[Query Concerning Propriety of Accepting Bid]

The National Mediation Board (NMB) requested an advance decision as to whether it may lawfully accept the low bid for reporting and furnishing transcripts of oral hearings of Emergency Boards, Boards of Arbitration, and NMB. Because the firm offered to furnish original transcripts to the Government at no charge, it was the low bidder. GAO held that the low bidder was responsive, but that the solicitation was deficient because of its failure to include estimates for additional copies. No remedial action was recommended. Accordingly, NMB may properly accept the bid.