In what has become an unprecedented time for companies and their employees, adjusting to a “new normal” of working away from the office has been challenging for many as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. As companies begin to look ahead and plan for a return to some normalcy, continuing to practice safe social distancing measures in the workplace will be key to providing a safe and efficient workplace environment. This includes continuing to keep a 6-foot space between individuals and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as face masks. Differentiating between the types of masks and the protection they provide is important for companies to know before bringing employees back into the office.

As the COVID-19 virus continues to spread across the globe, the United States government turns to GSA Schedule contractors to help prevent, contain, combat, and recover from the effects of the Coronavirus. Because of the large variety of products and services offered through the GSA Multiple Award Schedule, there are multiple opportunities for contractors to assist government agencies in fighting this growing pandemic. Particularly, companies and organizations with 3D printing capabilities can address one of the most important and immediate needs to fight the Coronavirus outbreak: protective gear. 3D printing has been recommended as a solution to the mask supply shortage, and GSA recently sent an email asking GSA contractors to respond with any 3D printing capabilities that can be used to address the COVID-19 relief efforts.

The world of government contracting provides ample opportunities for businesses to work and sell directly with government institutions across the board. This is done through the General Services Administration, a government agency that provides centralized procurement for federal purchasers with cost-effective, high-quality products and services from commercial vendors. These products and services cover a large range of business arenas – from information technology to furniture and everything in between. Although working with GSA can be profitable, it is not a simple process. Companies interested in participating in this potentially beneficial government program often turn to experts to help them navigate through specific requirements needed to qualify, which is where GSA consultants come in. GSA Consulting covers a large area of services that are associated with acquiring a GSA Contract.

On August 13, 2019, a new interim rule instituted by GSA went into law that will have a direct effect on many GSA Contact Schedule holders. The new law will implement section 889 (a)(1)(A) of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2019. The specific wording of the law, via Acquisition.gov, states: