OMB Circular A-119, “Federal Participation in the Development and Use of Voluntary Consensus Standards and in Conformity Assessment Activities”

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
Office of Management and Budget
OMB Circular A-119: Federal Participation in the Development and Use of Voluntary Consensus
Standards and in Conformity Assessment Activities
AGENCY: Office of Management and Budget, Executive Office of the President
ACTION: Final Revision of OMB Circular A-119
SUMMARY: The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has revised Circular A-119, "Federal
Participation in the Development and Use of Voluntary Consensus Standards and in Conformity
Assessment Activities" (hereinafter, Circular A-119, or, the Circular) in light of developments in
regulation, standards, and conformity assessment since the Circular was last revised in 1998.
DATES: The effective date of this Circular is January 27, 2016.
ADDRESSES: Direct any comments or inquiries to the Office of Information and Regulatory
Affairs, Office of Management and Budget at [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I.
Existing OMB Circular A-119
II.
Discussion and Responses to Significant Comments
III. Section-by-Section Discussion
Existing OMB Circular A-119. The vibrancy and effectiveness of the U.S. standards system in
enabling innovation depends on continued private sector leadership and engagement. Our
approach—reliance on private sector leadership, supplemented by Federal government contributions
to discrete standardization processes as outlined in OMB Circular A-119—remains the primary
strategy for government engagement in standards development.
The policies of Circular A-119 are intended to encourage Federal agencies to benefit from the
expertise of the private sector, promote Federal agency participation in standards bodies to support
the creation of standards that are useable by Federal agencies, and minimize reliance on
government-unique standards where an existing standard would meet the Federal government’s
objective.
The National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 (Public Law 104-113; hereinafter
known as “the NTTAA”) codified pre-existing policies on the development and use of voluntary
consensus standards in OMB Circular A-119, established additional reporting requirements for
agencies, and authorized the Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and
Technology (NIST) to coordinate conformity assessment activities.
Revision of OMB Circular A-119. OMB is revising this Circular in light of developments in
regulation, standards, and conformity assessment since the Circular was last revised in 1998. These
revisions reflect the experience gained by U.S. agencies in implementing the Circular since 1998,
and concluding and implementing U.S. trade agreements, as well as developments in domestic and
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international regulatory, standards, and conformity assessment policies.
The revised Circular reflects and supports the regulatory policies and principles set out in relevant
executive orders. OMB notes, in particular, the requirements of four executive orders, three of
which were issued after 1998:
•

Executive Order 12866 (“Regulatory Planning and Review”) states that regulations must be
consistent with law; regulations must identify the nature and significance of the problem;
agencies must identify and assess alternatives to address the problem along with the costs
and benefits of each alternative; and the approach selected should maximize net benefits to
society;

•

Executive Order 13563 (“Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review”) emphasizes that
the U.S. regulatory system “must protect public health, welfare, safety, and [the]
environment while promoting economic growth, innovation, competitiveness, and job
creation,” and stresses the importance of public participation and careful consideration of
both benefits and costs;

•

Executive Order 13609 (“Promoting International Regulatory Cooperation”) directs Federal
agencies to better coordinate U.S. priorities and positions with respect to international
regulatory cooperation efforts across U.S. Federal agencies. This includes promoting good
regulatory practices both in the United States and internationally, as appropriate, and
considering reforms that address unnecessary differences in regulatory requirements
between the United States and its major trading partners; and

•

Executive Order 13610 (“Identifying and Reducing Regulatory Burdens”) institutionalizes
the retrospective review mechanism set out in Executive Order 13563 and calls on agencies
to reduce the cumulative effects, including the cumulative burdens, of regulation.

In addition to the above Executive Orders, on January 17, 2012, OMB’s Office of Information and
Regulatory Affairs (OIRA), the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), and the Office of
the United States Trade Representative (USTR) released a Memorandum to Federal agencies on
“Principles for Federal Engagement in Standards Activities to Address National Priorities” (see
http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/memoranda/2012/m-12-08).
The revisions to Circular A-119 inform agencies of their statutory obligations in standards-setting
activities. Specifically, 19 U.S.C. § 2532 provides that “[n]o Federal agency may engage in any
standards-related activity that creates unnecessary obstacles to the foreign commerce of the United
States” and specifies four requirements for agencies’ standards-related activities:
1. Ensuring that imported products are not treated less favorably than like domestic products or
imported products from other countries;
2. Taking into consideration international standards – and basing standards upon them if
appropriate;
3. Developing standards based on performance criteria rather than design criteria when
appropriate; and
4. Ensuring foreign suppliers have access to conformity assessment procedures on the same
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basis as other domestic and foreign suppliers of like products.
In order to gather relevant information for this revision, OMB published a Request for
Information (RFI) in the Federal Register on March 30, 2012 (77 Fed. Reg. 19357) on “whether and
how to supplement Circular A-119.” The notice also announced OMB would be holding a public
workshop at NIST on May 15, 2012.
The RFI and public workshop allowed interested stakeholders to provide valuable input to OMB,
NIST, Federal regulators, and other relevant agencies on how the Federal government should
address regulatory, standards, and conformity assessment issues that have emerged or moved to the
forefront since the Circular was last promulgated in 1998. OMB received approximately 70
comments from a wide range of stakeholders, including companies, trade associations, academics,
public interest groups, standards developing bodies, conformity assessment bodies, and private
citizens.1
In response to those comments from 2012, OMB issued a Request for Comment on a Proposed
Revision of OMB Circular A-119, “Federal Participation in the Development and Use of Voluntary
Consensus Standards and in Conformity Assessment Activities,” on February 11, 2014 (79 Fed.
Reg. 8207). OMB received over 80 comments from a wide range of stakeholders including
companies and trade associations, academics, public interest groups, standards development bodies,
conformity assessment bodies, and private citizens.2
Discussion and Responses to Significant Comments
Although some commenters were critical of specific aspects of the proposed revision, the majority
of commenters expressed support for the overall revisions to the Circular and the approaches taken.
The more substantive comments are summarized below, along with OMB’s responses.
While OMB carefully considered the proposals and concerns of all commenters, many comments
were not germane, given the scope of the Circular. The purpose of the Circular is only to provide
guidance on agency use of standards at a level that is practical and useable for all agencies.
For example, OMB received particularly detailed or individualized comments regarding conformity
assessment requirements (OMB defers to NIST and its anticipated revisions to its Guidance on
Federal Conformity Assessment), country-specific standards policy (OMB defers to USTR), and the
publishing requirements for guidance and regulations for agencies (OMB defers to the Office of the
Federal Register). The most current version of NIST’s conformity assessment guidance is available
at http://www.nist.gov/standardsgov/.
Based on OMB’s consideration and responses to these public comments, as well as developments in
regulatory, standards, conformity assessment, and trade policy described above, the revised Circular
A-119:
1

Public comments submitted in response to OMB’s RFI can be found at
http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=OMB-2012-0003-0001.
2
Public comments submitted in response to the Proposed Revisions can be found at
http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=OMB-2014-0001-0001.

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•

provides additional guidance for agency participation in standards development activities,
including with respect to serving on standards technical committees as well as the boards of
standards developing bodies;

•

provides factors for agencies to consider when evaluating whether to use a standard to meet
agency needs;

•

strengthens the role of agency Standards Executives to encourage better internal
coordination and training on standards;

•

updates the provisions on how the U.S. Government manages and reports on the
development and use of standards;

•

sets out factors for agencies to consider when assessing the effectiveness of conformity
assessment options and determining the type(s) of conformity assessment program(s) to
employ;

•

provides guidance to agencies on how they should implement provisions of the Circular in
their rulemakings and guidance documents;

•

encourages each agency to alert the public through the Federal Register or the agency’s
webpage when the agency is considering whether to participate in the standards
development process of a particular body. Such notification would give the public notice
that the agency may use the resulting standard in support of significant regulatory action,
international regulatory cooperation activities or to otherwise address issues of national
priority;

•

provides guidance to agencies on what factors to consider when incorporating standards by
reference in regulation;

•

requires agencies to utilize the retrospective review mechanism set out in Executive Orders
13563 and 13610, to ensure, among other things, that regulations incorporating standards by
reference are updated on a timely basis;

•

encourages agencies to work together to reference the same version of standards in
regulation and procurements and coordinate on conformity assessment requirements, where
feasible;

•

incorporates references to trade-related statutory obligations on standards-related measures
and directs Federal agencies to consult with USTR on how to comply with international
obligations with regard to standards, technical regulations, and conformity assessment; and

•

maintains a strong preference for using voluntary consensus standards over governmentunique standards in Federal regulation and procurement.

