[Protests of IHS Solicitation for Security Guard Services]

A firm protested an Indian Health Service (IHS) solicitation for security guard services, contending that the requirement for performance and payment bonds unduly restricted competition by limiting Indian-owned companies from bidding on multiple solicitations. GAO held that IHS reasonably imposed the bonds, since IHS was concerned about ensuring uninterrupted service because it has experienced interrupted service due to unpaid contractor employees in the past. Accordingly, the protest was denied.