What is debarment?

DES is authorized to fine or debar contractors under Revised Code of Washington 39.26.200.

Debarment is a process by which a contractor, individual, or other entity is prohibited from submitting a bid, having a bid considered, or entering into a state contract during a period of time specified in a debarment order.

Vendor debarment is not a punishment, but a procedure to ensure that state-funded business is conducted legally with responsible parties, maintaining the integrity of the state’s procurement process.

The authority to levy fines or debar businesses or individuals is based on the principle that the state should not conduct business with any company or person that practices serious unethical or illegal conduct, or has breached a public trust by engaging in dishonest practices in government contracting.

How do I refer a vendor for debarment?

• Read the instructions.
• Complete the Debarment Referral Form
• Save the completed form and submit it one of two ways:

1. Send an email to debarment@des.wa.gov with the completed form attached.
2. Or
3. Print a completed form and mail it to:
   Department of Enterprise Services
   Debarment Office
   1500 Jefferson St. SE
   MS 41466
   Olympia, WA 98504-1466

Other information

• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about debarment and the referral process
• List of debarred vendors - No debarments are in effect at this time.
• Attorney General Consumer Protection Division: Enforces the Consumer Protection Act (RCW 19.86) to keep the Washington marketplace free of unfair and deceptive practices. More information . . .
• Washington Administrative Code: Codifies executive branch agency regulations. Chapter 200-305 covers debarment. More information . . .
• Whistleblower Protection: The Whistleblower Act enables state employees to report suspected improper governmental action. More information . . .
• Labor and Industries: Contractors not allowed to bid on public works projects. More information . . .