officer or other representative designated for such purpose in the contract. Agencies may, in their implementing instructions, provide specific forms for use on an optional basis for such reporting. (a) Agencies shall maintain appropriate follow-up procedures to protect the Government's interest and to check that subject inventions are identified and disclosed, and when appropriate, patent applications are filed, and that the Government's rights therein are established and protected. Follow-up activities for contracts that include a clause referenced in 27.304–2 shall be coordinated with the appropriate agency. (b) The contracting officer administering the contract (or other representative specifically designated in the contract for such purpose) is responsible for receiving invention disclosures, reports, confirmatory instruments, notices, requests, and other documents and information submitted by the contractor pursuant to a patent rights clause. If the contractor fails to furnish documents or information as called for by the clause within the time required, the contracting officer shall promptly request the contractor to supply the required documents or information and, if the failure persists, shall take appropriate action to secure compliance. Invention disclosures, reports, confirmatory instruments, notices, requests, and other documents and information relating to patent rights clauses shall be promptly furnished by the contracting officer administering the contract (or other designee) to the procuring agency or contracting activity for which the procurement was made for appropriate action. (c) Contracting activities shall establish appropriate procedures to detect and correct failures by the contractor to comply with its obligations under the patent rights clauses, such as failures to disclose and report subject inventions, both during and after contract performance. Ordinarily a contractor should have written instructions for its employees covering compliance with these contract obligations. Government effort to review and correct contractor compliance with its patent rights obligations should be directed primarily towards contracts that, because of the nature of the research, development, or experimental work or the large dollar amount spent on such work, are more likely to result in subject inventions significant in number or quality, and towards contracts when there is reason to believe the contractors may not be complying with their contractual obligations. Other contracts may be reviewed using a spot-check method, as feasible. Appropriate follow-up procedures and activities may include the investigation or review of selected contracts or contractors by those qualified in patent and technical matters to detect failures to comply with contract obligations. (d) Follow-up activities should include, where appropriate, use of Government patent personnel— (1) To interview agency technical personnel to identify novel developments made in contracts; (2) To review technical reports submitted by contractors with cognizant agency technical personnel; (3) To check the Official Gazette of the United States Patent and Trademark Office and other sources for patents issued to the contractor in fields related to its Government contracts; and (4) If additional information is required, to have cognizant Government personnel interview contractor personnel regarding work under the contract involved, observe the work on site, and inspect laboratory notebooks and other records of the contractor related to work under the contract. (e) If it is determined that a contractor or subcontractor does not have a clear understanding of the rights and obligations of the parties under a patent rights clause, or that its procedures for complying with the clause are deficient, a post-award orientation conference or letter should ordinarily be used to explain these rights and obligations (see subpart 42.5). When a contractor fails to establish, maintain, or follow effective procedures for identifying, disclosing, and, when appropriate, filing patent applications on inventions (if such procedures are required by the patent rights clause), or after appropriate notice fails to correct any deficiency, the contracting officer may require the contractor to make available for examination books, records, and documents relating to the contractor's inventions in the same field of technology as the contract effort to enable a determination of whether there are such inventions and may invoke the withholding of payments provision (if any) of the clause. The withholding of payments provision (if any) of the patent rights clause or of any other contract clause may also be invoked if the contractor fails to disclose a subject invention. Significant or repeated failures by a contractor to comply with the patent rights obligation in its contracts shall be documented and made a part of the general file (see 4.801(c)(3)). (a) Agencies are responsible for those procedures necessary to protect the Government's interest in subject inventions. When the Government acquires the entire right, title, and interest in an invention by contract, this is normally accomplished by an assignment either from each inventor to the contractor and from the contractor to the Government, or from the inventor to the Government with the consent of the contractor, so that the chain of title from the inventor to the Government is clearly established. When the Government's rights are limited to a license, there should be a confirmatory instrument to that effect. (b) The form of conveyance of title from the inventor to the contractor must be legally sufficient to convey the rights the contractor is required to convey to the Government. Agencies may, by supplemental instructions, develop suitable assignments, licenses, and other papers evidencing any rights of the Government in patents or patent applications, including such instruments as may be required to be recorded in the Statutory Register or documented in the Government Register maintained by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office pursuant to Executive Order 9424, February 18, 1944. (a) In accordance with the policy at 27.302(i), to protect their mutual interests, contractors and the Government should cooperate in deferring the publication or release of invention disclosures until the filing of the first patent application, and use their best efforts to achieve prompt filing when publication or release may be imminent. The Government will, on its part and to the extent authorized by 35 U.S.C. 205, withhold from disclosure to the public any invention disclosures reported under the patent rights clauses of 52.227–11, 52.227–12, or 52.227–13 for a reasonable time in order for patent applications to be filed. The policy in 27.302(i) regarding protection of confidentiality shall be followed. (b) The Government will also use reasonable efforts to withhold from disclosure to the public for a reasonable time other information disclosing a reported invention included in any data delivered pursuant to contract requirements; provided, that the contractor notifies the agency as to the identity of the data and the invention to which it relates at the time of delivery of the data. Such notification must be to both the contracting officer and any patent representative to which the invention is reported, if other than the contracting officer. (c) As an additional protection for small business firms and nonprofit organizations 37 CFR part 401 prescribes that agencies shall not disclose or release, in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 205, for a period of 18 months from the filing date of the application to third parties pursuant to request under the Freedom of Information Act or otherwise copies of any document which the agency obtained under contract which is part of an application for patent with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office or any foreign patent office filed by the contractor (or its assignees, licensees, or employees) on a subject invention to which the contractor has elected to retain title. This prohibition does not extend to disclosure to other Government agencies or contractors of Government agencies under an obligation to maintain such information in confidence. [49 FR 12974, Mar. 30, 1984, as amended at 54 FR 25069, June 12, 1989 and 55 FR 25525, June 21, 1990] (a) A contract with a small business firm or nonprofit organization will not contain a provision allowing the Government to require the licensing to third parties of inventions owned by the contractor that are not subject inventions unless such provision has been approved by the agency head and written justification has been signed by the agency head. Any such provision will clearly state whether the licensing may be required in connection with the practice of a subject invention, a specifically identified work object, or both. The agency head may not delegate the authority to approve such provisions or to sign justifications required for such provisions. (b) The Government will not require the licensing of third parties under any such provision unless the agency head determines that the use of the invention by others is necessary for the practice of a subject invention or for the use of a work object of the contract and that such action is necessary to achieve the practical application of the subject invention or work object. Any such determination will be on the record after an opportunity for a hearing, and the contractor shall be given notification of the determination by certified or registered mail. The notification shall include a statement that any action commenced for judicial review of such determination must be brought by the contractor within 60 days after the notification. Source: 52 FR 18140, May 13, 1987, unless otherwise noted.
