DOS - AUD-MERO-21-43 - 7

OIG recommends that the Bureau of Administration, Office of the Procurement Executive (OPE), strengthen its review and approval process and oversight of noncompetitive contract actions awarded, based on Federal Acquisition Regulation 6.302-2, “Unusual and compelling urgency,” related to circumstances permitting other than full and open competition. OPE should put in place controls to ensure those actions are not excessive, such as enforcement of time limitations on the duration of the use of these actions, and use appropriate rationales, which exclude lack of advanced planning. In addition, OPE should provide training, as appropriate, to officials in the review process to ensure controls are followed.