Chapter 14 - Prohibited and Restricted Purchases
a. Cardholders are presented with requests to buy a wide variety of items and services, and it can be difficult for CHs to determine whether the requested purchase is authorized. This chapter describes the characteristics of an authorized purchase; identifies items and services that are prohibited and restricted from purchase; and the exceptions under which they are allowable.
b. Cardholders must contact their A/OPC or other local authority (e.g., legal advisor, HCA, or resource manager) before making purchases that seem questionable or have the appearance of being inappropriate. When buying questionable items or services, CHs must include approval documentation in the purchase file.
c. All exceptions must be on a per transaction basis after consultation with the A/OPC, legal counsel, HCA, SCO, CCO, or resource manager. Multiple requests for the same exception must be approved by the Level 3 or 4 A/OPC responsible for issuing the GPC accounts. There may be exceptions to the guidance in this section. For example, the armed escort of prisoners may be a legitimate use of the GPC even though “escort services” qualify as a prohibited transaction. CHs must include the results of their consultations and determination to use the GPC in this manner with their transaction supporting data.