With the exception of termination settlements subject to Part 749, Termination of Contracts, contracting officers shall have the authority to negotiate and enter into settlements with contractors for costs questioned under audit reports, or to issue a contracting officer’s final decision pursuant to the disputes clause (in the event that questioned costs are not settled by negotiated agreement) in accordance with ADS Chapter 591.5.20. The negotiated settlement or final decision shall be final, subject only to a contractor’s appeal, either under the provisions of the Contract Disputes Act of 1978, as amended (41 U.S.C. 601-613), or to the courts. Policies and procedures for resolving audit recommendations are in accordance with ADS Chapters 591 and 592.
