[Code of Federal Regulations] [Title 48, Volume 4] [Revised as of October 1, 2006] From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access [CITE: 48CFR315.371] [Page 38-39] TITLE 48--FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATIONS SYSTEM CHAPTER 3--HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES PART 315_CONTRACTING BY NEGOTIATION--Table of Contents Subpart 315.3_Source Selection Sec. 315.371 Contract preparation and award. (a) The contracting officer must perform the following actions after finalization details have been completed: (1) Prepare the negotiation memorandum in accordance with 315.372; (2) Prepare the contract containing all agreed to terms and conditions and clauses required by law or regulation; (3) Include in the contract file the pertinent documents referenced in FAR 4.803; and (4) Obtain the appropriate approval of the proposed contract award(s) in accordance with subpart 304.71 and contracting activity procedures. (b) After receiving the required approvals, the contract should be transmitted to the prospective contractor for signature. The prospective contractor must be informed that the contract is not effective until accepted by the contracting officer. [[Page 39]] (c) The contract shall not be issued until the finance office certifies that the funds are available for obligation.