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The Circular does not preclude the use of standards other than voluntary consensus standards in
rulemaking, procurement or other program activities in cases where: voluntary consensus standards
do not exist or where use of existing voluntary consensus standards would be inconsistent with law
or otherwise impractical, including where use of a voluntary consensus standard would not be as
effective at meeting the agency’s regulatory, procurement, or program needs. The Circular also
recommends that the agency consider allowing the use of other standards as alternative means for
complying with agency regulatory, procurement, or program requirements based on voluntary
consensus standards where such other standards are also found to be suitable under the agency’s
analysis.
Promoting Voluntary Consensus Standards: Comments received overwhelmingly supported a
continued preference for Federal agencies’ use of voluntary consensus standards in lieu of
developing their own standards, in line with the existing Circular and the requirements of Section
12(d) of the NTTAA.
There was also significant support among the commenters for providing Federal agencies the
flexibility to choose among standards developed in the private sector, particularly standards
developed for emerging technologies that may or may not precisely follow the traditional voluntary
consensus standards development process. As such, and in order for agencies to choose the best
standards for their mission needs, this policy maintains flexibility for agencies to use standards
developed in the private sector that best meet agencies’ regulatory, procurement, or program needs,
whether or not those standards are developed by voluntary consensus standards bodies. To assist
agencies in deciding which standards to use, the Circular identifies factors to consider including,
among others, the effectiveness and suitability of the standard for meeting agency regulatory,
procurement, or program needs, the extent to which a standard meets the definition of a “voluntary
consensus standard,” and whether the standard is reasonably available.
Along these lines, many respondents provided valuable comments regarding the revised definitions
in the Circular. The revised Circular incorporates a number of these suggestions intended to clarify
the qualifications for a voluntary consensus standards development process.
Several commenters asked for clarification on how the Circular addresses “leadership standards” (a
term used to describe standards that exceed minimum threshold requirements). The Circular does
not view leadership standards as different from other types of standards. As always, the Circular
will indicate a preference for voluntary consensus standards over government-unique standards, and
agencies may build on those standards as necessary to fulfill their obligations.
In addition, the Circular does not indicate a preference for one type of conformity assessment
procedure (e.g., supplier’s declaration of conformity, third-party certification) over others.
Agencies must have flexibility to determine the most appropriate conformity assessment program to
meet agency needs, consistent with law (see Section 7 of the Circular).
OMB further notes the Circular serves as a floor—not a ceiling—for when and how an agency
should use standards. Agencies can, and in many cases will, have additional guidance for agency
components or programs based on mission needs and other factors.
Updating Considerations for Conformity Assessment: Commenters who addressed this issue
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expressed moderate to very strong support for OMB providing guidance to agencies with respect to
conformity assessment. Commenters recommended that the Circular encourage agencies to rely on
private sector conformity assessment activities; provide criteria for agencies to utilize when
determining how to best meet their needs; and help agencies comply with relevant international
obligations regarding conformity assessment. Since the Circular was last published in 1998, the
evolution of an increasingly globalized marketplace has induced growth in the scope and
importance of conformity assessment. Global supply and distribution chains may mean a greater
number of variables for agencies to assess and more complex logistics to account for when
conducting assessments of conformity. Accordingly, the revised Circular encourages agencies to
consider leveraging existing private sector conformity assessment activities wherever consistent
with law and mission.
Ensuring Compliance with International Obligations: Numerous commenters on the RFI and
the Proposed Revision support OMB guidance to agencies on how to comply with relevant
international obligations, including the WTO Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade and other
trade agreements. Accordingly, OMB in coordination with USTR, which has statutory authority in
this area pursuant to 19 U.S.C. § § 2171 & 2541, has updated the Circular to reflect this need.
The Circular directs Federal agencies to consult with USTR on how to comply with international
trade obligations relating to standards, technical regulations and conformity assessment, including
those codified at 19 U.S.C. § 2531. In addition, the revisions direct Federal agencies to consult with
the State Department, to the extent international obligations other than trade obligations may be
implicated. With respect to the Federal government’s formulation of international policies on
standards and conformity assessment, regulation, and trade, the revisions would encourage,
consistent with Executive Order 13609, greater coordination between the Interagency Committee on
Standards Policy, the Regulatory Working Group, the Trade Policy Staff Committee and its
subcommittees, and any other relevant interagency groups or committees.
Several commenters to the Proposed Revision voiced concerns over specific issues regarding
reciprocity of standards use or recognition by other countries or trade unions. Since these
comments fall outside the Circular’s scope of providing guidance to agencies about the Federal
government’s use of standards, OMB encourages parties to address such concerns directly with
USTR.
Agency Considerations for Incorporation By Reference: A wide variety of commenters
representing public interest groups, individuals, citizens, standards development organizations
(SDOs), and companies provided comment on the question of incorporation by reference. Some
comments advocated for the maintenance of current law and policy, noting many SDOs already
freely publish their standards online in read-only formats, while others urged all standards
incorporated by reference be made freely available on the Internet.
The majority of these comments turned on particular interpretations of the “reasonably available”
requirement in the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which requires that standards incorporated
into regulation by reference be made reasonably available to the “class of persons affected.” As
noted in the Draft Revision, it is not within the purview of the Circular to define reasonable
availability. Rather, it is by statute the responsibility of the Office of the Federal Register (OFR) to
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address this issue.3 OFR revised its regulations on incorporation by reference in a final rule
published November 7, 2014 at 79 Fed. Reg 66267. In that rule, OFR balanced its statutory
obligations regarding reasonable availability of the standards with: (1) U.S. copyright law, (2) U.S.
international trade obligations, and (3) agencies' ability to substantively regulate under their
authorizing statutes. To address all of these obligations, the OFR rule required that agencies discuss
how materials incorporated by reference were made available to parties (and where those materials
are located) and to provide a summary of those materials in the preambles of their rulemaking
documents. These requirements oblige agencies to provide more information on how they make
material incorporated by reference available and a summary of the material, so readers can, if they
like, find and review the standards.
The revised Circular provides a non-exclusive set of factors to help agencies assess the availability
of specific standards for particular regulatory contexts. These considerations may therefore inform
the larger agency decision of whether to request approval for incorporation of those standards in
regulation. As explained in the revised Circular, the basis of these factors for consideration is the
Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS) Recommendation 2011-5, Incorporation
by Reference, 77 Fed. Reg. 2257 (January 17, 2012).4 ACUS adopted the Recommendation through
a consensus process in which a broad array of stakeholders participated, including standards
developing bodies, academics, public interest groups, regulators, and industry. Based on the
comments, the revised Circular bases its policy on the ACUS Recommendation, modified to
enhance clarity.
In general, the factors based on the ACUS Recommendation were well received, particularly the
provision by SDOs of read-only access to their standards. OMB received numerous comments from
SDOs highlighting the widespread existence of such a practice. In response to comments, OMB
amended the Circular to recommend that agencies also consider the ease of access, registration, and
navigation on those sites. OMB also received many comments on the option to provide a “freely
available, non-technical summary.” Some commenters expressed the need for greater clarity as to
what this might entail. Other commenters questioned the feasibility or utility of a non-technical
summary for lengthy, complex, and/or highly technical standards. To clarify, OMB modified this
factor to encourage agency discretion and collaboration with SDOs to enhance practical, impactful
improvements to availability on a case-by-case basis.
Additionally, OMB made clarifications emphasizing that: (1) the absence of one or more of such
factors should not prevent an agency from using a particular standard; (2) agencies should work
closely with SDOs to determine appropriate access to the standards for stakeholders; and (3)
agencies should explain the reasoning for their choice of standard, including an explanation of how
that standard may be accessed by stakeholders.
Strengthening Guidance for Agency Participation in the Standards Development Process and
the Role of Agency Standards Executives: Commenters expressed wide support for increased
guidance for agency participation, including in standards development voting and standards body
governance. As a floor, the revised Circular encourages agencies to participate fully in the
standards development process—through voting as well as standards body governance—as equal
3
4

See 5 U.S.C. §552(a)(1).
See http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-01-17/html/2012-621.htm.

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parties. OMB, however, defers to individual agencies on their policies for determining to what
extent and under what circumstances agency representatives are authorized to engage in
particular activities, based on agency requirements and priorities. Additionally, the Circular
encourages strong coordination by Agency Standards Executives (ASEs) to allow for effective
use of agency resources in the standards development process.
In response to requests for greater notice by agencies of their involvement in the standards
development process, the revised Circular provides guidance to agencies on how they should
discuss implementation of the Circular in their rulemakings and guidance documents. The
revised Circular also encourages each agency to alert the public through the Federal Register
and/or its webpage when the agency is considering whether to participate in the standards
development process of a particular body, with the intention of using the resulting standard to
support significant regulatory action, promote international regulatory cooperation activities, or
address issues of national priority. Many of the comments regarding agency participation
included agency-specific details that are beyond the scope of the Circular. OMB encourages
commenters to contact agencies directly with feedback regarding their voting, travel, or any other
policies.
Ensuring the Timely Updating of Regulations and Other Agency Materials Incorporating
Standards: Many commenters expressed views on whether the most current version of a standard
should always be the one used by an agency. OMB recognizes that agencies may have good
reasons for not using the most recent version of a standard. For example, if use of a revised
standard significantly increases compliance costs that are not justified by the benefits of using the
standard, the agency should be free to decline to adopt it.

To ensure the timely updating of standards, the revised Circular requires agencies to utilize the
retrospective review mechanism set out in Executive Orders 13563 and 13610. Many commenters
voiced strong support for such periodic review, with many agreeing with the suggested three-to-five
year review timeframe. OMB believes the use of retrospective review, as outlined by Executive
Orders 13563 and 13610, can help ensure (1) the optimal version of a standard is being used by
agencies; (2) agencies minimize the impact of conflicting requirements on their shared regulated
entities due to references to different versions of standards; and (3), more broadly, the need for the
standard and the regulation referencing it still exists.
Additionally, in response to comments, OMB encourages agencies to work closely with SDOs to
ensure agencies are aware of, and thus able to consider, updates and alternatives to existing
standards. OMB also encourages agencies to work together to reference the same version of
standards in regulation and procurements, consistent with statute and agency mission and
objectives.
OMB also received comments on specific provisions of the Proposed Circular. Below are the
significant comments OMB received and our responses.
Section-by-Section Discussion
Proposed Section 3e—Definition of Voluntary Consensus Standard. Final Section 2d.
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Several clarifications have been made to the definition to increase its technical accuracy (no
substantive changes are intended). A commenter suggested that the definition, which states
that a voluntary consensus standard needs to be either developed or adopted by a voluntary
consensus standards body, be clarified to make clear that the standard at issue was developed
or adopted through the use of a voluntary consensus standards development process. OMB
agrees and has clarified the final Circular accordingly.
Several other clarifications have been made. We have clarified that it is the voluntary
consensus standard bodies, not the standards, which have intellectual property policies. We
have also clarified that the Reasonable and Non-discriminatory (RAND) license obligations
extend to “implementers of the standard” (this replaces the term “all interested parties,”
which is a term of art in the rulemaking context).
Lastly, the Federal government does not make a distinction between standards bodies based
on where they are domiciled, but rather with respect to the attributes that characterize their
processes for standards development. Thus, we have deleted the phrase “both domestic and
international.” This edit is not intended to make a change in terms of coverage (the Circular
includes a discussion of “international standards” at Section 5h and 5i).
Proposed Section 3f(i)—Definition of Openness. Final Section 2e(i).
Many commenters expressed concern with the potential burden of the “at all stages” part of
the clause requiring SDOs to provide meaningful opportunities to participate. Several
commenters noted that, as a practical matter, this need is already covered by the
requirements for transparent procedures or processes and for due process. In response,
OMB modified the final Circular to omit the reference to “at all stages” and clarify that
opportunities to participate in standards development be on a non-discriminatory basis.
Proposed Section 3f(ii)—Definition of Balance of Representation. Final Section 2e(ii)—Definition
of Balance.
Several commenters questioned the utility of changing this element from “balance of
interest,” found in the current version of Circular A-119 as well as the American National
Standards Institute’s (ANSI) Essential Requirements, to “balance of representation.” OMB
intended for the definition to be consistent with the concepts of both those documents and
has simplified the term to “balance” to avoid confusion and to allow for flexibility in how
balance is determined during the consensus phase of the development or adoption of the
standard.
Additionally, some commenters expressed concern with the ambiguity of “sectors” in this
definition. Others commented that a key objective of “balance” is preventing a single
interest from dominating the decision-making process. OMB agrees and modified the final
Circular, adapting suggested insertions to the text of the definition.
Proposed Section 3f(iii)—Definition of Due Process. Final Section 2e(iii).

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Several commenters expressed concern with the burden and practicality of requiring “full
access” to the views and objections of other participants in standards development.
Commenters noted the risks of micromanagement and unnecessary overreach. OMB’s
intention is to ensure an adequate record of proceedings for the purpose of resolving
objections and appeals, so we have modified the final Circular to reflect this intent.
Proposed Section 6e—When deciding to use a standard, what are some of the factors my agency
should consider? Final Section 5a.
Several commenters expressed a desire for greater clarity in the relationship between agency
missions and the preference for voluntary consensus standards over government-unique
standards. OMB agrees, and therefore the Circular maintains the preference for voluntary
consensus standards, per the NTTAA, while still maintaining flexibility for agencies to best
meet their missions.
Additionally, some commenters highlighted the utility of considering the extent to which a
standard is already used by a Federal agency, by State and local governments, as well as the
prevalence of the standard in the national and international marketplace. These are
important considerations precisely aligned with Executive Orders 13563, 13609, and 13610,
discussed above. Accordingly, OMB agrees, and modified the Circular to include these
considerations.
Proposed Section 4g—How should my agency determine whether a voluntary standard is
“reasonably available” in a regulatory or non-regulatory context? Final Section 5f -- What factors
should my agency consider to aid the determination of whether a standard is “reasonably
available” in a regulatory or non-regulatory context?
In general, the factors based on the ACUS Recommendation were well received, particularly
SDO provision of read-only access to standards. OMB received numerous comments from
SDOs noting they already provide such access. One commenter, however, brought to
OMB’s attention the disparate capabilities and requirements of various read-only standards
websites. OMB agrees that this should be a consideration, and has amended the text to
recommend agencies also consider the ease of access, registration, and navigation on those
websites.
As referenced above, OMB also received many comments on the option to provide a “freely
available, non-technical summary.” Some commenters expressed the need for greater clarity
as to what this might entail. Other commenters questioned the feasibility or utility of
providing a non-technical summary for lengthy, complex, and highly technical standards.
To clarify, OMB modified this factor and potential option to encourage agency discretion
and cooperation with SDOs to enhance practical, impactful improvements to availability on
a case-by-case basis.
Additionally, in response to several comments asking for greater agency consideration of the
accessibility of standards incorporated by reference, OMB revised the Circular to
recommend that agencies provide, in the preamble of a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
(NPRM) or final rule or guidance document, an explanation of the incorporated materials;
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how such incorporated standards may be accessed; and how the agency’s incorporation by
reference of the standard would further the agency’s regulatory objective.
Proposed Section 7—What is the Policy for Federal Participation in Voluntary Standards Bodies?
Final Section 6 -- What is the Policy for Federal participation in Voluntary Consensus Standards
Bodies?
Several commenters questioned the reformatting of this section from the existing Circular,
specifically the absence of explicit authorization to provide “direct financial support” to
standards development activities. Many agencies do so, consistent with applicable law, and
here OMB defers to agency policy. To provide agencies with flexibility to meet their
missions, the Circular maintains the existing language.
Proposed Section 8a—What considerations should my agency make when it is determining the type
of conformity assessment procedure(s) to use? Final Section 7a—What considerations should my
agency make when it is addressing the need for conformity assessment?
In response to comments, OMB simplified this section. OMB has incorporated the previous
Section 8a, “Should my agency consider relying on private sector conformity assessment
activities in conjunction with, or where appropriate, in lieu of governmental conformity
assessment?” into one question which is now Section 7a, “What considerations should my
agency make when it is addressing the need for conformity assessment?”
Additionally several commenters expressed concern over the apparent distinction between
using “international conformity assessment schemes” or “private sector conformity
assessment activities” as was phrased in the proposed revision. OMB agrees that such
international conformity assessment schemes are just one example of private sector
conformity assessment activity, and modified the Circular accordingly.
Accordingly, OMB Circular A-119 is revised as set forth below.
Howard Shelanski
Administrator, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
Office of Management and Budget
Washington D.C. 20503
[insert date]
Circular No. A-119
Revised

