Surplus Law and Legal Definition
Surplus is a term that is subject to different definitions. In a broad sense, it means an excess of something. In the context of personal property, there are federal and state laws governing the dosposition of surplus government property. The main federal law controlling the procurement, management, distribution, and disposal of all government property is the “Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949”, as amended.
Amonfg other provisions, Section 203 of the Act:
- Requires that all distribution of donated surplus be made though a "State Agency for Surplus Property."
- Names the types of eligible donees.
- Places the Donation Program under the supervision of the U.S. General Services Administration.
- Requires the U.S. General Services Administration to strictly regulate and supervise "State Agencies for Surplus Property".
These regulations require the state agency to submit a “State Plan of Operation”. This plan must be acceptable to the General Services Administration and must be adhered to until they authorize changes.