(a) The policy statement in 27.402 applies to all executive agencies. The remainder of the subpart sets forth civilian agency and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) policies, procedures, and instructions with respect to (1) rights in data and copyrights and (2) acquisition of data. However, these policies, procedures, and instructions are not required to be applicable to NASA solicitations until December 31, 1987 (or until such other date as the NASA FAR Supplement is revised to accommodate the policies, procedures, and instructions contained in this subpart). Due to the special mission needs of the Department of Defense (DOD) and as required by 10 U.S.C. 2320, the remainder of the DOD policies, procedures, and instructions with respect to rights in data and copyrights and acquisition of data are contained in the DOD FAR Supplement (DFARS). (b) Civilian agencies other than NASA shall implement section 203 of Public Law 98–577 pertaining to validation of proprietary data restrictions. [52 FR 18140, May 13, 1987, as amended at 54 FR 34755, Aug. 21, 1989] As used in this subpart— Data means recorded information, regardless of form or the media on which it may be recorded. The term includes technical data and computer software. The term does not include information incidental to contract administration, such as financial, administrative, cost or pricing or management information. Form, fit, and function data means data relating to items, components, processes that are sufficient to enable physical and functional interchangeability, as well as data identifying source, size, configuration, mating and attachment characteristics, functional characteristics, and performance requirements; except that for computer software it means data identifying source, functional characteristics, and performance requirements, but specifically excludes the source code, algorithm, process, formulae, and flow charts of the software. Limited rights means the rights of the Government in limited rights data, as set forth in a Limited Rights Notice if included in a data rights clause of the contract. Limited rights data means data, other than computer software, that embody trade secrets or are commercial or financial and confidential or privileged, to the extent that such data pertain to items, components, or processes developed at private expense, including minor modifications thereof. (Agencies may, however, adopt the following alternate definition: Limited rights data means data developed at private expense that embody trade secrets or are commercial or financial and confidential or privileged (see 27.404(c).) Restricted computer software means computer software developed at private expense and that is a trade secret; is commercial or financial and confidential or privileged; or is published copyrighted computer software; including minor modifications of such computer software. Restricted rights means the rights of the Government in restricted computer software as set forth in a Restricted Rights Notice, if included in a data rights clause of the contract, or as otherwise may be included or incorporated in the contract. Technical data means data other than computer software, which are of a scientific or technical nature. Unlimited rights means the rights of the Government to use, disclose, reproduce, prepare derivative works, distribute copies to the public, and perform publicly and display publicly, in any manner and for any purpose, and to have or permit others to do so. [52 FR 18140, May 13, 1987, as amended at 66 FR 2130, Jan. 10, 2001] (a) It is necessary for the departments and agencies, in order to carry out their missions and programs, to acquire or obtain access to many kinds of data produced during or used in the performance of their contracts. Agencies require such data to: obtain competition among suppliers; fulfill certain responsibilities for disseminating and publishing the results of their activities; ensure appropriate utilization of the results of research, development, and demonstration activities including the dissemination of technical information to foster subsequent technological developments; and meet other programmatic and statutory requirements. Further, for defense purposes, such data are also required by agencies to meet specialized acquisition needs and ensure logistics support. (b) At the same time, the Government recognizes that its contractors may have a legitimate proprietary interest (e.g., a property right or other valid economic interest) in data resulting from private investment. Protection of such data from unauthorized use and disclosure is necessary in order to prevent the compromise of such property right or economic interest, avoid jeopardizing the contractor's commercial position, and preclude impairment of the Government's ability to obtain access to or use of such data. The protection of such data by the Government is also necessary to encourage qualified contractors to participate in Government programs and apply innovative concepts to such programs. In light of the above considerations, in applying these policies, agencies shall strike a balance between the Government's need and the contractor's legitimate proprietary interest. All contracts that require data to be produced, furnished, acquired or specifically used in meeting contract performance requirements, must contain terms that delineate the respective rights and obligations of the Government and the contractor regarding the use, duplication, and disclosure of such data, except certain contracts resulting from sealed bidding or similar situations which require only existing data (other than limited rights data and restricted computer software) to be delivered and reproduction rights are not needed for such data. As a general rule the data rights clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, including Alternates I, II, III, IV, and V, where determined to be appropriate as discussed in 27.404, is to be used for that purpose. However, in certain contracts either the particular subject matter of the contract or the intended use of the data may require the use of other prescribed clauses, or may not require the use of any prescribed clause, as discussed in 27.405 and 27.408. Also, in selecting a data rights clause, it is important to note that any such clause does not specify the data (in terms of type, quantity or quality) that is to be delivered, but only the respective rights of the Government and the contractor to use, disclose, or reproduce such data. Accordingly, the contract should also include appropriate terms to specify the data to be delivered. (a) Unlimited rights data. Under the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, the Government acquires unlimited rights in the following data (except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section for copyrighted data): (1) Data first produced in the performance of a contract (except to the extent such data constitute minor modifications to data that are limited rights data or restricted computer software); (2) form, fit, and function data delivered under contract; (3) data (except as may be included with restricted computer software) that constitute manuals or instructional and training material for installation, operation, or routine maintenance and repair of items, components, or processes delivered or furnished for use under a contract; and (4) all other data delivered under the contract other than limited rights data or restricted computer software (see paragraph (b) of this section). If any of the foregoing data are published copyrighted data with the notice of 17 U.S.C. 401 or 402, the Government acquires them under a copyright license, as set forth in paragraph (f) of this section, rather than with unlimited rights. (b) Limited rights data and restricted computer software. The clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, enables the contractor to protect qualifying limited rights data and restricted computer software by withholding such data from delivery to the Government and delivering form, fit, and function data in lieu thereof. However, when an agency has a need to obtain delivery of limited rights data or restricted computer software, the clause may be used with its Alternates II or III, as set forth in paragraphs (d) and (e) of this section. These alternatives enable a contracting officer to selectively request the delivery of such data with limited rights or restricted rights, either by specifying such delivery in the contract or by specific request. (c) Alternate definition of limited rights data. In the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, in order for data to qualify as limited rights data, in addition to being data that either embody a trade secret or are data that are commercial or financial and confidential or privileged, such data must also pertain to items, components, or processes developed at private expense, including minor modifications thereof. However, for contracts that do not require the development, use or delivery of items, components or processes that are intended to be acquired by or for the Government, an agency may adopt for general use or for use in specific circumstances the alternate definition of limited rights data set forth in Alternate I. The alternate definition does not require that such data pertain to items, components, or processes developed at private expense; but rather that such data were developed at private expense and embody a trade secret or are commercial or financial and confidential or privileged. (d) Protection of limited rights data specified for delivery. (1) Contracting officers are authorized to modify the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, by use of Alternate II, which Alternate adds subparagraph (g)(2) to the clause to enable the Government to require delivery of limited rights data rather than allowing the contractor to withhold such data. To obtain such delivery, the contract may identify and specify data to be delivered, or the contracting officer may require, by written request during contract performance, the delivery of data that has been withheld or identified as withholdable under subparagraph (g)(1) of the clause at 52.227–14 Rights in Data—General. In addition, if agreed to during negotiations, the contract may specifically identify data that are not to be delivered under Alternate II or which, if delivered, will be delivered with limited rights. The limited rights obtained by the Government are set forth in the Limited Rights Notice contained in subparagraph (g)(2) (Alternate II). Such limited rights data will not, without permission of the contractor, be used by the Government for purposes of manufacture, and will not be disclosed outside the Government except for certain specific purposes as may be set forth in the Notice, and then only if the Government makes the disclosure subject to prohibition against further use and disclosure by the recipient. The following are examples of specific purposes which may be adopted by an agency in its supplement and added to the Limited Rights Notice of subparagraph (g)(2) of the clause (Alternate II): (i) Use (except for manufacture) by support service contractors. (ii) Evaluation by nongovernment evaluators. (iii) Use (except for manufacture) by other contractors participating in the Government's program of which the specific contract is a part, for information and use in connection with the work performed under each contract. (iv) Emergency repair or overhaul work. (v) Release to a foreign government, or instrumentality