Protest of Procuring Agency's Determination of Nonresponsibility Resulting from Poor Performance

Protest was made to the rejection of company's bid submitted in response to a solicitation issued by the Federal Supply Service for 1 year's requirements for ball-point-pen refills. Low bid was rejected because of a finding of nonresponsibility resulting from poor performance on the contract for the previous year. The question of responsibility is a matter primarily for determination by the procuring agency. GSA's determination of nonresponsibility, based on delinquent delivery records, was a reasonable basis for the decision. Because the estimated value of the procurement was under $10,000, the contracting officer elected not to refer the matter to the SBA. The protest was denied. (SW)