Summary: GAO presented its comments in support of H.R. 2293 which amends the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act. GAO recommended that provisions requiring require Federal agencies to increase the use of full and open competition be expanded and strengthened by: (1) requiring regular advance procurement planning and market research; (2) limiting restrictive designs and conditions in solicitations; (3) establishing more than one production source for newly designed products whenever feasible; (4) specifying those limited circumstances permitting sole-source procurement; and (5) assigning agency responsibilities for removing other barriers to competition. GAO cited the need for a professionally competent procurement work force and suggested that intern training programs be established. GAO also recommended that, since the Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) is implementing a uniform procurement systems under the President's Executive Order, it would be appropriate to restore its regulatory authority, which should include procurement system reform. Regarding agency management responsibilities, GAO suggested that: (1) clear lines of authority, accountability, and responsibility be established; (2) a high level agency official who is responsible for management of each agency's system be designated; (3) direct access to the head of the major element served by agency procurement officials as well as equality with organizational counterparts be provided. GAO also suggested that a new OFPP role be recognized in statute to provide leadership and assistance to agencies and to develop innovative procurement concepts. Finally GAO recommended that the agency be given more than a 3-year extension.