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CIRCULAR NO. A-119,Revised

TO THE HEADS OF EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES
SUBJECT: Federal Participation in the Development and Use of Voluntary Consensus Standards
and in Conformity Assessment Activities
TABLE OF CONTENTS
BACKGROUND
1. What is the Purpose of this Circular?
DEFINITIONS
2. What is a Standard?
3. What is Conformity Assessment?
POLICY
4. To Whom Does This Policy Apply?
5. What is the Policy for Federal Use of Standards?
a. When deciding to use a standard, what are some of the factors my agency should consider?
b. Does this policy establish a preference between voluntary consensus standards and other
types of standards?
c. When must my agency use voluntary consensus standards?
d. What if no voluntary consensus standard exists?
e. Should my agency give preference to performance standards?
f. What factors should my agency consider to aid the determination of whether a standard is
“reasonably available” in a regulatory or non-regulatory context?
g. How should my agency reference standards?
h. Are there standards-related international trade obligations that agencies must adhere to
regarding the use of standards?
i. When should my agency consider using or recognizing a standard used by a trading partner?
j. How does this policy affect my agency's regulatory authorities and responsibilities?
k. How does this policy affect my agency's procurement authority?
l. What factors should my agency consider when determining whether to allow the use of more
than one standard?
m. How should my agency ensure that standards incorporated by reference in regulation are
updated on a timely basis?

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6. What is the Policy for Federal Participation in Standards Bodies?
a. Must agency participants be authorized?
b. Does agency participation indicate endorsement of any decisions reached by standards
bodies?
c. What forms of support may my agency provide?
d. Do agency representatives participate equally with other members?
e. How should my agency alert the public of its potential participation in standards
development activities that could be used as a basis for rulemaking or other mission-related
activities?
f. What if a voluntary consensus standards body is likely to publish a suitable standard intime
for an agency to use it?
7. What is the Policy on Conformity Assessment?
a. What considerations should my agency make when it is addressing the needs for conformity
assessment?
b. Are there statutory and international obligations concerning conformity assessment?
c. What obligations does my agency have when considering whether to recognize a conformity
assessment procedure in use in the market of a trading partner?
d. How does this policy affect my agency’s regulatory authorities and responsibilities?
e. When should my agency utilize the retrospective review mechanism with respect to
conformity assessment?
8. How will the U.S. Government Coordinate Regulatory Policy with Standards and Conformity
Assessment Policy?
MANAGEMENT AND REPORTING OF STANDARDS USE
9. How Does My Agency Manage and Report on the Implementation of the Circular?
10. What are the Procedures for Reporting My Agency's Use of Standards in Regulations?
11. What are the Procedures for Reporting My Agency's Use of Standards in Procurements?
a. How does my agency report the use of standards in procurements on a categorical basis?
b. How does my agency report the use of standards in procurements on a transaction basis?
AGENCY RESPONSIBILITIES
12. What are the Responsibilities of the Secretary of Commerce?
13. What are the Responsibilities of the Heads of Agencies?
14. What are the Qualifications and Responsibilities of Agency Standards Executives?
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
15. When will this Circular be reviewed?
16. What is the Legal Effect of this Circular?
17. Do You Have Further Questions?
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BACKGROUND
1. What is the Purpose of this Circular?
This Circular establishes policies to improve the internal management of the Executive Branch
with respect to the U.S. Government’s role in the development and use of standards and
conformity assessment. Consistent with section 12(d) of P.L. 104-113, the “National Technology
Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995,” as amended (hereinafter “the NTTAA”), and U.S.
Government executive orders, this Circular directs agencies to use standards developed or adopted
by voluntary consensus standards bodies rather than government-unique standards, except where
inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise impractical. The policies in this Circular are
intended to facilitate agencies’ compliance with obligations under U.S. trade statutes and trade
agreements. U.S. Federal law (19 U.S.C. § 2532) specifically prohibits any U.S. Government
agency from engaging in standards-related activities that create unnecessary obstacles to the
foreign commerce of the United States.
This Circular provides guidance for agencies participating in the work of voluntary consensus
standards bodies and describes procedures for satisfying the reporting requirements of the NTTAA.
The policies in this Circular are intended to minimize the reliance by agencies on governmentunique standards. The Circular also provides policy guidance to agencies on the use of conformity
assessment in procurement, regulatory, and program activities. This Circular replaces Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) Circular No. A-119, dated February 10, 1998.
Many voluntary consensus standards are appropriate or adaptable for the Federal government's
purposes. The use of such standards, whenever practicable and appropriate, is intended to achieve
the following goals:
(i)

eliminating the cost to the Federal government of developing its own standards
and decreasing the cost of goods procured and the burden of complying with
agency regulation;
(ii) providing incentives and opportunities to establish standards that servenational
needs, encouraging long-term growth for U.S. enterprises and promoting
efficiency, economic competition, and trade; and
(iii) furthering the reliance upon private sector expertise to supply theFederal
government with cost-efficient goods and services.

This Circular will also help agencies meet the five fundamental strategic objectives for Federal
engagement in standards activities set out in Memorandum M-12-08, “Principles for Federal
Engagement in Standards Activities to Address National Priorities”
(http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/memoranda/2012/m-12-08_1.pdf), which was
issued on January 17, 2012.
While M-12-08 applies to Federal engagement in standards activities in those exceptional
circumstances where the U.S. Government is playing a leading or convening role, OMB believes
that the objectives are generally applicable to Federal engagement in standards and conformity
assessment activities, absent contrary statutory requirements.
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In addition, the Circular seeks to support efforts by the Federal government to ensure that:
a. the benefits of regulations justify their costs, consistent with Executive Orders
12866, “Regulatory Planning and Review,” and 13563, “Improving Regulation and
Regulatory Review,” and OMB Circular A-4, “Regulatory Analysis”;
b. agencies modify, streamline, expand, or repeal regulations that may be outmoded,
ineffective, insufficient, or excessively burdensome through the retrospective review
process, consistent with Executive Orders 13563 and 13610, “Identifying and Reducing
Regulatory Burdens”;
c. agencies work with their regulatory counterparts in other countries to address common
health, safety, labor, security, or environmental issues, as well as unnecessary differences
between the regulatory approaches of U.S. agencies and those of their foreign counterparts
that may impair economic growth, innovation, competitiveness, and job creation, consistent
with Executive Order 13609, “Promoting International Regulatory Cooperation”; and
d. agencies consider the cumulative effects, including the cumulative burdens, of regulation,
consistent with Executive Order 13610.

DEFINITIONS

2. What is a Standard?
a. The term “standard,” or “technical standard,” (hereinafter “standard”) as cited in the
NTTAA, includes all of the following:
(i)

common and repeated use of rules, conditions, guidelines or characteristics for
products or related processes and production methods, and related management
systems practices;
(ii) the definition of terms; classification of components; delineation of procedures;
specification of dimensions, materials, performance, designs, or operations;
measurement of quality and quantity in describing materials, processes, products,
systems, services, or practices; test methods and sampling procedures; formats for
information and communication exchange; or descriptions of fit and measurements
of size or strength; and
(iii) terminology, symbols, packaging, marking or labeling requirements as they apply
to a product, process, or production method.
b. The term "standard" does not include the following:
(i)
(ii)

professional standards of personal conduct; or
institutional codes of ethics.
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c. “Government-unique standard” is a standard developed by and for use by the Federal
government in its regulations, procurements, or other program areas specifically for
government use (i.e., it is not generally used by the private sector unless required by
regulation, procurement, or program participation). The standard was not developed as a
voluntary consensus standard as described in Sections 2d and 2e.
d.

“Voluntary consensus standard” is a type of standard developed or adopted by voluntary
consensus standards bodies, through the use of a voluntary consensus standards
development process as described in Section 2e. These bodies often have
intellectual property rights (IPR) policies that include provisions requiring that
owners of relevant patented technology incorporated into a standard make that
intellectual property available to implementers of the standard on nondiscriminatory and royalty-free or reasonable royalty terms (and to bind subsequent
owners of standards essential patents to the same terms). In order to qualify as a
“voluntary consensus standard” for the purposes of this Circular, a standard that includes
patented technology needs to be governed by such policies, which should be easily
accessible, set out clear rules governing the disclosure and licensing of the relevant
intellectual property, and take into account the interests of all stakeholders, including the
IPR holders and those seeking to implement the standard.

e. “Voluntary consensus standards body” is a type of association, organization, or technical
society that plans, develops, establishes, or coordinates voluntary consensus standards
using a voluntary consensus standards development process that includes the following
attributes or elements:
(i)

Openness: The procedures or processes used are open to interested parties. Such
parties are provided meaningful opportunities to participate in standards
development on a non-discriminatory basis. The procedures or processes for
participating in standards development and for developing the standard are
transparent.
(ii) Balance: The standards development process should be balanced. Specifically,
there should be meaningful involvement from a broad range of parties, with no
single interest dominating the decision-making.
(iii) Due process: Due process shall include documented and publically available
policies and procedures, adequate notice of meetings and standards development,
sufficient time to review drafts and prepare views and objections, access to views
and objections of other participants, and a fair and impartial process for resolving
conflicting views.
(iv) Appeals process: An appeals process shall be available for the impartial handling
of procedural appeals.
(v) Consensus: Consensus is defined as general agreement, but not necessarily
unanimity. During the development of consensus, comments and objections are
considered using fair, impartial, open, and transparent processes.

See Section 5h of this Circular for a discussion of “international standards.”

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3. What is Conformity Assessment?
Conformity assessment” is a demonstration, whether directly or indirectly, that specified
requirements relating to a product, process, system, person, or body are fulfilled. Conformity
assessment includes sampling and testing, inspection, supplier’s declaration of conformity,
certification, and management system assessment and registration. Conformity assessment also
includes accreditation of the competence of those activities.

