“GAO was asked to review VA’s implementation of Veterans First since the Supreme Court decision. Among other things, this report assesses the extent to which (1) changes occurred in procurement obligations to veteran-owned small businesses from fiscal years 2014 through 2017; (2) VA has encountered any challenges in implementing Veterans First policies; and (3) VA has mechanisms to oversee contractor compliance with subcontracting limitations…”
“GAO found that the percentage of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) obligations set aside for veteran-owned small businesses under its Veterans First program was higher in 2017—the first full year following the 2016 Supreme Court decision—than in previous years. In its decision, the court clarified that VA contract competitions must be restricted to these businesses if they meet two criteria: (1) the contracting officer reasonably expects that at least two such businesses will submit offers, and (2) the award can be made at a fair and reasonable price and best value to the government. This has become known as the “VA Rule of Two.” VA created a new policy for implementing Veterans First following the 2016 decision…”
“GAO is making six recommendations, including that VA provide more targeted training for contracting officers, assess whether training should be mandatory, ensure required clauses are included in contracts, and improve oversight of compliance with subcontracting limitations…” Read the full report here.
Source: VA Needs to Address Implementation Challenges and Strengthen Oversight of Subcontracting Limitations – October 24, 2018. GAO.gov.
