The Security Industry Association (SIA), Alexandria, Va., confirms a new interim rule that expands state and local government access to electronic security products and services offered through the GSA (General Services Administration) Schedules Program. Under the GSA Schedules (also referred to as Multiple Award Schedules and Federal Supply Schedules) Program, GSA establishes long-term government-wide contracts with commercial firms to provide access to commercial supplies and services that can be ordered directly from GSA Schedule contractors.

SIA’s Government Relations Committee has led the electronic security industry’s effort to expand “cooperative purchasing” — which opens up new business opportunities for SIA members and industry suppliers.

“This new GSA rule…will essentially increase the potential number of state and local customers who will buy security products and services through the GSA Schedules Program,” said Donald Erickson, SIA director of government relations.

Under this rule, products and services will receive increased visibility before state and local governments who will get the benefits of federal prices deemed fair and reasonable. Of particular significant to SIA members is a provision of the GSA rule that provides for “advanced purchasing” which allows state and local governments to acquire products and services before a disaster or terrorist attack takes place.