§7462 Support of Athletic Programs

Summary

Lets the Secretary of the Army make contracts and cooperative agreements with the Army West Point Athletic Association to support West Point’s sports programs. The Secretary can award those contracts without competitive bidding when allowed, and such agreements can buy property or services for the Academy. Contracts must include proper financial controls and accepted accounting. The Army can review the Association’s books to make sure the deal is followed and that nothing harms the integrity or appearance of the Army’s programs. Leases for athletics are not subject to the normal federal lease rule in section 2667(h). The Army may also provide certain support services when a contract requires them and the Secretary decides they are essential. Support can include utilities, office furniture and equipment, communications, records, audio/video, security systems tied to leases or licenses, housing for Association staff on West Point garrison, and school enrollment for their dependents (school costs are reimbursable). The United States has no liability for those services. The Secretary may accept money, supplies, and services from the Association and from the NCAA to support athletics, but Association personnel are not federal employees. Licensing and sponsorship of Academy trademarks can be allowed with the Secretary’s approval if they do not harm the Army’s integrity. Funds received can be kept and used for Academy athletics until spent. The authority applies only while the Association remains a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and works only to support Academy athletics. The Association named here is the Army West Point Athletic Association.