The Mission Essential Group
B-422698.2

• Mission Essential challenged a task order solicitation issued by the Air Force, alleging the lowest price, technically acceptable (“LPTA”) evaluation scheme violated DFARS 215.101-2-70.
• The DFARS provision establishes eight criteria, each of which must be met in order for a solicitation to employ an LPTA methodology.
• It also requires that agencies “avoid, to the maximum extent practicable,” the use of LPTA procedures for procurements of “knowledge-based professional services.”
• Mission Essential alleged the Air Force failed to meet at least three of the eight criteria allowing for LPTA and that LPTA procedures must be avoided given the type of services sought.
• GAO sustained the protest, recommending the Air Force revise the solicitation to comply with DFARS 215.101-2-70 and request revised proposals.