thereof, as the interests of the United States Government may require, for information or evaluation, or for emergency repair or overhaul work by such government. (2) As an aid in determining whether the clause at 52.227–14 should be used with its Alternate II, the provision at 52.227–15, Representation of Limited Rights Data and Restricted Computer Software, may be included in any solicitation containing the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General. This provision requests that an offeror state in response to a solicitation, to the extent feasible, whether limited rights data are likely to be used in meeting the data delivery requirements set forth in the solicitation. In addition, the need for Alternate II should be considered during negotiations or discussion with an offeror, particularly where negotiations are based on an unsolicited proposal. However, use of the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, without Alternate II does not preclude this Alternate from being used subsequently by modification during contract performance, should the need arise for delivery of limited rights data that have been withheld or identified as withholdable. (3) Whenever data that would qualify as limited rights data, if it were to be delivered in human readable form, is formatted as a computer data base for the purpose of delivery under a contract containing the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, such data is to be treated as limited rights data, rather than restricted computer software, for the purposes of paragraph (g) of that clause. (e) Protection of restricted computer software specified for delivery. (1) Contracting officers are authorized to modify the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, by use of Alternate III, which Alternate adds subparagraph (g)(3) to the clause to enable the Government to require delivery of restricted computer software rather than allowing the contractor to withhold such restricted computer software. To obtain such delivery, the contract may identify and specify the computer software to be delivered, or the contracting officer may require by written request during contract performance, the delivery of computer software that has been withheld or identified as withholdable under subparagraph (g)(1) of the clause. In addition, if agreed to during negotiations, the contract may specifically identify computer software that are not to be delivered under Alternate III or which, if delivered, will be with restricted rights. In considering whether to use the clause at 52.227–14 with its Alternate III, it should be particularly noted that unlike other data, computer software is also an end item in itself, such that if withheld and form, fit, and function data provided in lieu thereof, an operational program will not be acquired. Thus, if delivery of restricted computer software is anticipated to be needed to meet contract performance requirements, the contracting officer should assure that the clause is used with its Alternate III. Unless otherwise agreed to (see paragraph (e)(2) of this section) the restricted rights obtained by the Government are set forth in the Restricted Rights Notice contained in subparagraph (g)(3) (Alternate III). Such restricted computer software will not be used or reproduced by the Government, or disclosed outside the Government, except that the computer software may be— (i) Used or copied for use in or with the computer or computers for which it was acquired, including use at any Government installation to which such computer or computers may be transferred; (ii) Used or copied for use in or with a backup computer if any computer for which it was acquired becomes inoperative; (iii) Reproduced for safekeeping (archives) or backup purposes; (iv) Modified, adapted, or combined with other computer software, provided that the modified, combined, or adapted portions of any derivative software incorporating restricted computer software are made subject to the same restricted rights; (v) Disclosed to and reproduced for use by support service contractors, subject to the same restriction under which the Government acquired the software; (vi) Used or copied for use in or transferred to a replacement computer; and (vii) Used in accordance with subdivisions (e)(1) (i) through (v) of this section, without disclosure prohibitions, if the computer software is published copyrighted computer software. (2) The restricted rights set forth in subparagraph (e)(1) of this section are the minimum rights the Government normally obtains with restricted computer software and will automatically apply when such software is acquired under the Restricted Rights Notice of subparagraph (g)(3) (Alternate III) of the clause. However, either greater or lesser rights, consistent with the purposes and needs for which the software is to be acquired, may be specified by the contracting officer in a particular contract or prescribed in agency regulations. For example, consideration should be given to any networking needs or any requirements for use of the computer software from remote terminals. Also, in addressing such needs, the scope of the restricted rights may be different for the documentation accompanying the computer software than for the programs and data bases. Any additions to, or limitations on, the restricted rights set forth in the Restricted Rights Notice of subparagraph (g)(3) of the clause are to be expressly stated in the contract or in a collateral agreement incorporated in and made part of the contract, and the notice modified accordingly. (3) As an aid in determining whether the clause should be used with its Alternate III, the provision at 52.227–15, Representation of Limited Rights Data and Restricted Computer Software, may be included in any solicitation containing the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General. This provision requests that an offeror state, in response to a solicitation, to the extent feasible, whether restricted computer software is likely to be used in meeting the data delivery requirements set forth in the solicitation. In addition, the need for Alternate III should be considered during negotiations or discussions with an offeror, particularly where negotiations are based on an unsolicited proposal. However, use of the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, without Alternate III does not preclude this Alternate from being used subsequently by modification during contract performance, should the need arise for the delivery of restricted computer software that has been withheld or identified as withholdable. (f) Copyrighted data—(1) Data first produced in the performance of a contract. (i) In order to enhance the transfer or dissemination of information produced at Government expense, contractors are normally authorized, without prior approval of the contracting officer, to establish claim to copyright subsisting in technical or scientific articles based on or containing data first produced in the performance of work under a contract containing the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General and published in academic, technical or professional journals, symposia proceedings and similar works. Otherwise, the permission of the contracting officer is required in accordance with subdivision (f)(1)(ii) of this section or any applicable agency regulations, to establish claim to copyright subsisting in data first produced in the performance of a contract unless the clause is used with its Alternate IV in accordance with subdivision (f)(1)(iii) of this section. Agencies may, however, restrict copyright under certain circumstances in accordance with subparagraph (g)(3) of this section. (ii) Usually, permission for a contractor to establish claim to copyright subsisting in data first produced under the contract will be granted when copyright protection will enhance the appropriate transfer or dissemination of such data and the commercialization of products or processes to which it pertains. The request for permission must be made in writing, and may be made either prior to contract award or subsequently during contract performance. It should identify the data involved or furnish copies of the data for which permission is requested, as well as a statement as to the intended publication or dissemination media or other purpose for which copyright is desired. The request normally will be granted unless—(A) the data consist of a report that represents the official views of the agency or that the agency is required by statute to prepare; (B) the data are intended primarily for internal use by the Government; (C) the data are of the type that the agency itself distributes to the public under an agency program; (D) the Government determines that limitation on distribution of the data is in the national interest; (E) the Government determines that the data should be disseminated without restriction. (iii) An Alternate IV is provided for use with the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, which Alternate provides a substitute subparagraph (c)(1) in the clause granting blanket permission for contractors to establish claim to copyright subsisting in all data first produced in the performance of the contract without further request being made by the contractor. Alternate IV shall be used in all contracts for basic or applied research (other than those for management or operation of Government facilities and in contracts and subcontracts in support of programs being conducted at such facilities or where international agreements require otherwise) to be performed solely by colleges and universities. Alternate IV will not be used in contracts with colleges and universities if a purpose of the contract is for development of computer software for distribution to the public (including use in solicitations) by or on behalf of the Government. In addition, Alternate IV may be used in other contracts if an agency determines to grant blanket permission for contractors to establish claim to copyright subsisting in all data first produced in the performance of contract without further request being made by the contractor. In any contract where Alternate IV is used, the contract may exclude any data, items or categories of data from the blanket permission granted, either by express provisions in the contract or by the addition of a subparagraph (d)(3) to the clause, consistent with subparagraph (g)(3) of this section. (iv) Whenever a contractor establishes claim to copyright subsisting in data (other than computer software) first produced in the performance of a contract, the Government is granted a paid-up nonexclusive, irrevocable, worldwide license to reproduce, prepare derivative works, distribute to the public, perform publicly and display publicly by or on behalf of the Government, for all such data, as set forth in subparagraph (c)(1) of the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General. For computer software the scope of the Government's license does not include the right to distribute to the public. Agencies may also, either on a case-by-case basis, or on a class basis if provided in implementing regulations, obtain a license of different scope than set forth in subparagraph (c)(1) of the clause if the agency determines that such different license will substantially enhance the transfer or dissemination of any data first produced under the contract, and will not interfere with the Government's use of the data as contemplated by the contract or if required for international agreements. If an agency obtains