Disaster Purchasing is a federal program that allows authorized government entities to purchase products and services from GSA Schedule contractors specifically for disaster preparation, response, and recovery. Established under the authority of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, this program extends GSA purchasing capabilities beyond standard federal agencies to include state, local, tribal, and territorial governments for emergency-related needs.
Disaster Purchasing is designed to provide streamlined access to commercial products and services that support public safety, disaster mitigation, continuity of operations, and emergency relief efforts.
Purpose of the Program
The primary goal of the Disaster Purchasing program is to ensure that government entities at all levels can quickly and effectively obtain mission-critical supplies and services in response to declared emergencies and natural disasters. The program supports:
- Pre-positioning supplies for disaster readiness
- Immediate response efforts during a declared emergency
- Long-term recovery operations following disasters
- Continuity of government and infrastructure restoration
By using the GSA Schedule, buyers can access pre-negotiated pricing, simplified ordering procedures, and a trusted pool of vetted contractors.
Who Can Use the Program
The following entities are authorized to make purchases through Disaster Purchasing:
- Federal agencies under the Stafford Act or related emergency declarations
- State and local governments, including public authorities and educational institutions
- Tribal and territorial governments
- First responders, emergency management offices, and public safety departments
These entities must be purchasing in direct support of disaster-related activities. General procurement unrelated to emergency planning or response is not authorized under this program.
GSA Schedules Eligible for Disaster Purchasing
Most offerings under the GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) are eligible for Disaster Purchasing. Contractors must specifically opt in to participate in the program by indicating their acceptance in their contract profile. Eligible items may include:
- Emergency medical equipment and supplies
- Temporary housing and portable infrastructure
- Power generation and electrical services
- Communication systems
- Safety and rescue tools
- Logistics and transportation support
- IT systems for disaster coordination
- Cleaning, sanitation, and environmental services
Each product or service must fall under an awarded SIN that the contractor has made available for Disaster Purchasing.
Purchasing Process
Purchases under the Disaster Purchasing program are conducted much like any GSA Schedule order, with a few distinctions:
- Verification: The buyer must be an authorized entity procuring for a disaster-related purpose
- Vendor Participation: The vendor must have agreed to participate in Disaster Purchasing
- Ordering Mechanism: Purchases can be made through GSA Advantage, eBuy, or directly with the contractor
- Terms and Conditions: Orders are subject to the terms of the GSA Schedule, including pricing, delivery, and payment terms
There are no additional fees, and the use of the GSA Schedule ensures compliance with federal procurement standards.
Benefits of Disaster Purchasing
This program offers several significant advantages for both buyers and contractors:
- Rapid procurement during time-sensitive emergency situations
- Access to pre-vetted vendors with established pricing and performance histories
- Reduced administrative burden compared to traditional competitive bids
- Support for local and regional governments responding to federally declared disasters
- Opportunity for contractors to expand sales to non-federal customers during emergencies
By simplifying the acquisition process, Disaster Purchasing helps agencies respond more effectively while maintaining accountability and transparency.
Contractor Requirements
To participate in the Disaster Purchasing program, contractors must:
- Be an active GSA Schedule holder
- Opt in to the program through a formal modification (typically via eMod)
- Ensure that all catalog items available for disaster response are clearly indicated
- Be prepared to fulfill orders quickly and reliably under emergency conditions
Contractors should also be familiar with applicable laws such as the Stafford Act and be prepared for high-volume or expedited order fulfillment in response scenarios.
Compliance Considerations
Orders placed under Disaster Purchasing must still comply with the Trade Agreements Act (TAA), Buy American Act (when applicable), and other relevant procurement rules. Buyers are responsible for ensuring their purchases are aligned with the declared emergency’s scope and authority.
Contractors must track these orders accurately and ensure they are properly reported as GSA Schedule sales.
Conclusion
Disaster Purchasing is a critical program that expands the reach and responsiveness of GSA Schedule contracts during emergency situations. By enabling federal, state, local, and tribal entities to procure essential goods and services quickly and efficiently, the program strengthens the national capacity for disaster response and recovery. For contractors, participation opens up new sales channels while contributing directly to public safety and emergency resilience.
