MAIL BAG: WHAT TO DO TO PREPARE FOR A SHUTDOWN
Loyal reader Darren Stevens writes, “My advertising firm has a federal contract. Our program manager said not to worry about doing work during any shut down. He promises we’ll be paid. Will we?” Very timely question, Mr. Stevens. With the possibility of a shutdown it’s important not to become bewitched by customer promises. Only work on “essential” contracts, or those fully-funded by money not subject to the appropriations process, can continue during a shut-down. Only your Contracting Officer (not the COR, nor the PM) can make an “essential” determination. Ask for such a determination on your contracts now. While a substantial portion of the government may actually remain open during a “shut down” you need to get questions answered in writing about how your contracts, personnel and product shipments might be effected. Making sure your company is prepared before a shutdown happens is nothing to wrinkle your nose at.