This information collection is necessary to support ethical business practices through implementation of the requirements of the 41 U.S.C. chapter 87, Kickbacks, to deter subcontractors from making payments and contractors from accepting payments for the purpose of improperly obtaining or rewarding favorable treatment in connection with a prime contract, or a subcontract relating to a prime contract.
The increase of the estimated burden on the public from 100 hours to 2000 hours is an adjustment based on re-evaluation of the average hours per response. To ensure greater accuracy and to adjust for inflation, adjustments have been made to the average wages category by increasing the hourly wage rate from $24 to the more appropriate $30.81, and reducing the 75% overhead rate to the standard 36%. Similarly, the average wages and overhead category has been adjusted from $20 an hour and 100% overhead to the more appropriate hourly wage of $30.81 and 36% overhead. The burden estimates for the Government are based on the assumption that 100 reports alleging violation of the 41 U.S.C. chapter 87, Kickbacks, are received each year. The Government reviews reports to determine if a violation of the Act has occurred and take appropriate action.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.