Debarment and Suspension Revisited: Fewer Eggs in the Basket?

Date

1995

Authors

Shannon, Brian D.

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Catholic University Law Review

Abstract

This Article provides an analysis and assessment of the historical and continuing evolution of the procedures attendant with the debarment and suspension process. Part II of this Article recounts the early reports commissioned by the Administrative Conference of United States (ACUS). Part III focuses on the evolution of the current procedures for both procurement and non-procurement debarment and suspension activities. It analyzes the key differences between those procedures and the difficulties in resolving these differences. Part IV reviews significant court decisions that influenced the evolution of government-wide debarment and suspension regulations, such as due process standards and the doctrine of exhaustion of administrative remedies. Part V of this Article questions whether greater process such as post-deprivation hearings for contractors facing debarment or suspension should be provided and concludes that the existing regulations provide adequate due process. Notwithstanding the fundamental fairness of the regulations, Part VI of this Article argues that a lack of uniformity in implementing and apply it agency procedures exists. Specifically, Parts VII, VIII, and IX address respectively the lack of uniformity concerning the period of debarment, the mitigating factors agencies consider when imposing debarment or suspension of contractors, and the punitive nature with which agencies are imposing debarments. This Article concludes that although some debarment and suspension regulations are not implemented or applied uniformly, on balance the current regulations are fair and reasonable and do not warrant revision.

Description

Keywords

Debarment, Suspension

Citation

44 Cath. U. L. Rev. 363