65--Proficiency Testing: ERI Custom Database Proficiency Test using Whatman Easicollect System and Cottaon Buccal Swabs.

The Mission and Installation Contracting Command at Fort Gordon, GA, plans to negotiate and award a sole-source contract with the Serological Research Institute (SERI) located in Richmond, CA. SERI holds the exclusive patent for certain specific proficiency tests required by the government and is the only provider approved by ASCLD/LAB for the entire range of these custom tests. The contract involves obtaining a unique proficiency test that uses body fluids and substrates tailored to the client's specifications, delivered through the Whatman Easicollect System and cotton buccal swabs. Given SERI's exclusive capability, no other ASCLD/LAB accredited providers can supply such custom testing at this time. This procurement falls under NAICS code 541380 and will be conducted as a non-competitive, sole-source award in accordance with the authority provided by 10 USC 2304(c)(1), which allows contracting only with a single responsible source. The government intends to proceed under Simplified Acquisition Procedures and commercial acquisition rules as stipulated in FAR parts 12 and 13. The notice explicitly states that this action is not a solicitation for competitive proposals and no solicitation will be issued. Potential interested parties must provide convincing evidence that competition would be beneficial by a specified deadline; otherwise, the award will be made without further notice. The decision to forego competition rests solely with the government.