[Proposed Amendments to Parts 1-1 and 1-4 of Federal Procurement Regulations]

Comments were requested on proposed amendments to Federal Procurement Regulations concerning the procurement of automatic data processing equipment (ADPE). GAO believes that the language of the regulation should be changed to more clearly differentiate ADPE from office automation equipment. GAO also believes that the description of mini and micro computers is too broad in the proposed legislation. In addition, GAO believes that requirements for agencies to submit copies of ADPE solicitation documents, contracts, and contract modifications to the General Services Administration (GSA) should not be deleted from the regulations, since such a deletion would diminish GSA ability to perform its oversight responsibility effectively. GAO also recommended that the legislation be revised to restrict the use of membership in any type of ADPE supplier's user group as an evaluation factor in an ADPE solicitation. The regulation should also be revised to contain at least a reference to a simplified, alternate documentation procedure contained in an attachment to a temporary regulation.