POLICY
4. To Whom Does This Policy Apply?
This Circular applies to all agencies and agency representatives who use standards or conformity
assessment and/or participate in the development of standards. “Agency” means any executive
department, independent commission, board, bureau, office, government-owned or controlled
corporation, or other establishment of the Federal government. It also includes any regulatory
commission or board, except for independent regulatory commissions insofar as they are subject to
separate statutory requirements regarding the use of voluntary consensus standards. It does not
include the Legislative or Judicial branches of the Federal government.
5. What is the Policy for Federal Use of Standards?
Consistent with Section 12 (d)(1) of the NTTAA, all Federal agencies must use voluntary
consensus standards in lieu of government-unique standards in their procurement and regulatory
activities, except where inconsistent with law or otherwise impractical. In these circumstances,
your agency must submit a report describing the reason(s) for its use of government-unique
standards in lieu of voluntary consensus standards as explained in Sections 9-11.
a. When deciding to use a standard, what are some of the factors my agency should
consider?

(i)

In evaluating whether to use a standard, which should be done on a case-by-case basis,
an agency should consider the following factors, where applicable:
(1) Whether the standard is effective and otherwise suitable for meeting agency
regulatory, procurement, or program needs, including as applicable:
(a) the nature of the agency’s statutory mandate and the consistency of the
standard with that mandate;
(b) the level of protection the standard provides or is expected to provide for public
health, welfare, safety, and the environment;
(c) the clarity and detail of the standard's language, as the wording of a standard
may contain too much detail as well as too little;
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(d) the costs and benefits of implementing other available standards that may also
meet the agency’s needs;
(e) the costs and benefits to the Federal government and the regulated public of the
agency developing its own standard;
(f) the ongoing use of the standard by other agencies for the same or a similar
requirement, the use of which in a particular instance would increase
consistency across the Federal government;
(g) the ongoing use of the standard by State and local governments for the same or
a similar requirement, the use of which in a particular instance would increase
consistency across jurisdictions;
(h) the prevalence of the use of the standard in the national and international
marketplaces;
(i) the problems addressed bythe standard and changes in the state of knowledge
and technology since the standard was prepared or last revised;
(j) the extent to which the standard establishes performance rather thandesign
criteria, where feasible;
(k) the ability of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to comply with the
standard; and
(l) the agency’s ability to use, and enforce compliance with, the standard in its
regulatory process.
(2) The extent to which, when preparing the standard, the standards body reflected the
attributes of a voluntary consensus standards body set out in Section 2e of the
Circular. The procedures related to these attributes (e.g., openness, balance, due
process, appeals process, and consensus) should be easily accessible, clear and
unambiguous.
(3) The extent to which the standard is an international standard (see Section 5h).
(4) Any barriers to membership and participation in the standards development
process, given that fee structures, modes of participation, and other factors can
impact the ability of SMEs, public interest groups, and the general public to
participate.
(5) Whether the standard is “reasonably available.” See Section 5f of the Circular for
additional information.
(6) The standards maintenance process used by the relevant standards developing body
or bodies.
(ii)

(iii)

If an agency is proposing to use a standard in a proposed or final rulemaking, the
agency must comply with the "Principles of Regulation" (enumerated in Section 1(b)
of Executive Order 12866, “Regulatory Planning and Review”), the analytical
requirements of other relevant executive orders, and other documents as applicable,
including those described in Section 1 of the Circular.
As a general matter, standards being considered for use in regulation that specify
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nomenclature, basic reference units, or methods of measurement or testing, and that
are primarily empirical in their formulation, will ordinarily warrant less scrutiny by an
agency than standards that embody factors that are less objective.
(iv)

An agency should, to the extent permitted by law, take account of the effect of using
the standard on the economy, and of applicable Federal laws and policies, including
laws and regulations relating to antitrust, national security, small business, product
safety, environment, metrication, technology development, international trade,
intellectual property and copyright, privacy and security, and conflicts of interest.

(v)

An agency should take into consideration the standards developer’s intellectual
property rights (IPR) policies. Many standards developing bodies have policies
requiring participating IPR holders to commit to license any relevant patented
technology incorporated into a standard on non-discriminatory and royalty-free or
reasonable royalty terms and to bind subsequent owners of standards-essential patents
to the same terms. Such policies should be easily accessible, set out clear rules
governing the disclosure and licensing of the relevant IPR, and take into account the
interests of all stakeholders, including the IPR holders and those seeking to implement
the standard.

b. Does this policy establish a preference between voluntary consensus standards and
other types of standards? Consistent with Section 12(d)(1) of the NTTAA, this policy
establishes a preference for the use of voluntary consensus standards in lieu of governmentunique standards. The Circular does not preclude the use of other standards in rulemaking,
procurement, or other program activities in cases where voluntary consensus standards do not
exist or use of existing voluntary consensus standards would be inconsistent with law or
otherwise impractical, including where use of a voluntary consensus standard would not beas
effective at meeting the agency’s regulatory, procurement or program needs. The Circular
also recommends that the agency consider allowing the use of other standards as alternative
means for complying with agency regulatory, procurement, or program requirements that
incorporate voluntary consensus standards, where such other standards are also found to be
suitable under the agency’s analysis. See Section 5l concerning the selection of multiple
standards.
c. When must my agency use voluntary consensus standards? Your agency must use
voluntary consensus standards in its regulatory, procurement, and program activities in lieu of
government-unique standards, unless use of such standards would be inconsistent with
applicable law or otherwise impractical. In all cases, your agency has the discretion to
decline to use existing voluntary consensus standards if your agency determines that such
standards are inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise impractical, and instead to use a
government-unique standard or other standard.
In addition to consideration of voluntary consensus standards, this Circular recognizes the
contributions of standardization activities that take place outside of the voluntary consensus
standards process. Therefore, in instances where use of voluntary consensus standards
would be inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise impracticable (e.g., no voluntary
consensus standard would be effective in meeting agency regulatory, procurement, or
19

program needs), agencies should consider, to the extent consistent with applicable law – as
an alternative to using a government-unique standard – other standards that meet the
agency’s regulatory, procurement or program needs, deliver favorable technical and
economic outcomes (such as improved interoperability) and are widely utilized in the
marketplace.
In those circumstances where an agency elects to use or develop a government-unique
standard in lieu of using a voluntary consensus standard, Section 12(d) of the NTTAA
requires the agency to submit a report describing the reason(s) to OMB. Under the Circular,
this report is submitted to OMB through the National Institute of Standards and Technology
(NIST). For more information on reporting, see Sections 9 -11 of this Circular.
(i)

(ii)

“Use” means incorporation of a standard in whole, in part, or by reference for
procurement purposes; inclusion of a standard in whole, in part, or by reference in
regulation(s); or inclusion of a standard in whole, in part, or by reference in other
mission-related activities.
“Impractical” includes circumstances in which such use would fail to serve the
agency's regulatory, procurement, or program needs; be infeasible; be inadequate,
ineffectual, inefficient, or inconsistent with the agency mission or the goals of using
voluntary consensus standards; be inconsistent with a provision of law; or impose more
burdens, or be less useful, than the use of another standard.

d. What if no voluntary consensus standard exists? In cases where no suitable voluntary
consensus standards exist, an agency may use suitable standards that are not developed by
voluntary consensus bodies. In addition, an agency may develop its own standards or use
other government-unique standards, solicit interest from qualified standards development
organizations for development of a standard, or develop a standard utilizing the process
principles outlined in Section 2e of the Circular. As explained above (see Section 5c of the
Circular), Section 12(d) of the NTTAA provides that an agency may use a governmentunique standard in lieu of a voluntary consensus standard if the use of a voluntary consensus
standard would be inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise impractical. In such cases,
the agency must file the statutorily required report (see Section 10).
e. Should my agency give preference to performance standards? Yes. Pursuant to Section
1(b)(8) of Executive Order 12866 and 19 U.S.C.§ 2532(3), your agency should give
preference to performance standards where feasible and appropriate. The term “performance
standard” refers to a standard that states requirements in terms of required results, but without
stating the methods for achieving the required results. A performance standard may define
the functional requirements for an item, operational requirements, and/or interface and
interchangeability characteristics. A prescriptive standard, by contrast, may specify design
requirements, such as materials to be used, how a requirement is to be achieved, or how an
item is to be fabricated or constructed. It is important to recognize that, in many instances, a
standard may contain both performance and prescriptive elements. In such cases, agencies
should select standards that provide the most flexibility for achieving the desired results. In
most instances, these will be standards that rely more heavily on performance-based criteria.
f. What factors should my agency consider to aid the determination of whether a standard
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is “reasonably available” in a regulatory or non-regulatory context? In determining
whether a standard is “reasonably available” to regulated and other interested parties,
agencies should take into account the following factors, given that reasonable availability is
context-specific. The absence of one or more of these factors alone should not be used as a
basis for an agency decision not to use the standard. This section shall also be applied in a
manner consistent with U.S. international obligations to use relevant international standards
(see Section 5h of the Circular); the “Principles of Regulation” (enumerated in Section 1(b)
of Executive Order 12866); and the need to “protect public health, welfare, safety, and our
environment while promoting economic growth, innovation, competitiveness, and job
creation” (see Section 1 of Executive Order 13563).
Factors to consider include:
(i)

whether the standards developer is willing to make read-only access to the standard
available for free on its website during the comment period to facilitate more effective
access, because access may be necessary during rulemaking to make public
participation in the rulemaking process effective;
(ii) the cost to regulated and other interested parties to access a copy of the material,
including the cumulative cost to obtain incorporated materials, and their ability to bear
the costs of accessing such materials in a particular context;
(iii) the extent particular access is needed to achieve agency policy or to subject the
effectiveness of agency programs to public scrutiny; and
(iv) whether the standards developer can provide a summary that explains the content of
the standard in a way that meets agency needs and is understandable to a member of
the public who lacks relevant technical expertise.
When considering incorporation by reference, agencies should include in the preamble of an
NPRM, final rule, or guidance document an explanation of the incorporated materials, and
how the agency’s incorporation by reference of the standard would further the agency’s
regulatory objective (see 79 FR 66267 published November 7, 2014 entitled Incorporation
by Reference).
If an agency incorporates by reference material that is already freely available, the agency
should ensure that the material is available electronically in a location where regulated and
other interested parties will be able to find it easily by, for example, providing a link to the
website of the standards body. If an agency incorporates by reference material that is
copyrighted or otherwise subject to legal protection and not freely available, the agency
should work with the relevant standards developer to promote the availability of the
materials, consistent with applicable law, such as through the use of technological solutions,
low-cost-publication, or other appropriate means, while respecting the copyright owner’s
interest in protecting its intellectual property. To this end, the agency should explain, in the
preamble of an NPRM, final rule, or guidance document how such incorporated standards
may be accessed consistent with OFR’s regulations in 1 CFR Part 51.

