R23-4-4. Causes for Suspension/Debarment and Procedure

(1)(a) The causes for debarment and procedures for suspension/debarment are found in Sections 63G-6-804 through 63G-6-806, as well as Section 63A-5-208(8).

(b) Pursuant to subsection 63G-6-804(2)(e), a pattern and practice by a state contractor to not properly pay its subcontractors may be determined by the Director to be so serious and compelling as to affect responsibility as a state contractor and therefore may be a cause for debarment.

(c) A pattern and practice by a subcontractor to not honor its bids or proposals may be a cause for debarment.

(2) The procedures for suspension/debarment are as follows:

(a) The director, after consultation with the using agency and the Attorney General, may suspend a person from consideration for award of contracts for a period not to exceed three months if there is probable cause to believe that the person has engaged in any activity which may lead to debarment. If an indictment has been issued for an offense which would be a cause for debarment, the suspension, at the request of the Attorney General, shall remain in effect until after the trial of the suspended person.

(b) The person involved in the suspension and possible debarment shall be given written notice of the division's intention to initiate a debarment proceeding. The using agency and the Attorney General will be consulted by the director and may attend any hearing.

(c) The person involved in the suspension and debarment will be provided the opportunity for a hearing where he may present relevant evidence and testimony. The director may establish a reasonable time limit for the hearing.

(d) The director, following the hearing on suspension and debarment shall promptly issue a written decision, if it is not settled by written agreement.

(e) The written decision shall state the specific reasons for the action taken, inform the person of his right to judicial or administrative review, and shall be mailed or delivered to the suspended or debarred person.

(f) The debarment shall be for a period as set by the Director, but shall not exceed three years.

(g) Notwithstanding any part of this rule, the Director may appoint a person or person(s) to review the issues regarding the suspension or debarment as a recommending authority to the Director.