What happens if a contracting officer receives a protest after the contract has been awarded?

When a contracting officer receives a protest after the contract has been awarded, the correct course of action is that the contract may be suspended until the resolution of the protest. This mechanism is in place to potentially ensure fairness in the procurement process and to allow for a thorough examination of the issues raised by the protest. The suspension serves to maintain the integrity of the procurement process, providing time for the protesting party to present their case and for the agency to evaluate the merits of the protest.

This protocol is critical because it allows the agency to address any serious concerns regarding the award decision before the contract is fully executed or performance begins, thereby minimizing potential disruptions and unintended consequences of an erroneous award. By ensuring that the contract may be suspended, it allows the agency to take appropriate action to review the situation and potentially reassess the award based on the findings related to the protest.

While other options suggest limitations on contract amendments, the necessity of submitting the case for outside evaluation, or implying that the contract remains in effect without regard for the protest, these do not capture the appropriate action typically taken upon the receipt of a protest after an award has been made. The option that reflects the correct procedural response to a protest aligns with the established regulatory framework governing protests in federal contracting.