g. How should my agency reference standards? Where your agency seeks to incorporate a
standard by reference, your agency should reference the standard, along with sourcesfrom
21

which a copy of the standard may be obtained, in relevant publications, regulations, and
related internal documents. The Office of the Federal Register’s regulations at 1 CFR Part
51 govern the use of incorporation by reference in regulation. For all other uses, your
agency must determine the most appropriate form of reference. If a standard is used and
published in an agency document, your agency must observe and protect the rights of the
copyright holder and meet any other similar obligations, such as those relating to patented
technology that must be used to comply with the standard.
h. Are there standards-related international trade obligations that agencies must adhere to
regarding the use of standards? Yes. There are statutory and international obligations
governing “standards-related activities.” In particular, agencies should be aware of the
obligations in 19 U.S.C. § 2532, which provides that “[n]o Federal agency may engage in any
standards-related activity that creates unnecessary obstacles to the foreign commerce of the
United States…” and that “[e]ach Federal agency shall ensure, in applying standards-related
activities with respect to any imported product, that such product is treated no less favorably
than are like domestic or imported products…” “Standards-related activity” is defined in 19
U.S.C. § 2571 and covers certain standards and technical regulations as well as conformity
assessment procedures. These statutory requirements reflect U.S. international obligations
under the World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT
Agreement). Specifically, Articles 2.1 and 2.2 and Annex 3 of the Agreement commit the
United States, with respect to standards and technical regulations, to provide no less
favorable treatment to imported products than like domestic products and to avoid
unnecessary obstacles to trade.
In addition, the United States is obligated under the TBT Agreement to use relevant
international standards, except where such standards would be an ineffective or
inappropriate means to fulfill the legitimate objective pursued. In particular, the TBT
Agreement, Article 2.4, provides that: “Where technical regulations are required and
relevant international standards exist or their completion is imminent, [WTO] Members shall
use them, or the relevant parts of them, as a basis for their technical regulations except when
such international standards or relevant parts would be an ineffective or inappropriate means
for the fulfillment of the legitimate objectives pursued, for instance because of fundamental
climatic or geographical factors or fundamental technological problems.” In addition, 19
U.S.C. § 2532 directs Federal agencies, in developing standards, to base the standards on
international standards if appropriate.
The WTO TBT Agreement defines “technical regulation” as a document which sets out
product characteristics or their related processes and production methods, including
applicable administrative provisions, with which compliance is mandatory, and states that
the definition may include or deal exclusively with terminology, symbols, packaging,
marking or labeling requirements as they apply to a product, process, or production method.
The WTO TBT Agreement excludes services, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, and
government procurement from its scope. These areas are covered by other WTO agreements
discussed later in this section.
The WTO TBT Agreement does not provide a list of bodies that develop international
standards. However, in 2000, the WTO Committee on Technical Barriers to Trade adopted
22

a decision setting out principles that standards bodies should follow when developing
international standards (the Decision on Principles for the Development of International
Standards, Guides and Recommendations with Relation to Articles 2, 5 and Annex 3 of the
WTO Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade, hereinafter the Committee Decision).
Please see the annex to this Circular for additional information.
In addition, certain U.S. free trade agreements commit the United States to determine
whether an international standard exists based on the principles set out in the Committee
Decision. Agencies should, therefore, pay close attention to the Committee Decision and
consult with USTR when questions arise as to evaluating whether a standard developed by a
particular standards body is “international.” A voluntary consensus standard may be an
international standard under the WTO TBT Agreement or provisions of U.S. trade
agreements applying to technical barriers to trade, if it was developed in accordance with the
Committee Decision principles.
The WTO Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS
Agreement), which applies to sanitary and phytosanitary measures (e.g., food safety
regulations), also addresses the use of relevant international standards. Article 3.1 of the
WTO SPS Agreement states: “To harmonize sanitary and phytosanitary measures on as wide
a basis as possible, [WTO] Members shall base their sanitary or phytosanitary measures on
international standards, guidelines or recommendations, where they exist, except as
otherwise provided for in this Agreement, and in particular paragraph 3.” Article 3.3 of the
SPS Agreement also provides that:
Members may introduce or maintain sanitary or phytosanitary measures which result
in a higher level of sanitary or phytosanitary protection than would be achieved by
measures based on the relevant international standards, guidelines or
recommendations, if there is scientific justification, or as a consequence of the level
of sanitary or phytosanitary protection a Member determines to be appropriate in
accordance with the relevant provisions of paragraph 1 through 8 of Article 5.
Notwithstanding the above, all measures which result in a level of sanitary or
phytosanitary protection different from that which would be achieved by measures
based on international standards, guidelines or recommendations shall not be
inconsistent with any other provisions of this Agreement.
The WTO SPS Agreement includes a detailed definition of “sanitary or phytosanitary
measure” and generally covers measures related to food safety and the spread of disease or
pests. Unlike the WTO TBT Agreement, the WTO SPS Agreement identifies three bodies,
among others, that develop international standards, guidelines and recommendations for
purposes of implementing the WTO SPS Agreement. In particular, the SPS Agreement
identifies the following as international standards, guidelines and recommendations: for food
safety, those established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission; for animal health and
zoonoses, those developed under the auspices of the International Office of Epizootics; for
plant health, those developed in the framework of the International Plant Protection
Convention; and “for matters not covered by the above organizations, appropriate standards,
guidelines and recommendations promulgated by other relevant international organizations
open for membership to all [WTO] Members, as identified by the [SPS] Committee.”
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The United States also has procurement obligations under the WTO Agreement on
Government Procurement (GPA) and a number of Free Trade Agreements (see FAR Subpart
25.4) to base the technical specifications on international standards, where available. Article
X.2 of the WTO GPA provides:
In prescribing the technical specifications for the goods or services being procured, a
procuring entity shall, where appropriate:
(i)
(ii)

set out the technical specification in terms of performance and functional
requirements, rather than design or descriptive characteristics; and
base the technical specification on international standards, where such exist;
otherwise, on national technical regulations, recognized national standards or
building codes.

Agencies should consult with USTR on questions regarding international trade obligations
relating to regulations, standards, conformity assessment procedures, or procurement or with
respect to any requests from countries regarding the establishment of mutual arrangements
with respect to standards-related activities. Pursuant to 19 U.S.C. § 2171 and 2541, USTR
has statutory authorities and responsibilities in these areas including “for coordinating
United States discussions and negotiations with foreign countries for the purpose of
establishing mutual arrangements with respect to standards-related activities.” Agencies
should consult with the Department of State on questions regarding the application of
international agreements other than trade agreements.
i. When should my agency consider using or recognizing a standard used by a trading
partner? To the extent a standard used by a trading partner is an international standard or
voluntary consensus standard, agencies should consider and use them as described in this
Circular (see, e.g., Sections 5a and h). In addition, agencies should consider and use a
standard used by a trading partner, where, pursuant to an international agreement, the United
States has agreed to do so (e.g., pursuant to a mutual recognition agreement). Agencies
should also examine how recognition or use of a standard used by a trading partner would
impact the policy objectives set out in Section 1 of Executive Order 13609, “Promoting
International Regulatory Cooperation.” An agency may have additional obligations to
consider a standard used by a trading partner pursuant to Section 3(d) of Executive Order
13609.
In addition, the United States is obligated to adhere to certain international agreements with
respect to accepting as equivalent standards used in the regulations of U.S. trading partners.
In particular, the WTO TBT Agreement, Article 2.7, requires the United States and other
WTO Members to “give positive consideration to accepting as equivalent technical
regulations of other Members, even if these regulations differ from their own, provided they
are satisfied that these regulations adequately fulfill the objectives of their own regulations.”
The WTO SPS Agreement also contains obligations regarding equivalence determinations
with respect to foreign country sanitary and phytosanitary measures (SPS measures). Article
4 of the SPS Agreement provides:
24

(i) Members shall accept the sanitary or phytosanitary measures of other Members as
equivalent, even if these measures differ from their own or from those used by
other Members trading in the same product, if the exporting Member objectively
demonstrates to the importing Member that its measures achieve the importing
Member's appropriate level of sanitary or phytosanitary protection. For this
purpose, reasonable access shall be given, upon request, to the importing Member
for inspection, testing and other relevant procedures.
(ii) Members shall, upon request, enter into consultations with the aim of achieving
bilateral and multilateral agreements on recognition of the equivalence of
specified sanitary or phytosanitary measures. Agencies should consult with USTR
regarding entering into any such consultations.
U.S. Federal law, as codified at 19 U.S.C. § 2578a, provides that an agency may not
determine that a foreign country’s sanitary or phytosanitary measure is equivalent to a
sanitary or phytosanitary measure established under the authority of Federal law unless the
agency determines the foreign country measure provides the same level of sanitary or
phytosanitary protection as the U.S. measure.
See SPS Agreement, Annex A, for the definition of SPS measure.
j. How does this policy affect my agency's regulatory authorities and responsibilities?
This policy does not preempt or restrict agencies' authorities and responsibilities to make
regulatory decisions authorized by statute. Such regulatory authorities and responsibilities
include determining the level of acceptable risk and risk-management, and due care; setting
the level of protection; and balancing risk, cost, and availability of alternative approaches in
establishing regulatory requirements. However, agencies should consider using voluntary
consensus standards, as described in this Circular, to achieve their regulatory, procurement,
and program needs, including for test methods, sampling procedures, and protocols, if
applicable.
k. How does this policy affect my agency's procurement authority? This policy does not
preempt or restrict agencies’ authorities and responsibilities to identify the capabilities that
they need to obtain through procurements. Rather, this policy establishes a preference for
using a voluntary consensus standard, to the extent a suitable one exists, instead of pursuing
an identified capability through reliance on a government-unique standard.
l. What factors should my agency consider when determining whether to allow the use of
more than one standard? In considering whether to allow the use of more than one
standard for suppliers to demonstrate that they meet a particular program, procurement, or
regulatory requirement, your agency should consider whether doing so meets your agency’s
regulatory, procurement, or program needs (see, e.g., Section 5a). It may be appropriate for
the agency to allow the use of multiple standards in order, for example, to permit greater
flexibility for producers and service providers in meeting program, procurement, or
regulatory requirements, enhance competition in the marketplace, provide greater choice to
consumers, and enable new innovative solutions to be developed. Allowing the use of more
25

than one standard may also allow producers and service providers to meet both U.S.
requirements and requirements in different markets simultaneously, thereby reducing burdens
for manufacturers and service providers while effectively addressing agency objectives.
m. How should my agency ensure that references to standards incorporated in regulation
are updated on a timely basis? Consistent with Executive Orders 13563, “Improving
Regulation and Regulatory Review,” and 13610, “Identifying and Reducing Regulatory
Burdens,” agencies should, on a regular basis, review and if necessary update references to
standards that have been incorporated by reference. Each agency should undertake a
standards-specific review of such incorporated standards every three-to-five years, or when
stakeholders otherwise provide adequate information that a standards-specific review is
necessary due to urgent matters of health and safety, the need to remain current with
technological changes, or for other compelling reasons. For example, regulated entities may
petition agencies to update incorporated standards.
In accordance with the retrospective review provisions of Executive Orders 13563 and
13610, an agency should also consult with stakeholders prior to issuance of an NPRM, for
example through an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) or an RFI. Such
consultations will help the agency identify which updated or new standards would
potentially be controversial (if incorporated by reference in regulation) and which ones
would not, and also whether incorporation of new or updated standards may warrant
substantive changes to the underlying regulation.
(i)

In the case of standards for which updating or substituting a new standard or standards
would not be controversial, the agency should, to the extent permitted by law, consider
issuing a standards-specific direct final rule.

(ii)

In the case of other standards for which an agency may wish to update or substitute a
new standard or standards, the agency should publish a standards-specific NPRM.

(iii) To promote efficiency, and to the extent feasible and appropriate, an agency is
encouraged to consolidate proposals to update or substitute standards, rather than
conducting separate rulemakings for each standard the agency wants to update or
substitute.
(iv)

In the case of standards for which updating or substituting a new standard would
require a substantial re-opening of a rule, such revisions should be addressed in the
context of a broader-scope “look-back” NPRM (rather than through a standardsspecific NPRM), where such re-opening meets the objectives and criteria set out in
Executive Orders 13563 and 13610.

(v)

If an agency decides not to adopt the most recent version of a standard, the agency
should explain its reasons in the final rule.

