WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge, Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), Chairman of the Committee on Governmental Affairs, and the Committee’s Ranking Member Joe Lieberman (D-CT) urged the secretary to reach beyond the Washington Beltway as the new Department of Homeland Security begins purchasing information, technology, and other resources.
"As you begin the process of coordinating the cost-effective procurement and integration of key systems, such as those related to information management and research and development, we urge you to take steps to utilize all of our nation's resources, especially those outside the Washington Beltway," the senators wrote in their March 13 letter. "We also offer our help in making sure that the department implements significant safeguards against fraud, waste and abuse in the procurement process."
As the department’s procurement process moves forward, Collins said that she wants to ensure that the department purchases the best products at the most affordable prices through nationwide competition.
Until formal procurement procedures are in place, the Department of Homeland Security is not accepting solicitations for products and services. For now, potential vendors and contractors should contact the appropriate affiliated agencies.
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