48 CFR §970.3501-3

1. (a)All Department of Energy sponsored FFRDC's are operated by management and operating contractors.
2. (b)Coincident with the review required by 48 CFR 17.605(b) and 970.1706-1(b) regarding the decision to extend or compete a management and operating contract, the contracting officer shall, in accordance with internal Departmental procedures:
   1. (1)Conduct the review required by 48 CFR 35.017-4 concerning the use and need for the FFRDC; and
   2. (2)Recommend for Secretarial approval, the continuation or termination of the Department's sponsorship of an FFRDC at the time authorization is required to extend or compete a management and operating contract.