R45080National Defense

Government Contract Bid Protests In Brief: Analysis of Legal Processes and Recent Developments

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: July 2026

January 19, 2018

Summary

Suppressed Summary –Terms for CRS Search Engine

Procurement

Government contract

Bid protest

Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)

Competition in Contracting Act of 1984 (CICA)

U.S. Court of Federal Claims (COFC)

Government Accountability Office (GAO)

Automatic stay

Procuring agency

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Note: CRS reports are prepared for Members of Congress and their staffs. This summary is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.

This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.