Note: This is an external directive and is not numbered by the internal directives numbering system.
1. Purpose. The purpose of this Order is to ensure lease delegations of authority to other Federal agencies previously set forth in the Federal Management Regulation (FMR) continue following rescission of that regulation.
2. Background. Under the recently rescinded Federal Management Regulation (FMR) sections, GSA had delegated certain leasing authorities of the Administrator, including the authority to lease space up to 20 years and the authority to annually obligate lease payments, to other executive agencies. These delegations were intended to provide greater flexibility and efficiency in meeting the space requirements of federal agencies, particularly for routine or time-sensitive leasing actions. By empowering external entities with limited leasing authority, GSA sought to streamline decision-making, reduce administrative burden, and ensure timely delivery of mission-critical space solutions. However, these delegations also require robust oversight to maintain compliance with federal regulations, protect taxpayer interests, and ensure consistency with GSA’s strategic portfolio management objectives.
Lease delegations were categorized as either General Purpose, Categorical or Special Purpose. Categorical and special purpose delegations were types of standing delegations whereby an agency could use GSA’s delegated authorities without first receiving approval from GSA. Agencies utilizing the Categorical or Special Purpose delegations were still required to comply with certain conditions outlined by GSA. Categorical delegations were previously found at FMR 102-73.145-155 and Special Purpose delegations were found at FMR 102-73.160-225.
3. Delegations. Pursuant to 40 U.S.C. §§ 121(d) and 585(a), the Administrator hereby delegates the authorities set forth herein. Unless otherwise specified, delegations are to the heads of agencies.
4. Limitations. Federal agencies must exercise delegated lease property authority and functions in accordance with applicable laws and the parameters of the specific authority delegated. Agencies must follow the Lease Delegations Procedural Document for specifics on executing the delegated authority.
5. Additional Delegations. This Order does not impact any prior delegation of authority still in effect. Additional authorities may be delegated on an as-needed basis.
6. Policy Amendments. GSA reserves the right to revise, amend, or otherwise update any policies related to the Leased Delegation Program, including changes required to comply with future updates to OMB guidance, Executive Orders, or other applicable federal directives.