such a different license, the scope of that license shall be clearly stated in a conspicuous place on the medium on which the data is recorded. That is, if a report, the scope of the different license shall be put on the cover, or first page, of the report. If computer software, the scope of the different license shall be placed on the most conspicuous place available. (v) Whenever a contractor establishes claim to copyright in data first produced in the performance of a contract, irrespective of which Alternate is used with the clause or the scope of the Government's license, the contractor is required to affix the applicable copyright notices of 17 U.S.C. 401 or 402, and acknowledgment of Government sponsorship (including the contract number) to the data whenever such data are delivered to the Government, published, or deposited for registration as a published work in the U.S. Copyright Office. Failure to do so could result in such data being treated as unlimited rights data (see paragraph (i) of this section). (2) Data not first produced in the performance of a contract. (i) Contractors are not to incorporate in data delivered under a contract any data that is not first produced under the contract and that is marked with the copyright notice of 17 U.S.C. 401 or 402, without either (A) acquiring for or granting to the Government certain copyright license rights for the data, or (B) obtaining permission from the contracting officer to do otherwise. The copyright license the Government acquires for such data will normally be of the same scope as discussed in subdivision (f)(1)(iv) of this section, and is set forth in subparagraph (c)(2) of the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General. However, agencies may, on a case-by-case basis, or on a class basis if provided in implementing agency regulations, obtain a license of different scope if the agency determines that such different license will not be inconsistent with the purpose of acquiring the data. If a license of a different scope is acquired, it must be so stated in the contract and clearly set forth in a conspicuous place on the data when delivered to the Government. In addition, if computer software not first produced under a contract is delivered with the copyright notice of 17 U.S.C. 401, the Government's license will be as set forth in subparagraph (g)(3) (Alternate III) if included in the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, or as otherwise may be provided in a collateral agreement incorporated in or made part of the contract. (ii) Contractors delivering data with both an authorized limited rights or restricted rights notice and the copyright notice of 17 U.S.C. 401 or 402 should modify the copyright notice to include the following (or similar) statement: Unpublished—all rights reserved under the copyright laws of the United States. If this statement is omitted, the contractor may be afforded an opportunity to correct it in accordance with paragraph (h) of this section. Otherwise, data delivered with a copyright notice of 17 U.S.C. 401 or 402 may be presumed to be published copyrighted data subject to the applicable license rights set forth in subdivision (f)(2)(i) of this section, without disclosure limitations or restrictions. (iii) If contractor action causes limited rights or restricted rights data to be published with the copyright notice of 17 U.S.C. 401 or 402 after its delivery to the Government, the Government is relieved of disclosure and use limitations and restrictions regarding such data, and the contractor should advise the Government, request that a copyright notice be placed on the copies of the data delivered to the Government and acknowledge that the applicable copyright license set forth in subdivision (f)(2)(i) of this section applies. (g) Release, publication, and use of data. (1) In paragraph (d) of the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, subparagraph (d)(1) recognizes the fact that normally the contractor has the right to use, release to others, reproduce, distribute, or publish data first produced in the performance of a contract, except to the extent such data may be subject to Federal export control or to national security laws or regulations. In addition, to the extent the contractor receives or is given access to data that is necessary for the performance of the contract from or by the Government or others acting on behalf of the Government, and the data contains restrictive markings, subparagraph (d)(2) provides an agreement with the contractor to treat the data in accordance with the markings, unless otherwise specifically authorized by the contracting officer. (2) In contracts for basic or applied research with universities or colleges, no restrictions may be placed upon the conduct of or reporting on the results of unclassified basic or applied research, except as provided in applicable U.S. Statutes. For the purposes of this subparagraph, agency restrictions on the release or disclosure of computer software that has been, readily can be, or is intended to be, developed to the point of practical application (including for agency distribution under established programs) are not considered restrictions on the reporting of the results of basic or applied research. Agencies may also restrict claim to copyright in any computer software for purposes of established agency distribution programs, or where required to accomplish the purpose for which the software is produced. (3) Except for the results of basic or applied research under contracts with universities or colleges, agencies may, to the extent provided in their FAR supplements, place limitations or restrictions on the contractor's right to use, release to others, reproduce, distribute, or publish any data first produced in the performance of the contract, including a requirement to assign copyright to the Government or another party, either by adding a subparagraph (d)(3) to the Rights in Data—General clause at 52.227–14, or by express limitations or restrictions in the contract. In the latter case, the limitations or restrictions should be referenced in the Rights in Data—General clause. However, such regulatory restrictions or limitations are not to be imposed unless they are determined by the agency to be necessary in the furtherance of agency mission objectives, needed to support specific agency programs, or necessary to meet statutory requirements. Notwithstanding the provisions of this subparagraph, agencies may obtain, if provided in their FAR supplement, for information purposes only, advance copies of articles intended for publication in academic, scientific or technical journals or symposia proceedings or similar works. (h) Unauthorized marking of data. Except for validation of restrictive markings on technical data under contracts for major systems, or for support of major systems, by agencies subject to the provisions of Title III of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949, the Government has, in accordance with paragraph (e) of the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, the right to either return to the contractor data containing markings not authorized by that clause, or to cancel or ignore such markings. However, markings will not be canceled or ignored without making written inquiry of the contractor and affording the contractor at least 30 days to provide a written justification to substantiate the propriety of the markings. Failure of the contractor to respond, or failure to provide a written justification to substantiate the propriety of the markings within the time afforded, may result in the Government's action to cancel or ignore the markings. If the contractor provides a written justification to substantiate the propriety of the markings, it will be considered by the contracting officer and the contractor notified of any determination based thereon. If the contracting officer determines that the markings are authorized, the contractor will be so notified in writing. Further, if the contracting officer determines, with concurrence of the head of the contracting activity, that the markings are not authorized, the contractor will be furnished a written determination which shall become the final agency decision regarding the appropriateness of the markings and the markings will be cancelled or ignored and the data will no longer be made subject to disclosure prohibitions, unless the contractor files suit within 90 days in a court of competent jurisdiction. In any event, the markings will not be cancelled or ignored unless the contractor fails to respond within the period provided, or, if the contractor does respond, until final resolution of the matter, either by the contracting officer's determination becoming the final agency decision or by final disposition of the matter by court decision if suit is filed. The foregoing procedures may be modified in accordance with agency regulations implementing the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552) if necessary to respond to a request thereunder. In addition, the contractor is not precluded from bringing a claim under the Contract Disputes Act, including pursuant to the Disputes clause of this contract if applicable, that may arise as the result of the Government's action to remove or ignore any markings on data, unless such action occurs as the result of a final disposition of the matter by a court of competent jurisdiction. (i) Omitted or incorrect notices. (1) Data delivered under a contract containing the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, without a limited rights notice or restricted rights notice, and without a copyright notice, will be presumed to have been delivered with unlimited rights, and the Government assumes no liability for the disclosure, use, or reproduction of such data. However, to the extent the data has not been disclosed without restriction outside the Government, the contractor may within 6 months (or a longer period approved by the contracting officer for good cause shown) request permission of the contracting officer to have omitted limited rights or restricted rights notices, as applicable, placed on qualifying data at the contractor's expense, and the contracting officer may agree to so permit if the contractor (i) identifies the data for which a notice is to be added or corrected, (ii) demonstrates that the omission of the proposed notice was inadvertent, (iii) establishes that use of the proposed notice is authorized, and (iv) acknowledges that the Government has no liability with respect to any disclosure or use of any such data made prior to the addition of the notice or resulting from the omission of the notice. (2) The contracting officer may also (i) permit correction, at the contractor's expense, of incorrect notices if the contractor identifies the data on which correction of the notice is to be made, and demonstrates that the correct notice is authorized, or (ii) correct any incorrect notices. (j) Inspection of data at the contractor's facility. Contracting officers may obtain the right to inspect data at the contractor's facility by use of Alternate V, which adds paragraph (j) to provide that right in the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General. Agencies may also adopt Alternate V for general use. The data subject to inspection may be data withheld or withholdable under subparagraph (g)(1) of the clause. Such inspection may be made by the contracting officer or designee (including nongovernmental personnel under the same conditions as the contracting officer) for the purpose