Loser-Pays Rule Raises the Ire of Defense Contract Advocates

  • Industry group calls requirement on GAO protests unnecessary
  • Annual authorization bill sets pilot program to start in 2020
Photographer: USAF/Getty Images North America
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U.S. defense contractors are protesting a pilot program that would require losers in Pentagon competitions to pay the Defense Department’s costs if they challenge a decision and fail to overturn it.

The Professional Services Council, an industry group that represents contractors, opposes the “loser-pays” requirement as “both premature and unnecessary,” said Alan Chvotkin, its executive vice president and counsel.