PSC urges extension of Section 3610

In a new letter, the head of the Professional Services Council is calling on Congress to extend a legislative provision that allows the government to reimburse contractors unable to work but kept in a "ready state."

The July 15 letter, signed by David Berteau and sent to congressional leaders, states that when the provision was put in place, "there was no clear estimation or understanding of the duration or magnitude of the impact on COVID-19 on federal government operations and on the many thousands of contractors whose support is vital to those operations."

At the time, the legislation indicated Section 3610 of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act would expire Sept. 30.

"Today, it is apparent that such impact will clearly extend beyond September 30, and it is not possible to predict how long such authority will be needed," Berteau writes. "I write to request your urgent action to extend this authority until December 31, 2020, or the expiration of the coronavirus public health emergency, whichever comes later."

He argues this provision is "essential to preserving the cohort of highly skilled workers and key personnel, many with high-level security clearances, that has taken decades to assemble" and calls on Congress to use "the first available legislative vehicle" to extend Section 3610.

Earlier this week, the Aerospace Industries Association also called for the provision to be extended through the end of the year.