(vi)

Except in urgent circumstances, and where consistent with law and international
obligations, agencies must allow a reasonable interval between the publication of final
rules and their effective dates, in order to provide affected stakeholders sufficient time
26

to adapt their products and methods of production to comply with the updated or new
standard.
6. What is the Policy for Federal Participation in Standards Bodies?
Consistent with Section 12(d)(2) of the NTTAA, agencies must consult with voluntary
consensus standards bodies and must participate with such bodies in the development of
standards when consultation and participation is in the public interest and is compatible with
their missions, authorities, priorities, and budgetary resources. In voluntary consensus standards
development processes, agency participation can be an important contribution to ensuring
balance is achieved.
The WTO TBT and SPS Agreements also contain obligations regarding participation in
international standards developing bodies:
(i)

(ii)

(iii)

TBT Agreement, Article 2.6: “With a view to harmonizing technical regulations on as
wide a basis as possible, Members shall play a full part, within the limits of their
resources, in the preparation by appropriate international standardizing bodies of
international standards for products for which they either have adopted, or expect to
adopt, technical regulations.”
TBT Agreement, Article 5.5: “With a view to harmonizing conformity assessment
procedures on as wide a basis as possible, Members shall play a full part, within the
limits of their resources, in the preparation by appropriate international standardizing
bodies of guides and recommendations for conformity assessment procedures.”
SPS Agreement, Article 3.4: “Members shall play a full part, within the limits of their
resources, in the relevant international organizations and their subsidiary bodies, in
particular the Codex Alimentarius Commission, the International Office of Epizootics,
and the international and regional organizations operating within the framework of the
International Plant Protection Convention, to promote within these organizations the
development and periodic review of standards, guidelines and recommendations with
respect to all aspects of sanitary and phytosanitary measures.”

Each agency should arrange for qualified representatives to participate in standards development
activities, as appropriate. The representatives’ function should be to participate in the standards
writing and/or, as appropriate, act as a liaison, provide information and expertise, and
communicate the views of the agency concerning the standards being developed and the
procedures being followed.
a. Must agency participants be authorized? Agency representatives who, at Government
expense, participate in activities of standards bodies on behalf of the agency must do so as
specifically authorized agency representatives. Agency support for, and participation by,
agency representatives in standards bodies must be in compliance with applicable laws and
regulations. For example, agency support is subject to legal and budgetary authority and
availability of funds. Similarly, participation by agency representatives (whether or not on
behalf of the agency) in the activities of standards bodies is subject to the laws and regulations
that apply to participation by Federal employees in the activities of outsideorganizations.
27

Additionally, in considering the applicability of 18 U.S.C. § 208, which addresses Federal
participation in outside organizations, the Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) of the Department of
Justice has determined the following: “When the board of an outside organization plays an
integral role in the process of setting standards, it would therefore frustrate the statute [NTTAA]
to forbid Federal employees from being on the board. They could not then take the “active” role
that Congress mandated. To carry out the statute, therefore, employees may serve on these
outside boards without running afoul of 18 U.S.C. § 208, if the boards are engaged in the
standard-setting activities in which Congress directed Federal agencies to participate.”5
Furthermore, in the 2001 amendment to the NTTAA (in Section 1115 of Public Law 107-107
(which enacted a new paragraph of Section 12(d)), Congress expressly exempted application of
5 U.S.C. § 5946 (which prohibits payments for membership and conference fees) with respect to
activities of Federal agencies and personnel in carrying out Section 12(d) of the NTTAA (see 15
U.S.C. § 272 note). As noted in the previous Section, active agency technical involvement and
leadership in standards activities is encouraged by this Circular and the NTTAA. However,
agency representatives should avoid the practice or the appearance of undue influence relating to
their participation in standards bodies and activities.
b. Does agency participation indicate endorsement of any decisions reached by standards
bodies? Agency participation in standards bodies does not connote agency endorsement or
agreement with decisions by such bodies.
c. What forms of support may my agency provide to standards development? The forms of
agency support may include:
(i)
(ii)

direct financial support (e.g., grants, memberships, and contracts);
administrative support (e.g., travel costs, hosting of meetings, and secretarial
functions);
(iii) technical support (e.g., cooperative testing for standards evaluation and participation of
agency personnel in the activities of standards bodies);
(iv) joint planning with standards bodies to promote identification and development of
needed standards; and
(v) participation of agency personnel.
Federal agencies should give adequate priority in their budgets to the need for agency
officials to participate in standards development.

d. Do agency representatives participate equally with other members? Consistent with agency
regulation and policy, agency representatives should participate actively and on an equal basis
with other members, consistent with the procedures of standards bodies, particularly in matters
such as establishing priorities, developing procedures for preparing, reviewing and approving
standards, and developing or adopting new standards. Active participation includes full
involvement in discussions and technical debates, registering of opinions and, if selected,
5

See OLC’s opinion of August 24, 1998, on “Application of § 208 to Service by Executive Branch Employees on
Boards of Standard-Setting Organizations,” http://oge.gov/DisplayTemplates/ModelSub.aspx?id=1826.

28

serving as chairpersons (or other leadership positions) or in other official capacities. Agency
representatives may vote, in accordance with the procedures of the standards body, at each stage
of the standards development process, unless prohibited from doing so by law or their agencies.
e. How should my agency alert the public of its potential participation in standards
development activities that could be used as a basis for rulemaking or other missionrelated activities? In the interest of enhancing transparency and information-sharing, agencies
should advise the public about ongoing or planned participation in standards development
activities, when, for instance, doing so to address issues of national priority, or in support of
significant regulatory action or international regulatory cooperation activities. Methods could
include publication of a notice in the Federal Register, providing notice on the agency’s public
website, or using other appropriate mechanisms. The information provided could include, for
example:
(i) which body or organization is developing the standard;
(ii) why the agency’s participation is relevant to the public; and
(iii) methods by which the public can obtain more information.
When an agency is unsure of the nature and extent of standards activity that may be relevant for
an upcoming regulation, procurement, or non-regulatory action, the agency is encouraged to
request information on standards development through, for example, an RFI or an ANPRM.
Agencies could also use more informal means, such as contacting relevant bodies directly.
Note that agency participation in the standards development process is not a prerequisite for
incorporating or otherwise using a standard.
f. What if a voluntary consensus standards body is likely to publish a suitable standard in
time for an agency to use it? If a voluntary consensus standards body is in the process of
developing or adopting a voluntary consensus standard that would likely be practical for an
agency to use, and would likely be developed or adopted on a timely basis, an agency should not
develop its own standard and instead should participate in the activities of the voluntary
consensus standards body (or at least monitor the development of the standard) so that the
agency is in a position to use the standard at the appropriate time.
7. What is the Policy on Conformity Assessment?
Section 12(b) of the NTTAA requires the NIST to coordinate Federal, State, and local standards
activities and conformity assessment activities with private sector standards development and
conformity assessment activities, with the goal of eliminating unnecessary duplication and
complexity in the development and promulgation of conformity assessment requirements and
measures. The Secretary of Commerce, through NIST, issues guidance to the agencies on
conformity assessment (see www.standards.gov).
Building upon the NTTAA, U.S. statutory and international obligations, and NIST’s previous
guidance to agencies on conformity assessment, agencies may develop and use conformity
assessments procedures that:
29

(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)

are effective and appropriate in carrying out agency missions;
minimize the regulatory and/or conformity assessment burden on regulated entities;
are in accordance with statutory and international obligations;
conserve and leverage agency resources; and
increase acceptance of U.S. products in domestic and foreign markets.

Agencies should be aware that conformity assessment procedures and systems can be used in
many different ways to support their missions. Conformity assessment procedures and systems
may be integral to a regulatory agency’s compliance and enforcement system, or the results of
conformity assessment may be an input to the regulatory system. The agency may have roles
and responsibilities related to the development and maintenance of conformity assessment
system requirements and/or the conduct of specific activities in these systems. Flexibility is
essential when devising an optimal conformity assessment system tailored to the missions of
regulatory agencies.
Agencies should also design conformity assessment programs with the objectives of furthering
outcomes that are closely aligned with market dynamics and otherwise maximize net benefits to
society. In this context, agencies should recognize the possible contribution of private sector
conformity assessment activities. When properly conducted, conformity assessments conducted
by private sector conformity assessment bodies can increase productivity and efficiency in
government and industry, expand opportunities for international trade, conserve resources, improve
health and safety, and protect the environment.
Working closely with NIST and OMB, agencies are encouraged to identify their conformity
assessment needs in such areas as regulatory compliance and enforcement, procurement, and
other programmatic contexts and to assess whether the use of private sector conformity
assessment mechanisms in lieu of or in conjunction with government conformity assessment
procedures would be beneficial, where such use is feasible and appropriate and not otherwise
prohibited by law. Agencies should also consider whether reliance on international conformity
assessment schemes would meet their conformity assessment needs.
Agencies will continue to have the flexibility of choosing conformity assessment programs,
whether private, public, or some combination thereof, to best achieve the objectives above.
a. What considerations should my agency make when it is addressing the need for
conformity assessment? Agencies should consider appropriate agency roles and
responsibilities to carry out their missions in a way that protects health, safety, welfare, and the
environment, while promoting economic growth, competitiveness, and job creation, and
reducing costs and burdens, including the cumulative effects of regulation, on the affected
public and the U.S. economy. When an agency is evaluating whether to put in place a
conformity assessment program, it should, consistent with statute, resource constraints, and the
instruments set out in Section 1 of this Circular, consider certain factors when assessing the
effectiveness of conformity assessment options and determining the type(s) of conformity
assessment to employ. These include:
(i)
(ii)

the objective(s) of the underlying regulation, procurement, or program activity;
the level of confidence required by the agency to ensure that the agencyobjective(s)
30

has/have been achieved, weighing the risk of non-compliance and its associated
consequences with the anticipated costs of demonstrating compliance (including time
and resources) to the producers, suppliers, consumers, and the agency;
(iii) whether there are existing private sector conformity assessment activities, acceptance
schemes or arrangements, that may work in conjunction with or, where appropriate, in
lieu of governmental conformity assessment activities, except where such activities
are inconsistent with law, unfit for regulatory or other agency purpose, or otherwise
impractical;
(iv) their consistency with statutory and international obligations;
(v) consideration of the available scientific and technical information, as relevant to the
selection of the appropriate conformity assessment program;
(vi) relevant industry practice and experience, and the industry’s history of compliance;
(vii) the need to reduce duplication and complexity, and ensure consistency and
coordination with the conformity assessment approaches of other agencies, where
feasible, appropriate, and consistent with law;6
(viii) the appropriateness of recognizing the results of private sector conformity assessment
programs being utilized in State, local, and/or foreign government regulation,
consistent with subsection (iii); and
(ix) the degree of transparency to stakeholders and the public of the conformity
assessment activity.
b. Are there statutory and international obligations concerning conformity assessment?
There are statutory and international obligations governing standards-related activities, which
include conformity assessment procedures. In particular, agencies should be aware of the
obligations in 19 U.S.C. § 2532, which provides that “[n]o Federal agency may engage in any
standards-related activity that creates unnecessary obstacles to the foreign commerce of the
United States…” and that “[e]ach Federal agency shall ensure, in applying standards-related
activities with respect to any imported product, that such product is treated no less favorably
than are like domestic or imported products…” Additionally, “[e]ach Federal agency shall, with
respect to any conformity assessment procedure used by it, permit access for obtaining an
assessment of conformity and the mark of the system, if any, to foreign suppliers of a product on
the same basis as access is permitted to suppliers of like products, whether of domestic or other
foreign origin.” 19 U.S.C. § 2532(4). Conformity assessment requirements and procedures are
also subject to the WTO TBT Agreement, which requires the United States to ensure it does not
prepare, adopt, or apply conformity assessment procedures with a view to, or with the effect of,
creating unnecessary obstacles to international trade. Articles 5 through 9 of the WTO TBT
Agreement set out detailed obligations on conformity assessment procedures falling within the
scope of the WTO TBT Agreement, including the need to use relevant guides or
recommendations issued by international standardizing bodies as a basis for conformity
assessment procedures, except where ineffective or inappropriate, and to ensure that the
conformity assessment procedures are not more strict or applied more strictly than necessary to
give adequate assurance that products conform to applicable “technical regulations” or
6

Pursuant to 15 C.F.R. § 287.1, your agency should work with NIST to “coordinate conformity assessment activities
with those of other appropriate government agencies and with those of the private sector to reduce unnecessary
duplication….This will help ensure more productive use of the increasingly limited Federal resources available to
conduct conformity assessment activities…” Consistent with 15 C.F.R. § 287.4, agencies should also “consider using
the results of other agencies’ conformity assessment procedures (see also Section 7e).”

