The firm successfully protested the VA’s solicitation for the upgrade and renovations at the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System before the GAO. Since early 2006, the VA has been incorporating Information Letter (IL) 049-06-4 into all of its solicitations. However, this IL conflicts with the Veterans First Contracting Program enacted in December 2006. The firm challenged the inclusion of the IL on this Los Angeles project, arguing that the IL jeopardized open and fair competition, and discouraged participation by legitimate veteran owned small businesses. Promptly following receipt of the firm’s protest, the VA took corrective action by cancelling the solicitation so that the project could be re-solicited without reference to the conflicting and superseded information letter. SDVOSB and VOSB enterprises should consult with legal counsel with any questions as to the VA’s implementation of these important programs which must be protected for the benefit of our veterans.
GAO File No. B-407092
Counsel: David S. Demian and Christopher R. Sillari