Trade organizations call on Congress to assist government contractors

Ten trade organizations today sent a letter to congressional leaders seeking language in pending relief legislation that will help government contractors.

The letter says "there has been inconsistent federal agency guidance and direction as to the treatment of contractors" as the coronavirus outbreak continues.

"We urge you to include language in the pending relief legislation to encourage the use of flexible work solutions, including telework and virtual work environments, for contractors, as appropriate," the document reads. "Moreover, as state and local governments consider further restrictions on business operations, we urge an exemption when appropriate for employees performing work deemed essential for national security, including but not limited to defense, intelligence, and aerospace development and manufacturing."

Additionally, the letter calls on the legislation to require the Office of Management and Budget to provide guidance to federal contracting officers "to provide equitable adjustments to contractors who are unable to access the federal facility required to perform their duties."

The letter provides draft language for the legislation.

The document was signed by the American Council of Engineering Companies, Associated General Contractors of America, the Center for Procurement Advocacy, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Commercial Spaceflight Federation, the CompTIA Information Technology Industry Council, the Intelligence and National Security Alliance, the National Defense Industrial Association and the Professional Services Council.