31

standards, taking into account the risks non-conformity would create. Article 9.1 of the WTO
TBT Agreement provides:
Where a positive assurance of conformity with a technical regulation or standard is required,
Members shall, whenever practical, formulate and adopt international systems for
conformity assessment and become members thereof or participate therein.
The United States has also undertaken additional commitments on conformity assessment in
U.S. free trade agreements (FTA). These include a commitment not to discriminate against
conformity assessment bodies located in the territories of U.S. FTA partners when it comes to
accrediting, approving, licensing or otherwise recognizing conformity assessment bodies.
Agencies are urged to consult with USTR on questions regarding international obligations
regarding conformity assessment.
c. What obligations does my agency have when considering whether to use a conformity
assessment procedure used by a trading partner? Agencies should use voluntary consensus
standards and international guides and recommendations issued by international standardizing
bodies in their conformity assessment procedures, as described in this Circular, including where
such standards, guides and recommendations are used by a trading partner. In addition, Article
6.1 of the WTO TBT Agreement obligates the United States (and other WTO members) to
accept the results of conformity assessment procedures in other WTO member countries,
provided it is satisfied that those procedures offer an assurance of conformity equivalent to its
own procedures. U.S. free trade agreements may also have obligations with respect to
recognition of trading partners’ conformity assessment procedures. Agencies should consult
with USTR regarding compliance with these obligations. Agencies should consult with the
Department of State in the case of other international obligations or to consider what other
relevant international agreements may apply. Agencies should also examine how such use or
recognition would impact the policy objectives set out in Executive Order 13609, “Promoting
International Regulatory Cooperation.” An agency may have additional obligations to consider
such procedures under Section 3(d) of Executive Order 13609.
d.

How does this policy affect my agency's regulatory authorities and responsibilities? This
policy does not preempt or restrict agencies’ authorities and responsibilities to make regulatory
decisions authorized by statute.

e.

When should my agency utilize the retrospective review mechanism with respect to
conformity assessment? Pursuant to Executive Orders 13563, “Improving Regulation and
Regulatory Review,” and 13610, “Identifying and Reducing Regulatory Burdens,” and 15
C.F.R. § § 287.1 and 287.4, your agency should integrate meaningful review of its conformity
assessment activities into its retrospective review plans on a periodic basis. Consistent with the
NTTAA, this Circular (particularly Section 1), and NIST guidance, the review should evaluate
alternative approaches to ensure that current conformity assessment schemes are effective and
the burden on regulated entities is minimized.
Agencies are encouraged to consider joint rulemaking to reduce redundancy, complexity, and
the cumulative effects on the regulated public of needing to comply with different conformity
assessment procedures where (1) agencies have the same or similar requirements for
32

conformity assessment for the same product/service attributes and (2) demonstrating
compliance with one agency’s requirement is sufficient to demonstrate that a product or service
attribute conforms to other agencies’ requirements for the same product or service attribute.
Consistent with law and the need for agencies to maintain appropriate levels of protection, for
example, in regulations affecting health, safety, and the environment, agencies should engage
the regulated public and other stakeholders in public consultation as part of the retrospective
review process described above before initiating such rulemakings.
8. How will the U.S. Government Coordinate Regulatory Policy with Standards and
Conformity Assessment Policy?
The Interagency Committee on Standards Policy (ICSP) shall coordinate with the Trade Policy
Staff Committee (TPSC), its subcommittee on Technical Barriers to Trade, and the designees, or
“Seconds,” of the Regulatory Working Group (Working Group) created by Executive Order
12866, “Regulatory Planning and Review,” with a view to encouraging more strategic and
coordinated Federal participation in the development and use of standards and in conformity
assessment activities, in accordance with the objectives of the executive orders set out in Section
1 of this Circular. USTR has responsibility under 19 U.S.C. §§ 2171 and 2541 for coordinating
the consideration of international trade policy issues with respect to standards-related activities.
While a primary focus of this Circular is to encourage agency reliance on voluntary consensus
standards, OMB recognizes Federal agencies also participate in the development of other
standards with standards bodies that do not have all of the attributes described in Section 2(e),
as well as in regulatory collaboration initiatives and encourages such participation. Under
Section 2(a) of Executive Order 13609, “Promoting International Regulatory Cooperation,” and
subject to Section 6 of that order, the Working Group serves “as a forum to discuss, coordinate,
and develop a common understanding among agencies of U.S. Government positions and
priorities with respect to: (A) international regulatory cooperation activities that are reasonably
anticipated to lead to significant regulatory actions; . . .” Moreover, under Section 3(a) of
Executive Order 13609, “if required to submit a Regulatory Plan pursuant to Executive Order
12866, [each agency shall] include in that plan a summary of its international regulatory
cooperation activities that are reasonably anticipated to lead to significant regulations, with an
explanation of how these activities advance the purposes of Executive Order 13563 and
[Executive Order 13609].” Regular discussions between the Working Group Seconds and the
ICSP, as well as the TPSC, its subcommittee on Technical Barriers to Trade, and any other
relevant interagency groups or committees, will help to coordinate U.S. Government activities
relating to standards and conformity assessment, as well as regulation.
MANAGEMENT AND REPORTING OF STANDARDS USE
9. How Does My Agency Manage and Report on the Implementation of the Circular?
Your agency should establish a process to identify, manage, and review your agency's activities
pursuant to the guidance in this Circular. At minimum, your agency must have the ability to
provide to OMB, through NIST, (1) a report on the agency's use of government-unique standards
in lieu of voluntary consensus standards, along with an explanation of the reasons for such
33

usage, as required by Section 12(d) of the NTTAA and as described in Section 5c of this
Circular; and (2) a summary of your agency’s activities undertaken to carry out the provisions of
this Circular. The summary should contain a link to the agency’s standards-specific website(s)
where this information is available. This policy establishes two ways – category based reporting
and transaction based reporting – for agencies to manage and report their use of standards. Your
agency must report uses of government-unique standards in lieu of voluntary consensus
standards in one or both ways, pursuant to the following guidance.
As required by the NTTAA, your agency must report to NIST, no later than December 31 of
each year, the decisions by your agency in the previous fiscal year to use government-unique
standards in lieu of voluntary consensus standards. Your agency must include an explanation of
the reason(s) why use of such voluntary consensus standards would be inconsistent with
applicable law or otherwise impractical, as described in Sections 5c, 10a(ii), and 11b(ii) of this
Circular. Your agency must report in accordance with the instructions issued by NIST.
NIST must maintain the reports received on http://www.nist.gov/standardsgov/ and will report
the use of government-unique standards in lieu of voluntary consensus standards, along with the
agency’s explanations for such use, to OMB on an annual basis.
10. What are the Procedures for Reporting My Agency's Use of Standards in Regulations?
Your agency should use transaction based reporting – that is, report on each use of a
government-unique standard in lieu of a voluntary consensus standard – in your annual report to
NIST if your agency issues regulations that use or reference standards. If your agency is issuing
or revising a regulation that contains a standard, your agency should follow these procedures:
a. Publish in the preamble of rulemaking notices what steps the agency is taking to follow and
implement the Circular. Such information should include the following elements if
applicable:
(i)

When your agency is proposing or has decided to use a standard, provide a statement
which identifies such standard and any alternative standards which have been
identified.
(ii) When your agency is proposing or has decided to use a government-unique standard in
lieu of a voluntary consensus standard, provide a statement that identifies such
standards and provide an explanation for why using the voluntary consensus standard
would be inconsistent with law or otherwise impractical. Such explanation must be
also included in the annual report.
(iii) When your agency is proposing or has decided to use a government-unique standard
and has not identified a voluntary consensus standard, your agency should include a
statement to that effect in the preamble of the final rule or guidance document. For
other rulemaking notices, your agency should invite the public to identify any standard
and explain why your agency should use such a standard.

b. For significant regulatory actions, agencies are also encouraged to include in their
rulemaking notices a discussion in the regulatory preamble of the following elements:
34

(i)

which bodies or organizations the agency consulted with to determine whether there
are relevant standards in use in the marketplace (or completion of relevant standards is
imminent) or if standards that are currently incorporated by reference have been
revised;
(ii) whether agency officials are participating in the work of such bodies or organizations,
along with a description of their roles;
(iii) whether the agency has worked with relevant bodies or organizations to try to ensure
that the standards meet agency needs, and a description of the agency’s interactions
with the technical committees and/or technical advisory groups involved; and
(iv) whether the agency has coordinated its positions in technical advisory groups or
technical committees of such bodies or organizations with (1) other interested agencies
that are or should be participating in such work and, (2) where appropriate, foreign
regulatory agencies that are participating in such work, where the work is relevant to
regulatory cooperation council work plans described in Section 3(d) of Executive
Order 13609, “Promoting International Regulatory Cooperation.”
11. What are the Procedures for Reporting My Agency's Use of Standards in Procurements?
Your agency must report on either a categorical basis or on a transaction basis to identify,
manage, and review the standards used in your agency's procurements.
a. How does my agency report the use of standards in procurements on a categorical
basis? Your agency must use categorical based reporting when your agency identifies,
manages, and reviews the use of standards by group or category. Category based reporting
is especially useful when your agency either conducts large procurements or large numbers
of procurements using government-unique standards, or is involved in long-term
procurement contracts that require replacement parts based on government-unique
standards. To report use of government-unique standards on a categorical basis, your
agency must:
(i)

maintain a centralized standards management system that identifies how your agency
uses government-unique, voluntary consensus, and other standards;
(ii) systematically review your agency's use of government-unique standards for
conversion to voluntary consensus standards and, where appropriate, other standards;
(iii) maintain records on the groups or categories for which your agency uses governmentunique standards in lieu of voluntary consensus standards, including an explanation of
the reasons for such use, which must be transmitted according to Sections 5c and 9;
and
(iv) enable potential offerors to suggest voluntary consensus standards and, where
appropriate, other standards that can replace government-unique standards.
b. How does my agency report the use of standards in procurements on atransaction
basis? Your agency should report on a transaction basis when your agency identifies,
manages, and reviews the use of standards on a transaction basis rather than a category
basis. Transaction-based reporting is especially useful when your agency conducts
procurement involving mostlycommercial products and services, but is occasionally
35

involved in a procurement involving government-unique standards. To report use of
government-unique standards on a transaction basis, your agency must follow the following
procedures:
(i)

(ii)

in each solicitation that references government-unique standards, the solicitation must
identify such standards and provide potential offerors an opportunity to suggest
alternative voluntary consensus standards (or, where appropriate, other standards) that
meet the agency's requirements; and
if such suggestions are made and the agency decides to use government-unique
standards in lieu of voluntary consensus standards, the agency must explain in its
annual report to OMB through NIST, as described in Sections 5c and 9, why using
such voluntary consensus standards is inconsistent with applicable law or otherwise
impractical.

The requirements in this Section do not apply to those solicitations that are for: (1)
commercial-off-the-shelf products (COTS), (2) products or services that rely on voluntary
consensus standards or other standards, or (3) products that otherwise do not rely on
government-unique standards.