of verifying a contractor's assertion regarding the limited rights or restricted rights status of the data, or for evaluating work performance under the contract. This right may be exercised up to 3 years after acceptance of all items to be delivered under the contract. The contract may specify data items that are not subject to inspection under paragraph (j) (Alternate V). If the contractor demonstrates to the contracting officer that there would be a possible conflict of interest if inspection were made by a particular representative, the contracting officer shall designate an alternate representative. [52 FR 18140, May 13, 1987, as amended at 64 FR 10532, Mar. 4, 1999] (a) Production of special works. (1) The clause at 52.227–17, Rights in Data—Special Works, is to be used in contracts (or may be made applicable to portions thereof) that are primarily for the production or compilation of data (other than limited rights data or restricted computer software) for the Government's own use, or when there is a specific need to limit distribution and use of the data and/or to obtain indemnity for liabilities that may arise out of the content, performance, or disclosure of the data. Examples are contracts for— (i) The production of audiovisual works, including motion pictures or television recordings with or without accompanying sound, or for the preparation of motion picture scripts, musical compositions, sound tracks, translation, adaptation, and the like; (ii) Histories of the respective agencies, departments, services, or units thereof; (iii) Surveys of Government establishments; (iv) Works pertaining to the instruction or guidance of Government officers and employees in the discharge of their official duties; (v) The compilation of reports, books, studies, surveys, or similar documents that do not involve research, development, or experimental work; (vi) The collection of data containing personally identifiable information such that the disclosure thereof would violate the right of privacy or publicity of the individual to whom the information relates; (vii) Investigatory reports; (viii) The development, accumulation, or compilation of data (other than that resulting from research, development, or experimental work performed by the contractor), the early release of which could prejudice follow-on acquisition activities or agency regulatory or enforcement activities; or (ix) The development of computer software programs, where the program— (A) May give a commercial advantage; or; (B) Is agency mission sensitive, and release could prejudice agency mission, programs, or follow-on acquisitions. (2) The contract may specify the purposes and conditions (including time limitations) under which the data may be used, released, or reproduced other than for contract performance. Contracts for the production of audiovisual works, sound recordings, etc., may include limitations in connection with talent releases, music licenses, and the like that are consistent with the purposes for which the works are acquired. (3) Subdivision (c)(1)(ii) of the clause at 52.227–17, Rights in Data—Special Works, which enables the Government to obtain assignment of copyright in any data first produced in the performance of the contract, may be deleted if the contracting officer determines that such assignment is not needed to further the objectives of the contract. (4) Paragraph (e) of the clause, which requires the contractor to indemnify the Government against any liability incurred as the result of any violation of trade secrets, copyrights, right of privacy or publicity, or any libelous or other unlawful matter arising out of or contained in any production or compilation of data that are subject to the clause, may be deleted or limited in scope where the contracting officer determines that, because of the nature of the particular data involved, such liability will not arise. (5) When the audiovisual or other special works are produced to accomplish a public purpose other than acquisition for the Government's own use (such as for production and distribution to the public of such works by other than a Federal agency) agencies are authorized to modify the Rights in Data—Special Works clause for use in such contracts, with rights in data provisions which meet agency mission needs yet protect free speech and freedom of expression, as well as the artistic license of the creator of the work. (b) Rights relating to existing data other than limited rights data—(1) Acquisition of existing audiovisual and similar works. The clause at 52.227–18, Rights in Data—Existing Works, is for use in contracts exclusively for the acquisition (without modification) of existing motion pictures, television recordings, and other audiovisual works; sound recordings; musical, dramatic, and literary works; pantomimes and choreographic works; pictorial, graphic, and sculptural works; and works of a similar nature. The contract may set forth limitations consistent with the purposes for which the works covered by the contract are being acquired. Examples of these limitations are (i) means of exhibition or transmission, (ii) time, (iii) type of audience, and (iv) geographical location. If the contract requires that works of the type indicated in subparagraph (b)(1) of this section are to be modified through editing, translation, or addition of subject matter, etc. (rather than purchased in existing form) the clause at 52.227–17, Rights in Data—Special Works, is to be used. (See paragraph (a) of this section.) (2) Acquisition of existing computer software. (i) When contracting other than from GSA's Multiple Award Schedule contracts for the acquisition of existing computer software (i.e., privately developed software normally vended commercially under a license or lease agreement restricting its use, disclosure, or reproduction), no specific contract clause prescribed in this subpart need be used, but the contract (or purchase order) must specifically address the Government's rights to use, disclose and reproduce the software, which rights must be sufficient for the Government to fulfill the need for which the software is being acquired. Such rights may be negotiated and set forth in the contract using the guidance concerning restricted rights as set forth in 27.404(e), or the clause at 52.227–19, Commercial Computer Software—Restricted Rights, may be used. Restricted computer software acquired under GSA Multiple Award Schedule contracts and orders are excluded from this requirement. The guidance concerning rights set forth in 27.404(e), as well as those in the clause at 52.227–19, are the minimum rights the Government usually should accept. Thus if greater rights than these minimum rights are needed, or lesser rights are to be acquired, they must be negotiated and set forth in the contract (or purchase order). This includes any additions to, or limitations on, the rights set forth in paragraph (b) of the clause at 52.227–19 when used. Examples of greater rights may be those necessary for networking purposes or use of the software from remote terminals communicating with a host computer where the software is located. If the computer software is to be acquired with unlimited rights, the contract must also so state. In addition, the contract must adequately describe the computer programs and/or data bases, the form (tapes, punch cards, disk pack, and the like), and all the necessary documentation pertaining thereto. If the acquisition is by lease or license, the disposition of the computer software (by returning to the vendor or destroying) at the end of the term of the lease or license must be addressed. (ii) If the contract incorporates, makes reference to, or uses a vendor's standard commercial lease, license, or purchase agreement, such agreement shall be reviewed to assure that it is consistent with subdivision (b)(2)(i) of this section. Caution should be exercised in accepting a vendor's terms and conditions, since they may be directed to commercial sales and may not be appropriate for Government contracts. Any inconsistencies in a vendor's standard commercial agreement shall be addressed in the contract and the contract terms shall take precedence over the vendor's standard commercial agreement. If the clause at 52.227–19, Commercial Computer Software—Restricted Rights, is used, inconsistencies in the vendor's standard commercial agreement regarding the Government's right to use, duplicate or disclose the computer software are reconciled by that clause. (iii) If a prime contractor under a contract containing the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, with subparagraph (g)(3) (Alternate III) in the clause, acquires restricted computer software from a subcontractor (at any tier) as a separate acquisition for delivery to or for use on behalf of the Government, the contracting officer may approve any additions to, or limitations on the restricted rights in the Restricted Rights Notice of subparagraph (g)(3) in a collateral agreement incorporated in and made part of the contract. (3) Other existing data and works. Except for existing audiovisual and similar works pursuant to subparagraph (b)(1) of this section, and existing computer software pursuant to subparagraph (b)(2) of this section, no clause contained in this subpart is required to be included in (i) contracts solely for the acquisition of books, periodicals, and other printed items in the exact form in which such items are to be obtained unless reproduction rights are to be acquired; or (ii) other contracts (e.g., contracts resulting from sealed bidding) that require only existing data (other than limited rights data) to be delivered and such data are available without disclosure prohibitions, unless reproduction rights to the data are to be obtained. If the reproduction rights to the data are to be obtained in any contract of the type described in subdivision (b)(3) (i) or (ii) of this section, such rights must be specifically set forth in the contract. No clause contained in this subpart is required to be included in contracts substantially for on-line data base services in the same form as they are normally available to the general public. (c) Contracts awarded under Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Program. The clause at 52.227–20, Rights in Data—SBIR Program, is for use in all Phase I and Phase II contracts awarded under the Small Business Innovative Research Program (SBIR) established pursuant to Pub. L. 97–219 (the Small Business Innovation Development Act of 1982). The clause is limited to use solely in contracts awarded under the SBIR Program, and is the only data rights clause to be used in such contracts. [52 FR 18140, May 13, 1987, as amended at 63 FR 34077, June 22, 1998] (a) General. (1) It is the Government's practice to determine, to the extent feasible, its data requirements in time for inclusion in solicitations. The data requirements may be subject to revision during contract negotiations. Since the preparation, reformatting, maintenance and updating, cataloging, and storage of data represents an expense to both the Government and the contractor, efforts should be made to keep the contract data requirements to a minimum, consistent with the purposes of the contract. (2) To the extent feasible, all known data requirements, including the time and place for delivery and any limitations and restrictions to be imposed on the contractor in the handling of the data, shall be specified in the contract. Further, and to the extent feasible, in major system acquisitions, data requirements shall be set out as separate