MCO 5720.74 — Department Of Defense Newspapers, Magazines And Civilian Publications

MCO 5720.74 governs authorized DoD newspapers, magazines, guides, and installation maps under the DoD Internal Information Program.

Search MCO 5720.74

  • Publication number: MCO 5720.74
  • Title: DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE NEWSPAPERS, MAGAZINES AND CIVILIAN PUBLICATIONS
  • Date: 25 Nov 1997
  • Proponent: 05000 General Admin & Management
  • Status: New

View MCO 5720.74 on armypubs.army.mil


MCO 5720.74 establishes editorial standards, publication disclaimers, political content restrictions, and rules for commercial news sources. It also sets requirements for Civilian Enterprise contracts, source selection, proposal evaluation, and biennial review of newspapers and magazines.

Applies to: This order is applicable to the Marine Corps Reserves.

Topics covered

  • DoD newspapers and magazines
  • Civilian Enterprise publications
  • Installation maps
  • Editorial content standards
  • Political campaign coverage
  • CE contracting
  • Source selection procedures
  • Publication review system

Questions and answers

How often must DoD newspapers and magazines be reviewed?

DoD newspapers and magazines shall be reviewed and reported biennially. (paragraph 5)

How many voting members must an SSAC have?

The SSAC shall consist of a minimum of five voting members: a chairperson, who shall be a senior member of the command; senior representatives from public affairs and printing; and a minimum of two other functional specialists with skills relevant to the selection process. (paragraph 8)

How long can a CE publisher contract last with options?

The total duration of this contract, including the exercise of any options under this clause, shall not exceed 6 years. (paragraph 4)

What must be completed before proposals are received for a CE publication contract?

A SSP (see sample SSP at attachment 1 to this enclosure) must be developed early in the planning process to serve as a guide for the personnel involved and ensure a fair and objective process and a successful outcome. The contracting officer is primarily responsible for development of the SSP, in coordination with the PAO and other members of the SSAC. Ideally, the SSP should be completed and approved before issuance of the solicitation; it must be completed and approved before the receipt of proposals. (paragraph 9)

What does the SSAC use when making its source recommendation?

Since cost is not a factor in the evaluation, award will be based on technical proposals, the offeror’s experience and/or qualifications, and past performance. (paragraph 8)

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