On February 15, 2024, USAC provided guidance to applicants regarding “unresponsive bids, ‘SPAM’ bids, and ‘robobids’” received in response to E-rate Form 470 procurements. Noting that applicants can disqualify bids if disqualification criteria are stipulated in the Form 470 or in an RFP, USAC provides sample language that can be used for this purpose:
“SPAM and/or robotic responses will not be considered valid bid responses and will be disqualified from consideration.”
In June 2023, the Federal Communications Commission issued a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking which addressed, in part, the increasing problem of Form 470 applicants receiving spam or automated responses to their procurements. As of February 16, 2024, no E-rate rule changes have been made on the topic.
USAC’s guidance may be viewed here.