contract line items. In establishing the contract data requirements and in specifying data items to be delivered by a contractor, agencies may, consistent with subparagraph (a)(1) of this section, develop their own contract schedule provisions in agency procedures (including data requirements lists) for listing, specifying, identifying source, assuring delivery, and handling any data required to be delivered, first produced, or specifically used in the performance of the contract. (3) Data delivery requirements should normally not require that a contractor provide the Government, as a condition of the procurement, unlimited rights in data that qualify as limited rights data or restricted computer software. Rather, form, fit, and function data may be furnished with unlimited rights in lieu of the qualifying data, or the qualifying data may be furnished with limited rights or restricted rights if needed (see 27.404 (d) and (e)). If greater rights are needed such need should be clearly set forth in the solicitation and the contractor fairly compensated for such greater rights. (b) Additional data requirements. (1) Recognizing that in some contracting situations, such as experimental, developmental, research, or demonstration contracts, it may not be feasible to ascertain all the data requirements at the time of contracting, the clause at 52.227–16, Additional Data Requirements, may be used to enable the subsequent ordering by the contracting officer of additional data first produced or specifically used in the performance of such contracts as the actual requirements become known. The clause shall normally be used in solicitations and contracts involving experimental, developmental, research or demonstration work (other than basic or applied research to be performed under a contract solely by a university or college when the contract amount will be $500,000 or less) unless all the requirements for data are believed to be known at the time of contracting and specified in the contract. If the contract is for basic or applied research to be performed by a university or college, and the contracting officer believes the contract effort will in the future exceed $500,000, even though the initial award does not, the contracting officer may include the clause in the initial award. (2) Data may be ordered under the clause at 52.227–16, Additional Data Requirements, at any time during contract performance or within a period of 3 years after acceptance of all items to be delivered under the contract. The contractor is to be compensated for converting the data into the prescribed form, for reproduction, and for delivery. In order to minimize storage costs for the retention of data, the contractor may be relieved of retention requirements for specified data items by the contracting officer at any time during the retention period required by the clause. The contracting officer may permit the contractor to identify and specify in the contract data not to be ordered for delivery under the Additional Data Requirements clause if such data is not necessary to meet the Government's requirements for data. Also, the contracting officer may alter the Additional Data Requirements clause by deleting the term or specifically used in paragraph (a) thereof if delivery of such data is not necessary to meet the Government's requirements for data. Any data ordered under this clause will be subject to the Rights in Data—General clause (or other equivalent clause setting forth the respective rights of the Government and the contractor) in the contract, and data authorized to be withheld under such clause will not be required to be delivered under the Additional Data Requirements clause, except as provided in Alternate II or Alternate III, if included in the clause (see 27.404 (d) and (e)). (3) Agencies not having an established program for dissemination of computer software shall give consideration to not ordering additional computer software under the clause at 52.227–16, Additional Data Requirements, for the sole purpose of disseminating or marketing of the software to the public especially if this will provide the contractor additional incentive to make improvements to the software at its own expense and disseminate or market it. This should not preclude an agency from including a summary description of computer software available from a contractor in any data dissemination programs which it operates, with a statement as to how the potential user can obtain it through the contractor, licensee, or assignee. In cases where the contracting officer orders software for internal purposes, consideration shall be given, consistent with the Government's needs, to not ordering particular source codes, algorithms, processes, formulae or flow charts of the software if the contractor shows that this aids its efforts to disseminate or market the software. (c) Acceptance of data. As required by 41 U.S.C. 418a(d)(7), acceptability of technical data delivered under a contract shall be in accordance with the appropriate contract clause as required by subpart 46.3, and the clause at 52.227–21, Technical Data Declaration, Revision, and Withholding of Payment—Major Systems, when it is included in the contract. (See paragraph (d) of this section.) (d) Major system acquisition. (1) In order to assure that technical data needed to support a major system acquisition are timely delivered and are complete, accurate, and satisfy the requirements of the contract concerning the data, the clause at 52.227–21, Technical Data Declaration, Revision, and Withholding of Payment—Major Systems, is to be included in contracts for or in support of a major system (as the term major system is defined in section 4 of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act, as amended by Pub. L. 98–577), including every detailed design, development, or production contract for a major system acquisition and contracts for any individual part, component, subassembly, assembly, or subsystem integral to the major system, and other property which may be replaced during the service life of the system, and including spare parts and replenishment spare parts. (2) The clause at 52.227–21, Technical Data, Declaration, Revision, and Withholding of Payment—Major Systems, requires the contractor, upon delivery of any technical data made subject to the clause in the contract, to declare that to the best of its knowledge and belief, such data are complete, accurate, and comply with contract requirements. It also provides for corrections of any deficiencies in the data, as well as for the ability of the contracting officer to request revisions of the data to reflect engineering design changes made during performance of the contract and affecting form, fit, and function of the items the data depict. Further included is the authority for the contracting officer to withhold payment under the contract to assure timely delivery of the technical data and/or assure correction if the technical data are not complete, accurate, and in compliance with contract requirements. (3) When the clause at 52.227–21, Technical Data, Declaration, Revision and Withholding of Payment—Major Systems, is used, the section of the contract specifying data delivery requirements (see subparagraph (a)(2) of this section) shall expressly identify those line items of technical data to which the clause applies. Upon delivery of such technical data, the contracting officer or designee shall review the technical data and the contractor's declaration relating thereto to assure that the data are complete, accurate, and comply with contract requirements. If not, the contractor is to be requested to correct the deficiencies, and payment may be withheld until such is done. Final payment should not be made under the contract until it has been determined that the delivery requirements of those line items of data to which the clause applies have been satisfactorily met. (4) In a contract for or in support of a major system awarded by a civilian agency other than NASA or the U.S. Coast Guard the contracting officer shall include contractual provisions requiring, as an element of performance under the contract, the delivery of any technical data, other than computer software, relating to the major system or supplies for the major system procured or to be procured by the Government, which are to be developed exclusively with Federal funds in the performance of the contract if the delivery of such technical data is needed to ensure the competitive acquisition of supplies or services that will be required in substantial quantities in the future. The clause at 52.227–22, Major System—Minimum Rights, is to be included in such contracts in addition to the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, and other required clauses, to ensure that the Government acquires at least those rights required by Pub. L. 98–577 in technical data developed exclusively with Federal funds. In any contract to which this subparagraph (d)(4) applies, technical data, other than computer software, relating to a major system or supplies for a major system, procured or to be procured by the Government and also relating to the design, development, or manufacture of products or processes offered or to be offered for sale to the public (except for such data as may be necessary for the Government to operate or maintain the product, or use the process if obtained by the United States as an element of performance under the contract), shall not be required to be provided to the Government from persons who have developed such products or processes as a condition for the procurement of such products or processes by the Government. [52 FR 18140, May 13, 1987, as amended at 62 FR 236, Jan. 2, 1997] (a) Contracting officers may, in consideration of contract award, desire to acquire unlimited rights in technical data (but not commercial or financial information) contained in a successful proposal upon which a contract award is based. However, before such unlimited rights are acquired, the prospective contractor must be afforded the opportunity either (1) to advise the contracting officer that the technical data, or portions thereof (to be identified by the prospective contractor), are covered by any restrictive notice regarding the disclosure and use of proposal information authorized by subpart 15.2 or 15.6 (or any agency supplement thereto), and request that such protection be maintained by excluding the data from the Government's rights; or (2) to establish to the contracting officer's satisfaction that identified portions of the technical data do not relate directly to or will not be utilized in the work to be performed under the contract, and request that such portions be excluded from the Government's rights. (b) If unlimited rights to technical data in successful proposals, as set forth in paragraph (a) of this section, are to be acquired, it shall be by use of the clause at 52.227–23, Rights to Proposal Data (Technical). Any excluded technical data will be identified by inserting appropriate proposal page numbers in the clause, which clause enables the identification of data to be excluded from the Government's rights, as discussed in paragraph (a) of this section. Such exclusion is not dispositive of the protective status of the data, but any excluded technical data, as well as any commercial and financial information contained in the proposal, will remain subject to the policies in subpart 15.2 or 15.6 (or agency supplements thereto) relating to proposal information (i.e., will be used for evaluation purposes only). If