In a recent decision by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Hearings and Appeals (OHA), the Size Appeal of Secise, LLC, SBA No. SIZ-6337 (Feb. 19, 2025) clarified an important exception to the general rule for determining a firm’s size status. The ruling addressed the meaning of “offer” under the SBA’s 180-day rule, a key factor in determining whether a firm remains eligible for a small business set-aside contract following a merger, sale, or acquisition.
The Case at a Glance
Under SBA regulations, a firm’s size is generally determined as of the date of its initial offer, which certain exceptions. Relevant to this case, there is an important exception: if a firm undergoes a merger, sale, or acquisition after submitting its proposal, it must recertify its size and socioeconomic status for pending proposals. If the transaction results in the firm being other than small or losing its applicable socioeconomic status, its eligibility for award depends on the timing of the transaction:
- If the transaction occurs more than 180 days after offer submission, the firm remains eligible for award.
- If the transaction occurs within 180 days of offer submission, the firm is no longer eligible for award.
The central question in this case was whether the term “offer” referred to the initial offer or the final offer submitted after discussions and proposal revisions.
SBA’s Interpretation of the 180-Day Rule
Secise, LLC protested Sabre Systems’ award, arguing that Sabre was acquired by private equity firm CM Equity Partners within 180 days of submitting its final proposal revision, and therefore should have been deemed ineligible. However, the SBA Area Office dismissed the protest, holding that the correct interpretation of the rule is that the 180-day period runs from the date of the initial offer, not the final proposal revision.
OHA’s Affirmation: The Importance of the Initial Offer Date
On appeal, OHA upheld the Area Office’s decision, reinforcing that the “offer” referenced in the 180-day rule means the initial offer, including price, and not any subsequent revisions. This ruling has significant implications for small businesses:
- Final Proposal Revisions Do Not Reset the 180-Day Clock: Once an initial offer is submitted, any later modifications or updates to the proposal do not affect the 180-day calculation.
- Predictability for Offerors: Small businesses can rely on their size status at the time of their initial offer, providing more certainty when engaging in mergers or acquisitions (M&A).
- Regulatory Interpretation Matters: The decision highlights the importance of clear regulatory definitions and could prompt further discussion on whether the rule should explicitly reference initial versus final offers.
Takeaways for Government Contractors
For small businesses competing in the federal marketplace, this ruling underscores the importance of:
- Understanding the 180-Day Rule’s Application: A firm’s eligibility for small business awards following a merger or acquisition depends on the transaction’s timing relative to the initial offer.
- Strategic Business Planning: Firms considering a sale or acquisition must be mindful of their proposal submission dates to assess the impact on eligibility.
- Staying Proactive in Compliance: Engaging legal and contracting professionals can help businesses navigate size and socioeconomic status regulations effectively.
Final Thoughts
This case serves as a crucial lesson for government contractors. The SBA’s interpretation of the 180-day rule provides clarity but also raises important considerations for businesses undergoing structural changes. As mergers and acquisitions continue to shape the competitive landscape, firms must stay informed and proactive in their compliance strategies.
If you have questions about this decision or recertification in the context of M&A, please contact Sam Finnerty or another member of PilieroMazza’s Government Contracts Group.
