Associations call for Section 3610 extension

By Marjorie Censer / February 26, 2021 at 2:37 PM

Nearly a dozen associations are calling on congressional leaders to extend Section 3610, a provision in COVID-19 relief legislation that allowed reimbursement for contractors who keep their employees in a "ready state."

In the new letter, sent yesterday, the associations say the provision, which is set to expire March 31, has been a "key element of support for thousands of government contractors."

"The need for the authority, however, has not expired," the letter reads. "We urge you to extend this critical support provision that allows federal agencies to best manage their total workforce during this ongoing pandemic."

The associations argue the United States remains in a declared national emergency.

"Access to government facilities and remote work options continue to face uncertainties and frequent changes," the letter states. "Until agencies allow all contractors back to their worksites and we are past the need for quarantines shutting down workspaces, Section 3610 continues to be a critical tool for retaining highly skilled workers supporting operations across the government."

The letter was signed by the American Council of Engineering Companies, the Aerospace Industries Association, the Associated General Contractors of America, the Center for Procurement Advocacy, the Computing Technology Industry Association, the Information Technology Industry Council, the Intelligence and National Security Alliance, the National Defense Industrial Association, the Professional Services Council, the Security Industry Association and the Shipbuilders Council of America.

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