Determination That VA Specifications Were Unduly Restrictive

Two firms requested that GAO reconsider a decision affirming an earlier procurement ruling. The original judgment held that the Veterans Administration (VA) specifications for a shelless laundry wash system were unduly restrictive of competition. In the prior decision, GAO held that the government's minimum needs could have been met with the automated washer/extractor system offered by another firm. The decision to which the two firms took exception was issued on March 12, 1979. GAO Bid Protest Procedures provide that requests for reconsideration be filed within 10 days after reasonable knowledge of the basis for reconsideration. Since no such request was received within the established time limit, GAO declined any request to reopen the case. VA has recognized washer/extractors as equal to shelless washers and VA specifications now provide for offering either system.