Which of the following is true regarding contract clearance in noncompetitive procurement?

In noncompetitive procurement, the concept of contract clearance plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with regulatory and procedural requirements. The correct assertion indicates that contract clearance can be waived at the time of business clearance. This means that, under certain circumstances, the requirements for contract clearance might not need to be fulfilled before moving forward, as long as proper business clearance has been obtained.

This flexibility can be essential in scenarios where timely procurement is critical. The ability to waive this requirement allows for a more efficient process by eliminating potential delays that could arise from a lengthy contract clearance process.

The other choices highlight points that are either not correct or mischaracterize the nature of contract clearance. For instance, while contract clearance is indeed linked to standards and compliance needed before a contract is finalized, it does not necessarily need to occur before negotiations start, as implied in one option. Additionally, equating contract clearance with business clearance fails to recognize their distinct purposes in the procurement process. Lastly, suggesting that contract clearance must be completed after negotiations contradicts the timing and procedural integrity required within these processes, as it implies a lack of necessary approvals prior to finalizing the contract terms.