the clause at 52.227–23, Rights to Proposal Data (Technical), is included in a contract, the prospective contractor must be specifically afforded the opportunity to exclude technical data as set forth in paragraph (a) of this section, and the contract file must reflect that fact. If there is a need to have access to any of the excluded technical data during contract performance, consideration should be given to their acquisition as limited rights data, if they so qualify, in accordance with 27.404(d). [52 FR 18140, May 13, 1987, as amended at 62 FR 51271, Sept. 30, 1997] (a) In contracts involving cosponsored research and development wherein the contractor is required to make substantial contributions of funds or resources (i.e., by cost-sharing or by repayment of nonrecurring costs), and the contractor's and the Government's respective contributions to any item, component, process, or computer software, developed or produced under the contract are not readily segregable, the contracting officer may limit the acquisition of or acquire less than unlimited rights to any data developed and delivered under such contract. Agencies may regulate the use of this authority in their supplements. Basically such rights should, at a minimum, assure use of the data for agreed-to Governmental purposes (including reprocurement rights as appropriate), and will address any disclosure limitations or restrictions to be imposed on the data. Also, consideration may be given to directed licensing provisions if needed to carry out the objectives of the contract. Since the purpose of the cosponsored research and development, the legitimate proprietary interests of the contractor, the needs of the Government, and the respective contributions of both parties may vary, no specific clauses are prescribed, but a clause providing less than unlimited rights in the Government for data developed and delivered under the contract (such as license rights) may be tailored to the circumstances consistent with the foregoing and the policy set forth in 27.402. As a guide, such clause may be appropriate when the contractor contributes money or resources, or agrees to make repayment of nonrecurring costs, of a value of approximately 50 percent of the total cost of the contract (i.e., Government, contractor, and/or third party paid costs), and the respective contributions are not readily segregable for any work element to be performed under the contract. Such clause may be used for all or for only specifically identified tasks or work elements under the contract. In the latter instance, its use will be in addition to whatever other data rights clause is prescribed under this subpart, with the contract specifically identifying which clause is to apply to which tasks or work elements. Further, such clause may not be appropriate where the purpose of the contract is to produce data for dissemination to the public, or to develop or demonstrate technologies which will be available, in any event, to the public for their direct use. (b) Where the contractor's contributions are readily segregable (by performance requirements and the funding therefor) and so identified in the contract, any data resulting therefrom may be treated under such clause as limited rights data or restricted computer software in accordance with 27.404 (d) or (e), as applicable; or if such treatment is inconsistent with the purpose of the contract, rights to such data may, if so negotiated and stated in the contract, be treated in a manner consistent with paragraph (a) of this section. (a)(1) The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, including its use with Alternate I through Alternate V as may be required or authorized in accordance with paragraphs (b) through (f) of this section, in solicitations and contracts if it is contemplated that data will be produced, furnished, or acquired under the contract, unless the contract is— (i) For the production of special works of the type set forth in 27.405(a), but the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, shall be included in the contract and made applicable to data other than special works, as appropriate; (ii) For the acquisition of existing data works, as described in 27.405(b); (iii) To be performed outside the United States, its possessions, and Puerto Rico, in which case agencies may prescribe different clauses (see paragraph (n) of this section); (iv) For architect-engineer services or construction work, in which case agencies may utilize the clause at 52.227–17, Rights in Data—Special Works, or may prescribe different clauses; (v) A Small Business Innovation Research contract (see paragraph (l) of this section); (vi) For the management, operation, design, or construction of a Government-owned facility to perform research, development, or production work, in which case agencies may prescribe different clauses (see paragraph (p) of this section); or (vii) A contract involving cosponsored research and development in which a clause providing for less than unlimited right has been authorized. (See 27.408). (2) Subparagraph (e)(3) of the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General, may be deleted or reserved by an agency not subject to Title III of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act. (b) If an agency determines, in accordance with 27.404(c), to adopt the alternate definition of Limited Rights Data in paragraph (a) of the clause, the clause shall be used with its Alternate I. (c) In accordance with 27.404(d), if a contracting officer determines it is necessary to obtain the delivery of limited rights data, the clause shall be used with its Alternate II. The contracting officer shall, when Alternate II is used, assure that the purposes, if any, for which limited rights data are to be disclosed outside the Government are included in the Limited Rights Notice of subparagraph (g)(2) of the clause. (d) In accordance with 27.404(e), if a contracting officer determines it is necessary to obtain the delivery of restricted computer software, the clause shall be used with its Alternate III. Any greater or lesser rights regarding the use, duplication, or disclosure of restricted computer software than those set forth in the Restricted Rights Notice of subparagraph (g)(3) of the clause must be specified in the contract and the notice modified accordingly. (e) The clause shall be used with its Alternate IV in contracts for basic or applied research (other than those for the management or operation of Government facilities or where international agreements require otherwise), to be performed solely by universities and colleges. The clause may be used with its Alternate IV in other contracts if in accordance with 27.404(f)(1) an agency determines to grant blanket permission for the contractor to establish claim to copyright subsisting in all data first produced without further request being made by the contractor. When Alternate IV is used, the contract may exclude items or categories of data from the blanket permission granted, either by express provisions in the contract or by the addition of a subparagraph (d)(3) to the clause (see 27.404(g)(2)). (f) In accordance with 27.404(i), if a contracting officer needs to have the right to inspect certain data at a contractor's facility or if by an agency, generally the clause shall be used with its Alternate V. (g) In accordance with 27.404(d)(2), if the contracting officer desires to have an offeror state in response to a solicitation, to the extent feasible, whether limited rights data or restricted computer software are likely to be used in meeting the data delivery requirements set forth in the solicitation, the contracting officer shall insert the provision at 52.227–15, Representation of Limited Rights Data and Restricted Computer Software, in any solicitation containing the clause at 52.227–14, Rights in Data—General. The contractor's response will provide an aid in determining whether the clause should be used with Alternate II and/or Alternate III. (h) The contracting officer shall normally insert the clause at 52.227–16, Additional Data Requirements, in solicitations and contracts involving experimental, developmental, research, or demonstration work (other than basic or applied research to be performed solely by a university or college where the contract amount will be $500,000 or less) unless all the requirements for data are believed to be known at the time of contracting and specified in the contract. (See 27.406(b).) This clause may also be used in other contracts when considered appropriate. (i) In accordance with 27.405(a), the contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.227–17, Rights in Data—Special Works, in solicitations and contracts primarily for the production or compilation of data (other than limited rights data or restricted computer software) for the Government's internal use, or when there is a specific need to limit distribution and use of the data and/or to obtain indemnity for liabilities that may arise out of the content, performance, or disclosure of the data. Examples of such contracts are set forth in 27.405(a). The contract may specify the purposes and conditions (including time limitations) under which the data may be used, released or reproduced by the contractor for other than contract performance. Contracts for the production of audiovisual works, sound recordings, etc. may include limitations in connection with talent releases, music licenses, and the like that are consistent with the purposes for which the data is acquired. (j) The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.227–18, Rights in Data—Existing Works, in solicitations and contracts exclusively for the acquisition, without modification, of existing audiovisual and similar works of the type set forth in 27.405(b)(1). The contract may set forth limitations consistent with the purposes for which the work is being acquired. The clause at 52.227–17, Rights in Data—Special Works, shall be used if existing works are to be modified, as by editing, translation, addition of subject matter, etc. (k) In accordance with 27.405(b)(2), when contracting (other than from GSA's Multiple Award Schedule contracts) for the acquisition of existing computer software, the clause at 52.227–19, Commercial Computer Software-Restricted Rights, may be used in the solicitation and contract. In any event, the contracting officer shall assure that the contract contains terms to obtain sufficient rights for the Government to fulfill the need for which the software is being acquired and is otherwise consistent with 27.405(b)(2). (l) If the contract is a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract, the clause at 52.227–20, Rights in Data—SBIR Program shall be used in all Phase I and Phase II contracts awarded under the Small Business Innovation Research Program established pursuant to Pub. L. 97–219 (The Small Business Innovation Development Act of 1982). (m) While no specific clause of this subpart is required to be included in contracts solely for the acquisition, without disclosure prohibitions, of books, publications and similar items in the exact form in which such items exist prior to the request for purchase (i.e., the off-the-shelf purchase of such items), or in other contracts (e.g., contracts resulting from sealed bidding) where only existing data available without disclosure prohibitions is to be furnished, if reproduction rights are to be acquired the contract shall include terms addressing such rights. (See 27.405(b)(3).) (n) Agencies may prescribe in their procedures, as