PSC Applauds Passage of COVID Relief Legislation Key contractor retention provision and technology modernization funding among PSC top priorities

Arlington, Va. (March 10, 2021) The Professional Services Council (PSC) welcomes today’s House passage of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (H.R. 1319). This legislation, which now goes to the president for signature, will help address some of the continuing impacts of COVID-19.

PSC is particularly pleased that two key priorities for which it advocated are in the final bill. These include an extension through September of Section 3610, an essential provision for retaining key federal contractor personnel, and $1 billion for the Technology Modernization Fund (TMF) for technology modernization and cybersecurity. 

“The overwhelming bipartisan majority vote in the Senate for this provision indicates its vital importance. Section 3610, which requires no additional funds to be extended, makes sure that agencies across the federal government will keep access to skilled and trusted workers needed to meet their needs,” said PSC’s President and CEO, David Berteau. 

“In addition, both pandemic impacts and recent cyber events clearly underscore the need for additional technology modernization across the board. Legacy systems need faster replacement to bolster security and to support post-vaccine work processes as they evolve. These resources provide a boost, but more will be needed,” Berteau continued. “We look forward to the president’s swift signature on this bill and move forward rapidly on both of these provisions.” 

“PSC also urges Congress to consider additional modernization efforts in future legislation, to improve efficiencies, enhance cyber security, and ensure the government can deliver better services to the American people long after the pandemic,” Berteau stated.

A PDF of the release can be found here. 


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