Requirement for independent cost analysis
Definition of Implementation.—
In this section, the term “implementation” means all activity in the life cycle of a project after preliminary design, independent assessment of the preliminary design, and approval to proceed into implementation, including critical design, development, certification, launch, operations, disposal of assets, and, for technology programs, development, testing, analysis, and communication of the results.
Requirement.—
Before any funds may be obligated for implementation of a project that is projected to cost more than $250,000,000 in total project costs, the Administrator shall conduct and consider an independent life-cycle cost analysis of the project and shall report the results to Congress. In developing cost accounting and reporting standards for carrying out this section, the Administrator shall, to the extent practicable and consistent with other laws, solicit the advice of experts outside of the Administration.
Notes
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Historical and Revision Notes |
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Revised Section | Source (U.S. Code) | Source (Statutes at Large) |
30307 | 42 U.S.C. 2459g. | Pub. L. 106–391, title III, § 301, Oct. 30, 2000, 114 Stat. 1591; Pub. L. 109–155, title VII, § 704, Dec. 30, 2005, 119 Stat. 2936. |
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Cost Estimation
Sense of Congress.—
It is the sense of Congress that—
realistic cost estimating is critically important to the ultimate success of major space development projects; and
the [National Aeronautics and Space] Administration has devoted significant efforts over the past 5 years to improving its cost estimating capabilities, but it is important that the Administration continue its efforts to develop and implement guidance in establishing realistic cost estimates.
Guidance and Criteria.—
The Administrator [of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration] shall provide to its acquisition programs and projects, in a manner consistent with the Administration’s Space Flight Program and Project Management Requirements—
guidance on when to use an Independent Cost Estimate and Independent Cost Assessment; and
criteria to use to make a determination under paragraph (1).”