In its report to Congress on annual suspension and debarment activity for fiscal year 2020, the Interagency Suspension and Debarment Committee found that S&D activity increased slightly from FY2019, but were still lower than recent years.
Agencies reported 1,256 debarments, up from 1,199 in 2019. However, this was the second lowest number since 2010. There were also fewer proposed debarments, with 1,317 in 2020 compared to 1,437 in 2019. Agencies suspended 415 entities, down from 722 in 2019 and the lowest number since the ISDC began reporting. About half of agencies contributing to the report noted an increase in their activity, while others declined. Across all agencies, the use of alternatives to suspension and debarment exceeded the average over the last 12 years.
ISDC attributed much of the decrease to the COVID-19 pandemic, as mail service was delayed, travel was restricted, and court proceedings were postponed. The committee also noted a significant increase in the total number of voluntary exclusions, which more than doubled, and an increase in declinations and administrative agreements.