appropriate, a clause consistent with the policy of 27.402 in contracts to be performed outside the United States, its possessions, and Puerto Rico. (o) Agencies may prescribe in their procedures the clause at 52.227–17, Rights in Data—Special Works, or prescribe, as appropriate, clauses consistent with the policy in 27.402 in contracts for architect-engineer services and construction work. (p) Agencies may prescribe in their procedures, as appropriate, a clause consistent with the policy of 27.402 in contracts for management, operation, design, or construction of Government-owned research, development, or production facilities, and in contracts and subcontracts in support of programs being conducted at such facilities. (q) In accordance with 27.406(d), the contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.227–21, Technical Data Declaration, Revision, and Withholding of Payment—Major Systems, in contracts for major systems acquisitions or for support of major systems acquisitions. When used, this clause requires that the technical data to which it applies be specified in the contract. (See 27.406(d).) (r) In the case of civilian agencies except NASA and the U.S. Coast Guard, the contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.227–22, Major System—Minimum Rights, in contracts for major systems or contracts in support of major systems. (s) In accordance with 27.407, if a contracting officer desires to acquire unlimited rights in technical data contained in a successful proposal upon which a contract award is based, the contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.227–23, Rights to Proposed Data (Technical). Rights to technical data in a proposal are not acquired by mere incorporation by reference of the proposal in the contract, and if a proposal is incorporated by reference, 27.404 must be followed to assure that such rights are appropriately addressed. [52 FR 18140, May 13, 1987, as amended at 55 FR 38517, Sept. 18, 1990; 62 FR 236, Jan. 2, 1997; 64 FR 10532, Mar. 4, 1999] Agencies shall provide all necessary rules and regulations as are required for the proper application of the laws and policies of the U.S. Government regarding— (a) Elimination in agreements between domestic concerns and foreign governments or foreign concerns of charges for the use of patents in which the U.S. Government has a royalty-free license or of charges in agreements for the use of data that the U.S. Government has a right to use and disclose to others, that is in the public domain, or that was acquired by the U.S. Government with the unrestricted right to use, duplicate, or disclose and to have or permit others to do so; (b) Foreign license and technical assistance agreements between the U.S. Government and United States domestic concerns; (c) Guidance on negotiating contract prices and terms concerning patents and data, including royalties, in contracts between the U.S. Government and a foreign government or foreign concern; and (d) Regulations and guidance on controls on the exportation of data relating to certain designated items, such as arms or munitions of war, and guidance on reviews of agreements involving such data (see 22 CFR part l24).
Title 48: Federal Acquisition Regulations System
PART 27—PATENTS, DATA, AND COPYRIGHTS
Section Contents
27.000 Scope of part.
27.101 Applicability.
27.102 [Reserved]
27.103 Policy.
27.104 General guidance.
27.200 Scope of subpart.
27.201 Authorization and consent.
27.201-1 General.
27.201-2 Clauses on authorization and consent.
27.202 Notice and assistance.
27.202-1 General.
27.202-2 Clause on notice and assistance.
27.203 Patent indemnification of Government by contractor.
27.203-1 General.
27.203-2 Clauses for sealed bid contracts (excluding construction).
27.203-3 Negotiated contracts (excluding construction).
27.203-4 Clauses for negotiated contracts (excluding construction).
27.203-5 Clause for construction contracts and for dismantling, demolition, and removal of improvements contracts.
27.203-6 Clause for Government waiver of indemnity.
27.204 Reporting of royalties—anticipated or paid.
27.204-1 General.
27.204-2 Solicitation provision for royalty information.
27.204-3 Patents—notice of Government as a licensee.
27.205 Adjustment of royalties.
27.206 Refund of royalties.
27.206-1 General.
27.206-2 Clause for refund of royalties.
27.207 Classified contracts.
27.207-1 General.
27.207-2 Clause for classified contracts.
27.208 Use of patented technology under the North American Free Trade Agreement.
27.209 Use of patented technology under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT).
27.300 Scope of subpart.
27.301 Definitions.
27.302 Policy.
27.303 Contract clauses.
27.304 Procedures.
27.304-1 General.
27.304-2 Contracts placed by or for other Government agencies.
27.304-3 Contracts for construction work or architect-engineer services.
27.304-4 Subcontracts.
27.304-5 Appeals.
27.305 Administration of patent rights clauses.
27.305-1 Patent rights follow-up.
27.305-2 Follow-up by contractor.
27.305-3 Follow-up by Government.
27.305-4 Conveyance of invention rights acquired by the Government.
27.305-5 Publication or release of invention disclosures.
27.306 Licensing background patent rights to third parties.
27.400 Scope of subpart.
27.401 Definitions.
27.402 Policy.
27.403 Data rights—general.
27.404 Basic rights in data clause.
27.405 Other data rights provisions.
27.406 Acquisition of data.
27.407 Rights to technical data in successful proposals.
27.408 Cosponsored research and development activities.
27.409 Solicitation provisions and contract clauses.
27.601 General.
27.000 Scope of part.
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Subpart 27.1—General
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27.101 Applicability.
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27.102 [Reserved]
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27.103 Policy.
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27.104 General guidance.
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Subpart 27.2—Patents
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27.200 Scope of subpart.
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27.201 Authorization and consent.
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27.201-1 General.
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27.201-2 Clauses on authorization and consent.
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27.202 Notice and assistance.
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27.202-1 General.
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27.202-2 Clause on notice and assistance.
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27.203 Patent indemnification of Government by contractor.
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27.203-1 General.
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27.203-2 Clauses for sealed bid contracts (excluding construction).
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27.203-3 Negotiated contracts (excluding construction).
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27.203-4 Clauses for negotiated contracts (excluding construction).
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27.203-5 Clause for construction contracts and for dismantling, demolition, and removal of improvements contracts.
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27.203-6 Clause for Government waiver of indemnity.
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27.204 Reporting of royalties—anticipated or paid.
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27.204-1 General.
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27.204-2 Solicitation provision for royalty information.
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27.204-3 Patents—notice of Government as a licensee.
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27.205 Adjustment of royalties.
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27.206 Refund of royalties.
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27.206-1 General.
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27.206-2 Clause for refund of royalties.
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27.207 Classified contracts.
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27.207-1 General.
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27.207-2 Clause for classified contracts.
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27.208 Use of patented technology under the North American Free Trade Agreement.
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27.209 Use of patented technology under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT).
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Subpart 27.3—Patent Rights Under Government Contracts
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27.300 Scope of subpart.
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27.301 Definitions.
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27.302 Policy.
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27.303 Contract clauses.
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27.304 Procedures.
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27.304-1 General.
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27.304-2 Contracts placed by or for other Government agencies.
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27.304-3 Contracts for construction work or architect-engineer services.
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27.304-4 Subcontracts.
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27.304-5 Appeals.
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27.305 Administration of patent rights clauses.
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27.305-1 Patent rights follow-up.
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27.305-2 Follow-up by contractor.
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27.305-3 Follow-up by Government.
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27.305-4 Conveyance of invention rights acquired by the Government.
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27.305-5 Publication or release of invention disclosures.
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27.306 Licensing background patent rights to third parties.
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Subpart 27.4—Rights in Data and Copyrights
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27.400 Scope of subpart.
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27.401 Definitions.
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27.402 Policy.
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27.403 Data rights—general.
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27.404 Basic rights in data clause.
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27.405 Other data rights provisions.
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27.406 Acquisition of data.
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27.407 Rights to technical data in successful proposals.
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27.408 Cosponsored research and development activities.
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27.409 Solicitation provisions and contract clauses.
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Subpart 27.5 [Reserved]
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Subpart 27.6—Foreign License and Technical Assistance Agreements
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27.601 General.
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