New Procedure For Submitting Bid Protests Coming in May 2018
The Government Accountability Office (“GAO”) recently announced its plan to launch its web-based electronic bid protest filing and dissemination system (“EPDS”). EPDS is a secure web portal where contractors will be required to submit all bid protests beginning May 1, 2018. GAO says the new web-based system will make the bid protest process more efficient and transparent. Relevant agencies and contractors will receive an alert when a protest is submitted and will then be able to follow along through the process. Another change coming with the new submittal process is the $350 filing fee that will be required to help pay for the system’s operation and management. GAO noted it paid special attention to cyber security matters when creating the system, although protests that include classified material are excluded from the new electronic submittal requirement.
Prior to the full release on May 1, GAO will designate several protests filed after February 1 to be a part of the pilot program and utilize the new system. If GAO selects a protest for the pilot program, the contractor will be notified and given instructions on how to use EPDS. The GAO website also contains reference materials to help contractors learn about the new system.
Call General Counsel PC Today
Attorneys at General Counsel, P.C. are staying up to date on information about the new system. Our attorneys are experts in all bid protest matters and are experienced in assisting government contractors across Virginia, specifically in Fairfax County, Arlington, Loudoun County, and Prince William. Whether you want help understanding the new EPDS system or just want assistance through the bid protest process, call General Counsel, P.C. at 703-556-0411 today to see how we can help you.