AGENCY RESPONSIBILITIES
12. What are the Responsibilities of the Secretary of Commerce?
The Secretary of Commerce:
a. coordinates and fosters executive branch implementation of this Circular and, as
appropriate, provides administrative guidance to assist agencies in implementing this
Circular, including guidance on identifying voluntary consensus standards bodies and
voluntary consensus standards;
b. sponsors and supports the ICSP, chaired by NIST, which considers agency views and
advises the Secretary and agency heads on the Circular;
c. reports to the Director of OMB concerning the implementation of the policy provisionsof
this Circular; and
d. issues guidance to the agencies to improve coordination on conformity assessment in
accordance with Section 7 of this Circular.
13. What are the Responsibilities of the Heads of Agencies?
The Heads of Agencies:
a. implement the policies of this Circular in accordance with the procedures described;
b. ensure agency compliance with the policies of the Circular is a top priority andimplement
appropriate organizational changes as necessary to achieve such compliance;
c. in the case of an agency that uses standards for regulatory, procurement, or other missionrelated activities, designate a senior level official as the Agency Standards Executivewho
36

will be responsible for the agency's implementation of this Circular, including the
responsibilities outlined in 15 C.F.R. 287.5; represent the agency on the ICSP; and be
situated in the agency’s organizational structure such that he or she is kept regularly apprised
of the agency’s regulatory, procurement, and other mission-related activities and has
sufficient authority within the agency to ensure compliance with the Circular; and
d. transmit the annual report prepared by the Agency Standards Executive as described in
Section 9 of this Circular.
14. What are the Qualifications and Responsibilities of Agency Standards Executives?
An Agency Standards Executive, consistent with applicable law:
a. Should be a senior level official; have demonstrated knowledge of, and experience in, the
areas of standards, standardization processes and procedures, and conformity assessment; be
broadly engaged in the agency’s standards and conformity assessment related activities so as
to ensure intra-agency coordination; and be broadly familiar with how the agency uses
standards and conformity assessment in its mission and how it participates in activities of
standards bodies and conformity assessment systems, including international systems of
conformity assessment.
b. Promotes the following goals in the context of agency participation in the work of standards
bodies and in conformity assessment activities:
(i)
(ii)

effective use of agency resources and participation in standards bodies;
the development of agency positions that are in the public interest and are coordinated
across units;
(iii) the development of agency positions that are consistent with Administration policy;
(iv) the development of agency technical and policy positions that are clearly defined and
coordinated with other Federal participants in a given standards activity; and
(v) the development of agency policies on conformity assessment to implement the
provisions of Section 7 of this Circular, consistent with 15 C.F.R. § 287.
c. Coordinates the agency’s participation in standards bodies by:
(i)

establishing procedures to ensure that agency representatives who participate in
standards bodies will, to the extent possible, ascertain the views of the agency on
matters of paramount interest and express views and positions that are not inconsistent
or in conflict with established agency views and positions;
(ii) consulting other relevant agencies, as appropriate, to avoid to the extent practicable
expressing views or positions in standards bodies that are inconsistent or in conflict
with established views or positions of such other agencies;
(iii) ensuring that the agency's participation in standards bodies is consistent with agency
missions, authorities, priorities, and budget resources;
(iv) coordinating with standards bodies, and notifying such bodies when the agency has
incorporated their standards by reference in regulation;
(v) ensuring, when two or more agencies participate in a given standards activity, that they
coordinate their views on matters of paramount importance so as to present, whenever
37

(vi)
(vii)

(viii)

(ix)
(x)

(xi)

(xii)
(xiii)

feasible, a single, unified position and, where not feasible, a mutual recognition of
differences;
cooperating with the head of the agency or his or her designee in carrying out his or
her responsibilities under this Circular;
consulting with the head of the agency or his or her designee, as necessary, in the
development and issuance of internal agency procedures and guidance implementing
this Circular;
preparing, as described in Sections 9 through 11 of this Circular, a report on uses of
government-unique standards in lieu of voluntary consensus standards, and a report
on the status of agency standards policy activities;
establishing a process for ongoing review of the agency’s use of standards for
purposes of updating or substituting, pursuant to Section 5m;
coordinating with appropriate agency offices (e.g., budget and legal offices) to ensure
that effective processes exist for the review of proposed agency support for, and
participation in, standards bodies, so that agency support and participation will comply
with applicable laws and regulations;
making agency employees aware of available standards training opportunities and
providing training (consistent with an agency’s budgetary and other considerations) for
agency employees participating in standards and conformity assessment activities so
that participation is effective, efficient, and in keeping with the rules of the
organizations in which they are participating;
providing ongoing assistance and policy guidance to agency employees and managers
on significant issues in standardization and conformity assessment; and
coordinating with the TPSC TBT Subcommittee or other relevant TPSC
subcommittees on the trade implications of standardization.

d. Ensures that agency rulemaking, procurement, and other programmatic activities are
consistent with this Circular by, for example:
(i)

providing ongoing assistance, training, and policy guidance to agency employees and
managers on the Circular;
(ii) being engaged in the development of the agency’s rulemakings, procurements,and
other programmatic activities that have a standards and/or conformity assessment
component and providing advice on compliance with the Circular; and
(iii) participating in the ICSP and consulting on a regular basis with NIST, other Agency
Standards Executives, USTR (and, if applicable, your agency’s representatives to the
relevant subcommittee of the TPSC), and the desk officer for your agency in OMB’s
OIRA.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
15. When Will This Circular Be Reviewed?
This Circular will be reviewed for effectiveness no later than five years from the date of
issuance.
38

16. What Is the Legal Effect of This Circular?
This Circular is not intended to delay the administrative process, and this Circular does not
provide new grounds for judicial review, or create new rights or benefits, substantive or
procedural, enforceable at law or equity by a party against the United States, its agencies or
instrumentalities, or its officers or employees. Authority for this Circular is based on 31 U.S.C.
§ 1111, which gives OMB broad authority to establish policies for the improved managementof
the Executive Branch. This Circular is intended to implement section 12(d) of the NTTAA(15
U.S.C. § 272 note) and other instruments set out in Section 1 of the Circular; establish policies
that will improve the internal management of the Executive Branch; and, in so doing, improve
regulatory and other policy outcomes.
17. Do You Have Further Questions?
For information concerning this Circular, contact the Office of Management and Budget, Office
of Information and Regulatory Affairs at [email protected].

39

ANNEX A

Decision Of The Committee On Principles For The Development Of International
Standards, Guides And Recommendations With Relation To Articles 2, 5 And Annex3
Of The Agreement
Decision7
The following principles and procedures should be observed, when international standards, guides
and recommendations (as mentioned under Articles 2, 5 and Annex 3 of the TBT Agreement for the
preparation of mandatory technical regulations, conformity assessment procedures and voluntary
standards) are elaborated, to ensure transparency, openness, impartiality and consensus,
effectiveness and relevance, coherence, and to address the concerns of developing countries.
The same principles should also be observed when technical work or a part of the international
standard development is delegated under agreements or contracts by international standardizing
bodies to other relevant organizations, including regional bodies.
Transparency
All essential information regarding current work programmes, as well as on proposals for standards,
guides and recommendations under consideration and on the final results should be made easily
accessible to at least all interested parties in the territories of at least all WTO Members. Procedures
should be established so that adequate time and opportunities are provided for written comments.
The information on these procedures should be effectively disseminated.
In providing the essential information, the transparency procedures should, at a minimum, include:
(a) The publication of a notice at an early appropriate stage, in such a manner as to enable
interested parties to become acquainted with it, that the international standardizing body
proposes to develop a particular standard;
(b) The notification or other communication through established mechanisms to
members of the international standardizing body, providing a brief description of the
scope of the draft standard, including its objective and rationale. Such
communications shall take place at an early appropriate stage, when amendments can
still be introduced and comments taken into account;
(c) Upon request, the prompt provision to members of the international standardizing body
of the text of the draft standard;
(d) The provision of an adequate period of time for interested parties in the territory of at
least all members of the international standardizing body to make comments in writing
7

G/TBT/9, 13 November 2000, para. 20 and Annex 4.
40

and take these written comments into account in the further consideration of the
standard;
(e) The prompt publication of a standard upon adoption; and
(f) To publish periodically a work programme containing information on the standards
currently being prepared and adopted.
It is recognized that the publication and communication of notices, notifications, draft standards,
comments, adopted standards or work programmes electronically, via the Internet, where feasible,
can provide a useful means of ensuring the timely provision of information. At the same time, it is
also recognized that the requisite technical means may not be available in some cases, particularly
with regard to developing countries. Accordingly, it is important that procedures are in place to
enable hard copies of such documents to be made available upon request.
Openness
Membership of an international standardizing body should be open on a non- discriminatory basis to
relevant bodies of at least all WTO Members. This would include openness without discrimination
with respect to the participation at the policy development level and at every stage of standards
development, such as the:
(a) Proposal and acceptance of new work items;
(b) Technical discussion on proposals;
(c) Submission of comments on drafts in order that they can be taken into account;
(d) Reviewing existing standards;
(e) Voting and adoption of standards; and
(f) Dissemination of the adopted standards.
Any interested member of the international standardizing body, including especially
developing country Members, with an interest in a specific standardization activity shouldbe
provided with meaningful opportunities to participate at all stages of standard development. It is
noted that with respect to standardizing bodies within the territory of a WTO Member that have
accepted the Code of Good Practice for the Preparation, Adoption and Application of Standards by
Standardizing Bodies (Annex 3 of the TBT Agreement) participation in a particular international
standardization activity takes place, wherever possible, through one delegation representing all
standardizing bodies in the territory that have adopted, or expected to adopt, standards for the
subject-matter to which the international standardization activity relates. This is illustrative of the
importance of participation in the international standardizing process accommodating all relevant
interests.
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Impartiality and Consensus
All relevant bodies of WTO Members should be provided with meaningful opportunities to
contribute to the elaboration of an international standard so that the standard development process
will not give privilege to, or favour the interests of, a particular supplier/s, country/ies or region/s.
Consensus procedures should be established that seek to take into account the views of all parties
concerned and to reconcile any conflicting arguments.
Impartiality should be accorded throughout all the standards development process with respect to,
among other things:
(a) Access to participation in work;
(b) Submission of comments on drafts;
(c) Consideration of views expressed and comments made;
(d) Decision-making through consensus;
(e) Obtaining of information and documents;
(f) Dissemination of the international standard;
(g) Fees charged for documents;
(h) Right to transpose the international standard into a regional or national standard; and
(i) Revision of the international standard.
Effectiveness and Relevance
In order to serve the interests of the WTO membership in facilitating international trade and
preventing unnecessary trade barriers, international standards need to be relevant and to effectively
respond to regulatory and market needs, as well as scientific and technological developments in
various countries. They should not distort the global market, have adverse effects on fair
competition, or stifle innovation and technological development. In addition, they should not give
preference to the characteristics or requirements of specific countries or regions when different
needs or interests exist in other countries or regions. Whenever possible, international standards
should be performance based rather than based on design or descriptive characteristics.
Accordingly, it is important that international standardizing bodies:
(a) Take account of relevant regulatory or market needs, as feasible and appropriate, as well
as scientific and technological developments in the elaboration of standards;
(b) Put in place procedures aimed at identifying and reviewing standards that have become
obsolete, inappropriate or ineffective for various reasons; and
(c) Put in place procedures aimed at improving communication with the World Trade
42

Organization.
Coherence
In order to avoid the development of conflicting international standards, it is important that
international standardizing bodies avoid duplication of, or overlap with, the work of other
international standardizing bodies. In this respect, cooperation and coordination with other relevant
international bodies is essential.
Development Dimension
Constraints on developing countries, in particular, to effectively participate in standards
development, should be taken into consideration in the standards development process. Tangible
ways of facilitating developing countries' participation in international standards development
should be sought. The impartiality and openness of any international standardization process
requires that developing countries are not excluded de facto from the process. With respect to
improving participation by developing countries, it may be appropriate to use technical assistance,
in line with Article 11 of the TBT Agreement. Provisions for capacity building and technical
assistance within international standardizing bodies are important in this context.

43