What are "Inherently Governmental Functions"?

Inherently governmental functions refer to those tasks that are so intimately related to the public interest that they must be performed by government employees. This concept is fundamental in the context of federal contracting and acquisition because it ensures that key governmental responsibilities, which affect national policy, service delivery, and the welfare of the public, remain under the direct control of government personnel.

These functions typically include critical responsibilities such as overseeing and directing government operations, fiduciary duties, and making decisions about the distribution of federal funds. By designating certain functions as inherently governmental, the government aims to maintain accountability, reduce the potential for conflicts of interest, and safeguard sensitive governmental activities from being improperly influenced by private entities.

The other options do not align with the definition of inherently governmental functions. Outsourcing options or public-private partnerships do not encompass the core responsibilities that are mandated to be performed by government employees, whereas functions related to federal funding can include a range of activities, not all of which are inherently governmental.