Arlington, Va. (Sept. 22, 2020) The Professional Services Council (PSC) today welcomed the extension of Section 3610 of the CARES Act (P. L. 116-136) in H.R. 8319, Continuing Appropriations Act 2021 and Other Extensions Act, released yesterday.   

In a September 10, 2020, letter to Congressional Leaders, PSC urged Congress to extend Section 3610, noting that it has been quietly and effectively working as intended across the federal government while staying within available funding.
 
“It is crucial that the House and Senate extend this vital provision to ensure that federal agencies retain the contractor workforce they need to meet their mission needs,” said David Berteau, PSC President and CEO. “Retaining skilled employees is strategically sound and financially smart. This extension will help companies preserve key talent that has taken many years to recruit, train, and clear.”

Originally set to sunset on September 30, 2020, if H.R. 8319 is enacted, the Section 3610 authority will remain available through December 11, 2020. 

“This extension requires no additional funding and is applicable government-wide, not just for national security.  It is critical to have it if we need it to maintain essential contractor support while work plans continue to change in response to COVID-19,” said Berteau. "We look forward to the passage of the Continuing Resolution followed quickly by the president's signature to enact it into law."

PSC expressed gratitude for the many Senators and Members of Congress who have supported this issue with the foresight to ensure the authority is in place when it is needed.  

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